Flap Complications After LASIK Eye Surgery

It is uncommon to experience flap complications after LASIK eye surgery. Only about 2 percent of patients have noted complications such as irregular, incomplete, or an excessively thin or torn flap. The treatment and long-term effects of these complications depend on the type and severity. The majority of flap complications after LASIK eye surgery can be resolved without a loss of vision, although healing may be delayed.

Complications of LASIK Surgery

Flap Complications After LASIK Eye Surgery: An Overview

Flap complications after

LASIK eye surgery are uncommon. Studies have reported that these complications occur in 1 to 2 out of 100 patients. Complications can include irregular, incomplete, or an excessively thin or torn flap.

The treatment and long-term effects of flap complications depend on the type and severity of the problem. In most cases, these complications can be resolved without a loss of vision. Although additional procedures may be required, healing may be delayed and vision correction may or may not be achieved.

For example, a free cap occurs when, instead of producing a flap, the cornea is completely cut. Surgery can continue, but in this case, stitches may have to be placed to hold the cap in place for proper healing.

Another complication is when an "incomplete flap" is created. In this case, the surgery is stopped and the flap is replaced. Three months later, the surgery can be performed as planned, nearly always with an excellent result.

If a flap complication does occur, your doctor will make you aware of the specific complication, the treatment options, and the excepted outcomes with these treatments.