Thousands of people have had refractive surgery in the United States, most without complications. According to a study in the January 1999 issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, complications are rare in the use of LASIK for the correction of nearsightedness.

If you decide to have refractive surgery, be sure to make an informed decision. The most satisfied patient is one who has realistic expectations and a thorough understanding of the risks and possible complications of refractive surgery.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology offers these considerations for making your decision.

• Enhancement or re-treatment surgeries may be required to achieve your desired results.
• Fitting contact lenses may be difficult or impossible because of corneal changes following refractive surgery.
• Reading glasses may still be necessary for middle-aged and older adults. Refractive surgery does not alter the normal aging process of the eye. In fact, you may need reading glasses at an earlier age after refractive surgery.
• You may still need glasses or contacts to achieve your best vision even after refractive surgery.
• If you have specific occupational goals, check with your prospective employer about their regulations concerning refractive surgery.