If you've undergone radial keratotomy (RK) surgery, you're likely aware of its transformative potential in correcting refractive errors. However, like any surgical procedure, RK carries the risk of complications that may arise during the healing process or even years later. Understanding these complications and knowing how to navigate them is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcome for your vision. In this blog post, we'll delve into common complications following RK surgery, explore effective management strategies, and emphasize the importance of seeking expert care from experienced ophthalmologists, particularly in Dallas, Texas.
Understanding Common Complications
RK surgery involves making incisions in the cornea to flatten its shape and correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness or astigmatism. While RK was once a popular vision correction procedure, it has largely been replaced by more advanced techniques like LASIK due to its higher risk of complications. Some of the common complications associated with RK surgery include:
1. Overcorrection or Undercorrection: Changes in the cornea's shape can lead to overcorrection (resulting in farsightedness) or undercorrection (resulting in residual nearsightedness or astigmatism).
2. Irregular Astigmatism: Uneven healing of the corneal incisions may cause irregular astigmatism, leading to distorted or blurry vision.
3. Corneal Scarring: In some cases, RK incisions may result in corneal scarring, which can impair vision quality.
4. Refractive Instability: Vision may fluctuate or regress over time, necessitating further interventions or enhancements.
Effective Management Strategies
If you're experiencing complications following RK surgery, it's essential to seek timely evaluation and treatment from qualified eye care professionals. Depending on the nature and severity of the complications, specialty contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses or scleral lenses, can effectively correct vision problems resulting from RK surgery, including irregular astigmatism.
Expert Care in Dallas, Texas