How safe is LASIK?

San Francisco, Oakland & San Jose, California

LASIK is considered to be a very safe procedure with an overall complication rate that is well below that of other elective surgical procedures. While there are risks involved, seeking out a LASIK center that puts your safety first can make your vision correction experience a very positive one and ensure you get great results.

The Eye Surgery Education Council states that the incidence of excimer laser ablation complications is comparatively very low. They also address how the Wavefront mapping system can improve safety: "Recent advances in laser technology, called Wavefront custom ablations, hold the promise of treating these conditions and alleviating the visual problems associated with them."

Vision-threatening complications are extremely rare. Please visit our LASIK complications page to read about the risks involved with vision correction.

To minimize your risks, good LASIK patients should exhibit these characteristics:

• Stable myopia under 10 diopters
• Over 18 years of age
• Absence of eye diseases such as glaucoma, keratoconus, or diabetic retinopathy
• Stable prescription for at least one year prior to surgery
• Sufficient corneal thickness
• Should not be pregnant

Technology can go a long way in keeping you safe from unexpected complications. As vision correction technology continues to advance, our industry is finding new and different ways to protect the patient. With innovations like Wavefront mapping and IntraLase flap creation, you can achieve a level of correction never before possible - and get there with fewer risks! Choosing a LASIK surgeon with experience is also important when it comes to maximizing your results and reducing your risks.

Schedule a free consultation with a San Francisco LASIK surgeon to find out if you fit the LASIK guidelines.

Learn more about eliminating your dependence on glasses and contacts with the safe and effective LASIK procedure. Call or email San Francisco's Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley for a comprehensive and informative consultation.

1.800.725.0740