Is LASIK Surgery Safe? (Expert Answers from Dr. Rajesh Kapoor)

LASIK surgery is widely used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Millions of procedures have been performed worldwide, yet many people still hesitate and ask a common question: Is LASIK surgery safe?

The answer is reassuring for most people, but it depends on correct patient selection, detailed eye evaluation, and experienced surgical care. Understanding how LASIK works and what its real risks are can help patients make informed decisions.

What exactly happens during LASIK surgery?

LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye. It does not alter the lens inside the eye. A laser is used to change the cornea’s curvature so that light entering the eye focuses properly on the retina, improving vision.

Medical research published through PubMed shows that LASIK has been extensively studied for both safety and effectiveness over the past several decades.

Is LASIK surgery safe according to medical research?

Clinical studies and peer-reviewed research supported by NIH indicate that LASIK is generally safe for appropriately selected patients.

For this reason, whether LASIK surgery is safe is best answered in the affirmative when modern technology and strict screening guidelines are followed.

Common side effects after LASIK surgery

Most side effects following LASIK surgery are temporary and improve as the eyes heal. These effects are well documented in medical literature.

Common short-term effects include:

Dry eyes
Mild discomfort or irritation
Light sensitivity
Glare or halos at night

Studies indexed on PubMed show that dry eye symptoms are the most frequently reported issue, but they usually improve within weeks to months with proper treatment.

Can LASIK surgery be reversed?

LASIK surgery permanently reshapes the cornea and cannot be reversed to its original shape. However, if minor vision changes occur later, enhancement procedures may be possible in selected cases.

This is why careful evaluation before LASIK surgery is essential. Long-term safety depends on choosing the right candidates rather than rushing into surgery.

What happens if LASIK surgery goes wrong?

Serious complications after LASIK surgery are uncommon. When problems do occur, they are usually mild and manageable, such as temporary dry eyes or under-correction of vision.

NIH-supported studies indicate that most complications are linked to improper patient selection rather than the procedure itself. This highlights the importance of comprehensive pre-surgical testing.

Can LASIK surgery cause blindness?

Permanent blindness due to LASIK surgery is extremely rare. Large-scale studies published in peer-reviewed journals report no significant increase in blindness rates when LASIK is performed on suitable candidates using modern laser systems.

Severe vision-threatening complications are uncommon and are typically associated with pre-existing eye conditions that should be identified during screening.

Can spectacle power increase after LASIK surgery?

LASIK surgery corrects existing refractive error, but it does not stop natural ageing changes in the eye. Some people may notice vision changes years later due to conditions such as presbyopia.

This does not mean the LASIK surgery failed. It reflects regular age-related changes that occur regardless of whether someone has had LASIK surgery.

Who may not be a good candidate for LASIK?

LASIK surgery is not suitable for everyone. Medical guidelines advise caution in people with:

Thin or irregular corneas
Severe dry eye disease
Progressive eye disorders
Certain autoimmune conditions

Dr. Rajesh Kapoor performs a detailed eye examination to determine whether LASIK surgery is safe and appropriate.

Why surgeon expertise matters

Research published on PubMed confirms better outcomes when LASIK surgery is performed by experienced surgeons using advanced diagnostic tools. Accurate corneal mapping and personalised treatment planning significantly reduce risk.

At Suruchi Eye Hospital, LASIK procedures are guided by Dr. Rajesh Kapoor, regarded by patients as one of the best LASIK eye surgeons for his careful screening and evidence-based approach. The focus remains on long-term eye health rather than quick eligibility.

Long-term safety and results of LASIK surgery

NIH-supported research shows that LASIK results remain stable for many years in most patients. While LASIK does not prevent the natural ageing of the eyes, it provides lasting vision improvement for suitable candidates.

Most patients report satisfaction with their vision when expectations are realistic and medical advice is followed.

Final thoughts

So, is LASIK surgery safe? Looking at the scientific evidence, we can say that LASIK is safe for the majority of patients. Advances in technology and strict screening have significantly reduced risks over time.

Making an informed decision is essential. At Suruchi Eye Hospital, Dr. Rajesh Kapoor educates and empowers his patients before they opt for LASIK surgery. This helps individuals decide whether LASIK surgery is right for them.