Abstract
Bilateral simultaneous refractive surgery remains controversial. Opponents argue that a catastrophic complication could occur bilaterally if simultaneous surgery is performed. With sequential surgery, the outcome in the first eye can be assessed; if a catastrophic complication occurs, the surgeon may then choose not to operate on the second eye. Proponents argue that catastrophic unilateral complications of refractive surgery are very rare, 1 Lin R.T. Maloney R.K. Flap complications of lamellar refractive surgery. Am J Ophthalmol. 1999; 127: 129-136 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (256) Google Scholar so bilateral catastrophic complications are sufficiently rare that the risk is acceptable. Although mild or treatable complications are relatively common, 1 Lin R.T. Maloney R.K. Flap complications of lamellar refractive surgery. Am J Ophthalmol. 1999; 127: 129-136 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (256) Google Scholar such a complication on the first eye would not lead a surgeon performing sequential surgery to decide not to operate on the second eye.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
