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　　Laser eye surgery is becoming increasingly popular as a means to combat poor eyesight, and the most common type is LASIK surgery. By reshaping the cornea so it can more precisely focus light on the retina, the procedure effectively corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. A high-tech procedure, LASIK is surprisingly quick and relatively safe--but there are risks involved to which one shouldn't turn a blind eye.

　　One such potential downside is that patients' night vision can be adversely affected, with some seeing halos or starbursts around lights after dark. Others complain of sensitivity to light or increased dryness as painful aftereffects, or that their vision has been under- or overcorrected. All these annoyances, however, disappear with time or can be remedied with further surgery.

　　Also, while this form of laser surgery can greatly improve clarity, eyewear may still be needed afterward for perfect vision, especially after the age of 40--a negative aspect compounded by the fact that LASIK often makes the wearing of contact lenses extremely uncomfortable.

　　Admittedly, the risks involved in LASIK surgery are minimal. But, if you are one of those looking to improve their eyesight in this way, at least you can now do so with a decidedly clearer view!

　　--by Nick Wheeler