Eye surgery and negligence claims

Laser eye surgery is more readily available than it has been in previous years. Laser eye surgery can be used to improve vision and reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses and surgery can take place to remove cataracts and repair retinas. However, while many treatments improve the vision and quality of life of patients, there are occasions where, due to negligence, mistakes are made. If this happens then a patient may be able to make a case for compensation.

Laser eye surgery

Laser eye surgery involves reshaping the cornea to correct the vision of both near and far sighted patients. However, as it is classed as a non-essential operation it is rarely provided by the NHS and must be undertaken privately. With hundreds of different clinics offering surgery it is important that a patient selects a surgeon with experience and the right credentials; however even when the upmost care is taken to select the right surgeon, mistakes can still happen and the surgery may not be successful or may lead to further problems. It is important to note that some patients may be more at risk than others during laser eye surgery.

Examples of complications from laser eye surgery include retinal detachment, cloudy vision, itchy eyes, dry skin, problems seeing at night and poor vision. In particular, those at risk include people with thin corneas and large pupils. A failure to pick up on these risk factors could be a form of negligence and the patient may be entitled to compensation.

Cataracts

Around 300,000 cataract removal procedures take place every year in the UK. Cataracts develop in the eye, usually with age, and cause cloudiness in the eyes of patients. Upon removal poor technique could cause complications.

If you have had eye surgery and have suffered due to the negligence of your surgeon then you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation. To find out more about the different forms of negligence click here to read our free guide.

Alternatively, contact Rollingsons medical negligence team on 0207 611 4848 to arrange a free and no obligation initial consultation.