Is it safe to have laser eye surgery?

I had cataracts removed from both eyes and now the I am told that I need laser to clear up my vision. Is this a safe procedure?

3 answers to “Is it safe to have laser eye surgery?”

A: LASER Surgery to clear vision following cataract surgery

Cary M. Silverman, MD
By Cary M. Silverman, MD - New Jersey Ophthalmologist

During cataract surgery a membrane called the posterior capsule is left in the eye. The IOL is placed in front of this membrane. 20% of the time this membrane will become cloudy or wrinkled, causing a decrease in vision. This is called an "after cataract" or posterior capsule opacification (PCO). PCO... more

A: LASIK is safe after cataract surgery, in most cases

Jon Dishler, MD
By Jon Dishler, MD - Denver Ophthalmologist

You can have LASIK after cataract surgery in most cases, but it is important that the eye is well healed from the cataract procedure, that it was done with a small incision (phaco) and that an all laser approach is used since the eye pressure can be increased more with a microkeratome than with a femtosecond... more

A: Usually safe to have laser eye surgery

Steven Dell, MD
By Steven Dell, MD - Austin Ophthalmologist

LASIK is very commonly performed after cataract surgery to improve vision. It is generally regarded as safe, but slightly longer healing times may be encountered based on your age and general corneal health.

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