FDA data show that, although approximately 12 million people have had LASIK in the past 10 years, only 140 complaints have been filed with the agency. The FDA is partnering with the National Eye Instituteand and U.S. Department of Defense on a large, multi-site prospective study on patient satisfaction and quality of life after LASIK.

The study will look at the change in quality of life and attempt to shed light on specific factors in patient satisfaction and dissatisfaction with the procedure. AllAboutVision.com will provide updates as research continues.

LASIK Safety Tips

These patients' stories are compelling reminders that with LASIK, like any other surgical procedure, the risks and benefits must be weighed. What can you do to stay on the right side of the statistics and avoid becoming one of the horror stories?

• Read more about LASIK, including questions to ask your surgeon, at www.allaboutvision.com/visionsurgery/.
• Get a second opinion before surgery.
• Don't feel pressured to sign paperwork in a rush. Take it home, read it carefully and ask the surgeon or staff about any concerns or questions.
• There are always risks in any surgical procedure. Carefully consider your own level of risk tolerance. 

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