A past corneal scratch or injury can leave patients wondering if LASIK is still an option for vision correction. The answer depends on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the current health of the cornea. At Tersigni Vision, Dr. Steven Tersigni evaluates each patient’s unique eye history to determine if LASIK or another procedure is the safest choice. In this article, we’ll cover what factors are considered and how previous corneal issues can impact eligibility. Schedule a consultation with Tersigni Vision to find out if LASIK is right for you.
Does a past corneal scratch or injury mean LASIK is no longer possible?
If you’ve had a corneal scratch, abrasion, or other eye injury, it’s normal to worry you’ll be told LASIK is no longer an option. The truth is, a minor abrasion that healed fully and left your cornea smooth may not be a problem. But if there’s a scar or other damage—especially in the center of the cornea—it can make it harder for the laser to do its job and may increase your risk during eye surgery. Dr. Tersigni uses detailed corneal topography and other testing to check the shape, thickness, and clarity of your cornea so he can give you the most accurate answer for your situation. If there’s damage involving the lens, pupil, or retina, other vision correction procedures might give you better visual acuity and long-term results.
Why does the health of your cornea matter so much for LASIK safety?
LASIK works by creating a flap in the cornea and using a laser to reshape it for better focus. If a past eye injury left a scar, thinned the tissue, or caused an irregular surface, it can increase the risk of complications and affect how well you see afterward. Some patients also have lingering issues such as blurred vision, dry eye syndrome, or changes in tears that need attention before moving forward. A thorough ophthalmology exam can reveal any signs and symptoms—like inflammation, light sensitivity, or other visual perception changes—that might interfere with your surgery results. The goal is to protect your eye health and help you see as clearly and comfortably as possible.
How long should you wait after a recent corneal abrasion before considering LASIK?
If your corneal abrasion or injury happened recently, your eye needs time to heal completely. This means no active infection, inflammation, or unstable vision before surgery is even considered. In some cases, the patient may be prescribed an antibiotic or eye drop to help prevent problems and reduce pain during healing. Taking this time also ensures your refractive surgery plan is based on accurate, stable measurements. Once your eye is fully healed, Dr. Tersigni can recheck your cornea and let you know if LASIK is safe—or if another option would be better.
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What are your options if LASIK isn’t right for you after an eye injury?
If a scar or other changes to your cornea make LASIK too risky, there are still great ways to improve your focus and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lens wear:
- Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK): Reshapes the cornea without creating a flap, making it safer for certain eye conditions.
- EVO ICL: Places a corrective lens inside the eye without altering the cornea, and it’s reversible.
- Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): Similar to cataract surgery, replaces the natural lens to correct vision and prevent future cataract development.
- SMILE Eye Surgery: Smaller-incision or surface-based laser treatments that may work for eyes with certain medical histories.
An optometry evaluation will match the safest procedure to your vision goals, prescription, and overall health.
What signs should you watch for after a corneal injury if you’re thinking about LASIK?
Even years after an eye injury, it’s important to pay attention to any changes in your vision or comfort. Watch for blurred vision, sensitivity to light, worsening dry eye syndrome, or other changes in visual perception. These can be a sign of corneal damage or another condition that might require medication or even surgery before LASIK becomes an option. Acting quickly can protect your vision, prevent visual impairment, and reduce the risk of problems with future refractive surgery.
How can you find out if LASIK is still an option for you?
If you’ve had a corneal scratch, scar, or other eye injury, the best way to know if LASIK is possible is with a detailed exam by Dr. Tersigni. He’ll explain your options, discuss potential risks, and help you choose a path that protects your eye health while aiming for the best possible result. Every patient’s situation is different, but with the right testing and plan, you may still be able to enjoy the freedom from glasses you’ve been hoping for. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward clear, confident vision.
source https://www.tersignivision.com/lasik/can-you-get-lasik-if-youve-had-a-corneal-scratch-or-injury/
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