Can a LASIK flap be displaced years after the operation?

Doctor's Answer

Hi,

Previous Lasik flaps created using a micro-keratome would be relatively easier to dislodge / lift as compared to contemporary flaps created using an all-laser / femto-laser platform which is the standard of care today.

However, to put things into perspective. It is very difficult for you to casually dislodge your flap (e.g. by your baby scratching your eye). The closest I have ever come to seeing anybody ever dislodge their flap was a colleague reporting an isolated case of their cat who had scratched their eye and successfully managed to lift the edge of their microkeratome flap. I have to emphasize that this is exceedingly difficult to occur by chance, and would probably only have occurred due to the sharp claws on the cat, by sheer misfortune that the cat had managed to find the flap interface, and that the flap was previously created using a microkeratome (hence easier to lift).

Otherwise, such an incident occurring is exceedingly difficult. If in doubt you should get a regular review with your Ophthalmologist who would be able to examine you and allay any fears that you may have!

ESG

Ask any health question for free

I’m not so sure about a procedure...

Ask Icon Ask a Question

Join Human

Sign up now for a free Human account to get answers from specialists in Singapore.

Sign Up

Get The Pill

Be healthier with our Bite-sized health news straight in your inbox