LASIK Risks Explained — and How We Reduce Them
While LASIK is considered one of the safest and most effective elective procedures available, no surgery is completely without risk. Understanding the potential side effects and how those risks are minimized can help you feel more confident and informed.
At Holzman Laser Vision, serving patients from Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland, your safety and long-term vision health are our top priorities. Here’s what you need to know.
Common LASIK Side Effects (Most Are Temporary)
In the days or weeks after surgery, some patients experience:
- Dry eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Glare or halos at night
- Blurry vision during healing
- Mild discomfort or itching
These symptoms are usually temporary and part of the normal healing process. We provide thorough aftercare instructions and ongoing support to make your recovery as smooth as possible.
Rare but Serious LASIK Complications
While uncommon, more serious risks include:
- Infection
- Flap complications
- Overcorrection or under correction
- Regression (vision changes over time)
- Loss of visual quality (such as reduced contrast sensitivity)
This is why it’s so important to choose an experienced surgeon and undergo detailed pre-operative screening.
How We Minimize Risk at Holzman Laser Vision
1. Comprehensive Screening
We evaluate every patient thoroughly to make sure LASIK is the safest, most appropriate choice. This includes advanced diagnostic imaging, corneal thickness measurements, and detailed health history reviews.
2. Advanced Technology
Dr. Holzman uses the most current and precise laser platforms, including wavefront-guided and topography-guided systems. These allow for ultra-customized treatments that reduce variability and risk.
3. Surgeon Experience
With over 95,000 procedures performed, Dr. Holzman brings unmatched precision and surgical confidence to every case, especially for patients throughout the greater D.C. metro area. His reputation for safety and outcomes is one of the reasons patients travel from across the region for LASIK.
4. Transparent Expectations
We explain every step of the process, including possible side effects, enhancement policies, and how long your vision results are expected to last. Our goal is to equip you with knowledge, not just results.
5. Personalized Aftercare
Each patient receives a customized post-operative plan and is seen for multiple follow-ups to monitor healing. We’re available for any concerns — even years after your procedure.
Is LASIK Right for You?
Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK. We’ll only recommend it if your eyes are healthy and your prescription is stable. For some patients, PRK, ICL or another option like Refractive Lens Exchange may be safer and more effective.
Related Resources
Have Questions About LASIK Risks?
We’re here to help you make an informed choice. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Holzman and get honest answers, professional recommendations, and a personalized plan tailored to your vision and health.
