Laser Vision Correction Problems


Laser Eye Surgery in the UK

To find out whether you are suitable for laser eye surgery or to get a quote, please complete the form on the right hand side and then click the send button. An advisor will contact you.


Laser Vision CorrectionAm I suitable for Laser Vision Correction?

If you are considering laser vision correction (also known as 'laser eye surgery', the first thing you need to find out is whether you are suitable for the treatment.  The best thing to do if considering the surgery is to book a consultation with a clinic. There are a lot of clinics throughout the UK, and it’s worth looking around for one your comfortable with. Most clinics do offer free consultations and this is the best way to see if the treatment is right for you. It is a personal choice whether you decide to go ahead with the surgery or not and many factors need to be considered including laser vision correction problems.

Health Issues & Laser Vision Correction Suitability

Even if you have health concerns that are not connected to your eyes, they still need to be considered.  For example, if you are diabetic, you may not be a suitable candidate.  As with all surgery, suitability depends on your overall health.

Lifestyle & Occupation

Some jobs specifically disallow certain forms of refractive surgery and if you engage in particularly robust contact sports, such as boxing, it may unadvisable.  Some jobs prohibit certain refractive procedures. This could be an issue with careers within the military as well as many others, so always check first.

Age

Often there is no upper age limit for laser surgery, as long as you are healthy although older patients may experience a longer healing period.  Younger people should try to hold off from having laser vision correction, because their eyes, just like the rest of their body, may still be growing meaning the surgery may need repeating in later years therefore costing twice as much.  Once eye development and vision have stabalised, laser vision correction can be considered. 

What are the types of Laser Vision Correction?

There are different types of laser vision correction.  Some clinics only offer two main types of laser vision correction, Lasik and Lasek.

Lasek is a procedure where the protective layer of the cornea is softened and folded to one side. Your particular prescription will then dictate what type of reshaping is done in the cornea. The corneas protective layer is then gently replaced and the procedure is complete.

Lasik is newer treatment where a blade is used to cut and lift the surface of the cornea. The laser procedure is the same as with LASEK, the cornea is then re-shaped in a way to help your particular needs for better vision.

However there is a third older option, offered at some surgeries called ‘PRK’ or ‘Photorefractive Keratectomy’. This type of surgery is a faster way of having the treatment carried out. Instead of lifting the flap of protective layer, with PRK the lasers simply blast though, making the procedure quicker. The difference is that Lasik patients experience lesser discomfort and they also get better vision, faster.  PRK is usually used for patients who have larger pupils and thinner corneas.  It can be painful while the top layer of cells, re-grow and this can be a problem for many people who have laser vision correction.

What is the Cost of Laser Vision Correction?

There is no doubt about it, laser vision correction can be expensive but when you consider the effects poor vision can cause it seems worth it, to lots of people. The down side is that laser vision correction surgery, is that like any surgery, the results are not 100% guaranteed affective and there are problems associated with the surgery.

Clinics in the UK are charging prices ranging from a minimum of just under £1000 going all the way up to £4100. The treatments vary with each clinic and with each patients needs so just like anything else, it is advisable to shop around.

What are the Problems with Laser Vision Correction?

As with any surgical procedure there can be complications and its common sense to look around for a good surgeon. Choose a reputable clinic and read testimonials. But even with all that research a surgery with no complications cannot be guaranteed. 

Rare problems:

  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Double vision
  • Regression
  • Light sensitivity
  • Halos or other sight disturbances
  • Debris under the corneal flap
  • Dry eyes

These problems are not common and may not be permanent. After care plays a major part in avoiding any infection so it is important to listen to the advise given by your surgeon.  At the end of the day, laser vision correction is a type of surgery and risks are bound to be involved, the question you need to ask is, is it worth it to you? and how much will laser vision treatment change your life? and are you willing to accept the problems you may face with vision correction?

29th May 2009

<<<more laser eye surgery news


Laser Eye Surgery Enquiry Form

Complete this form if you would like information about laser eye surgery including costs & suitablity.