Lasik and Eye Surgery Errors

Corrective eye surgeries, such as Lasik, are designed to improve vision and enhance quality of life, but when mistakes occur, the results can be devastating. Errors during these procedures, whether due to inadequate pre-surgical evaluations, equipment failures, or poor technique, can lead to complications such as blurred or double vision, chronic eye pain, and, in the worst cases, permanent vision loss. If you or a loved one has suffered harm from an eye surgery error, a Prince George’s County Lasik and eye surgery lawyer can help you hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue compensation for your losses.

An eye surgery injury can drastically alter your quality of life, affecting your vision, independence, and overall well-being. The attorneys at Foran & Foran, P.A. are committed to thoroughly examining your case, working with medical experts, and building a compelling claim to recover compensation for your medical costs, lost income, and emotional distress. With a compassionate and client-focused approach, we ensure your rights are protected and your story is heard. Contact us today to take the first step toward justice and pursue the recovery you deserve.

Many patients experience temporary side effects after Lasik, but some complications can persist indefinitely, impairing daily life. Common issues include:

• Dry eyes — severe dryness and discomfort, often requiring prescription drops or long-term management;
• Blurry or hazy vision — errors in laser calibration can cause uneven corneal reshaping, leading to permanent distortions;
• Halos, starbursts, and glare — patients may struggle to see in low light or at night due to light sensitivity and visual artifacts around light sources and
• Corneal injuries — mistakes during the corneal flap creation may result in abrasions, incomplete flaps, or even corneal perforation.

These complications often stem from procedural errors, such as misaligned lasers or improperly maintained equipment. While some patients adapt to minor visual disturbances, others face significant hardships that interfere with their ability to work, drive, or enjoy their daily routines.

Preventable mistakes during Lasik surgery usually occur due to lapses in preparation, execution, or equipment handling. The most common sources of error include:

• Corneal flap creation. The initial step in Lasik surgery involves using a microkeratome blade to create a thin flap in the cornea. Misalignment or blade malfunction can damage the cornea and lead to severe complications.
• Laser calibration issues. A poorly adjusted laser may remove too much or too little corneal tissue, leaving patients with irregular vision or the need for additional corrective procedures.
• Surgical device failures. Outdated, poorly maintained, or malfunctioning equipment increases the likelihood of patient harm.

In many cases, these errors could be avoided if surgeons adhered to strict safety standards and ensured that all equipment was properly calibrated and maintained.

Preventable mistakes during Lasik surgery highlight the critical need for vigilance and accountability in medicine. Although Lasik is considered an elective procedure, it involves complex techniques and carries risks that demand meticulous attention to detail. When surgeons or clinics fail to adhere to established safety standards, the consequences can be life-changing for patients.

Common causes of preventable errors in Lasik surgery include:

• Failure to follow safety protocols — deviating from industry standards increases the risk of improper outcomes;
• Poor equipment maintenance — malfunctioning or outdated tools, such as microkeratome blades or laser systems, can lead to severe complications;
• Inadequate patient assessments — proceeding with surgery without fully evaluating a patient’s unique risks, such as pre-existing conditions or unsuitable corneal thickness; and
• Lack of proper training or supervision — inexperienced surgeons or insufficient oversight during the procedure often contribute to errors.

Legal claims brought by patients who have suffered due to these preventable issues serve not only to hold negligent providers accountable but also to promote systemic changes in the field. By addressing these deficiencies, medical facilities can reduce the risk of similar errors and improve patient safety in the future.

If you’ve experienced lasting complications after Lasik surgery, the first step is to seek immediate medical attention to determine the extent of the damage and explore corrective options. However, addressing the physical injury is often only part of the process. You may also have grounds for legal action for outpatient surgery malpractice if the complications were caused by surgical negligence, such as improper preparation, technical errors, or poor post-operative care.

A Prince George’s County Lasik and eye surgery errors lawyer can investigate your case, identify deviations from standard medical practices, and determine whether negligence contributed to your injury. Taking legal action may help you recover compensation for:

• Medical costs — covering expenses for corrective treatments, follow-up care, and medications;
• Lost wages — addressing time missed from work during recovery or diminished earning capacity due to ongoing complications; and
• Pain and suffering — recognizing the physical and emotional toll of your injury.

By holding negligent providers accountable, you can secure the resources needed to move forward and promote improved safety practices for future patients.

Nerve damage caused by surgical mistakes can result in chronic pain, loss of sensation, or impaired mobility, significantly impacting your quality of life. At Foran & Foran, we work to hold negligent surgeons and medical staff accountable for the harm caused by these preventable errors. Our attorneys carefully investigate your case, collaborate with medical experts, and fight to obtain compensation for your injuries and related losses. To schedule a free consultation with one of our medical malpractice lawyers in Prince George's County, give us a call at (301) 441-2022. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.