A woman’s experience with LASIK eye surgery has left her grappling with permanent nerve damage, leading her to spend over $20,000 on treatments and medications to alleviate ongoing pain. In February 2021, Alexis Mencos decided to undergo the procedure at a LasikPlus clinic in Chicago, Illinois, investing $3,000 in what she believed would be a life-changing decision for her vision.
At the age of 31, Mencos, who had previously battled stage 4 cancer, was motivated to prioritize her health. She recalled that she had “only heard success stories” about LASIK and felt assured that any potential side effects would be temporary. “I had no idea what complications from LASIK could look like, so I don’t feel like I was able to make an informed decision,” she stated.
After the surgery, Mencos noticed immediate bruising and bloodshot eyes, which she was told were normal reactions. She diligently adhered to the post-operative care regimen, using prescribed eye drops and supplements. However, her recovery took an unexpected turn.
Persistent Pain and Medical Struggles
Three months post-surgery, Mencos experienced severe dryness in her eyes, despite frequent application of the recommended drops. “I was using my drops every 10-15 minutes with no relief, and that’s when I started to wonder if something was wrong,” she shared. The Mayo Clinic reports that while over 80 percent of LASIK patients no longer require glasses or contact lenses, the procedure carries inherent risks.
A representative from LasikPlus expressed sadness over Mencos’ distress and reiterated the clinic’s commitment to patient care, stating, “The clinical data on LASIK gathered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and other reputable organizations confirm a patient satisfaction rate in excess of 96 percent.” They emphasized that not every individual is a suitable candidate for LASIK and encouraged patients experiencing complications to seek follow-up care.
Despite these assurances, Mencos found herself in constant pain, with a persistent burning sensation in her eyes. She developed a chalazion, a fluid-filled cyst resulting from a blocked gland, which further impaired her quality of life. Struggling with debilitating discomfort, Mencos had to leave her job as she sought answers from various medical professionals. “I would sleep the days away because the pain would lessen with my eyes closed,” she explained.
Finding Answers and Raising Awareness
After numerous visits to doctors who dismissed her symptoms, Mencos discovered a support group on Facebook focused on LASIK complications. It was not until she consulted a doctor outside her insurance network that she received a diagnosis: permanent nerve damage. This physician, who recognized her symptoms as atypical, suggested that her history of cancer may have rendered her an unsuitable candidate for LASIK.
“He was the first doctor to believe me and confirm that what I was experiencing was not normal,” Mencos recounted. The diagnosis of corneal neuralgia indicated that she would face ongoing challenges, including pain, sensitivity to light, and severe dryness.
Mencos has since invested substantial resources into managing her condition. Currently, she employs a regimen that includes Autologous Serum Tears, daily eyelid cleansing, heat masks, and various supplements. Despite her ordeal, she now uses social media to share her story and educate others about potential risks associated with LASIK surgery.
Reflecting on her experience, Mencos stated, “Had I seen stories like my own, I would have been able to make a fully informed decision. I never would have gotten LASIK had I known.” Her case highlights the importance of thorough patient education regarding the risks and benefits of elective medical procedures.
In sharing her journey, Mencos hopes to provide support and information to individuals considering LASIK, advocating for greater awareness of potential complications that can arise.
