Does Lasik Surgery Cause Blindness?

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Our short answer:
No, it would be extremely rare.

LASIK surgery is very safe and effective.1 According to a recent study an average of 95.4% of patients were satisfied with their outcome after LASIK surgery, making it one of the most successful surgeries performed.

There have been over 20 million LASIK surgeries2 performed in the United States with a success rate of improving vision to at least 20/40 and patient satisfaction of 99%. More than 90% of patients reported achieving vision rates of 20/20 or better!3 And in 2021, the American Refractive Surgery Council stated that there has never been a case where LASIK was the primary cause of blindness.4 Going blind because of Lasik would be extremely rare.

Like any surgery, LASIK carries risks of side effects, the unintended results of medical treatment. These are usually mild, temporary, go away on their own or can be managed successfully. Severe complications can occur, but they are very uncommon.

One of the best ways to understand and reduce risks of LASIK is to choose a surgeon with deep knowledge and expertise in performing LASIK surgeries, who uses current technology and importantly, explains and recommends the right procedure for you as an individual. Ask lots of questions.

At Clearview, we - Dr. Sandy Feldman, our doctors, and the whole team - strive to make you feel comfortable and trust that we will do everything possible to minimize risks and care for you at all stages of your LASIK journey - before, during and after the surgery. It is our passion to change our patients lives by giving you great vision!

 

  1. Kerry D Solomon , Luis E Fernández de CastroHelga P SandovalJoseph M BiberBrian GroatKristiana D NeffMichelle S YingJohn W FrenchEric D DonnenfeldRichard L LindstromJoint LASIK Study Task Force. Ophthalmology 2009 Apr;116(4):691-701. LASIK world literature review: quality of life and patient satisfaction
  2. https://www.statista.com/statistics/271478/number-of-lasik-surgeries-in-the-us/
  3. Helga P. Sandoval, Eric D. Donnenfeld, Thomas Kohnen, Richard L. Lindstrom, ... Kerry D. Solomon. Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery 2016, August;42:1224-1234. Modern laser in situ keratomileusis outcomes.
  4. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/lasik-complication-rate-latest-facts/

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LASIK is a medical procedure with risks involved and isn't right for everyone. Individual results may vary. Talk to your eye doctor and consider both the risks and benefits before having the procedure. Additional information can be found at our website or at fda.gov. the material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider.