Pennsylvania Police Officer’s Suicide Sparks Concerns Over LASIK Eye Surgery Risks

A 26-year-old Penn Hills police officer, Ryan Kingerski, died by suicide earlier this year, leaving behind a note that directly referenced complications from a LASIK eye procedure.

His grieving parents are now speaking out, hoping to raise awareness about what they believe are underreported risks of the surgery.

What Happened

Ryan Kingerski had long aspired to follow in his father’s footsteps and became a police officer in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania. In January 2025, he tragically took his own life after enduring severe complications from a LASIK eye surgery.

He left a note saying, “I can’t take this anymore. LASIK took everything from me,” prompting his parents to speak publicly about his experience.

Key Details

According to his parents, Tim and Stefanie Kingerski, Ryan underwent LASIK with optimism. However, immediately following the procedure, he began experiencing debilitating side effects, including:

  • Persistent headaches
  • Visual floaters and double vision
  • Dark spots impairing his eyesight
  • Emotional and physical distress

Ryan never returned to work and was visibly struggling. His father drove him to multiple specialists, but they say effective help never came. The family said he felt regretful and abandoned by the clinic, especially after being dropped as a patient following his online posts.

Reactions or Statements

LasikPlus, the clinic where Ryan underwent surgery, declined to speak on camera. In a written statement, they emphasized that suicide is a complex issue and not solely linked to LASIK. The clinic stated that patients receive informed consent documents explaining risks before surgery.

The Penn Hills Police Department issued a heartfelt message, calling Officer Kingerski a dedicated public servant. The department, along with its advisory board, accepted memorial challenge coins from Ryan’s family, honoring his legacy and commitment.

Investigation or What’s Next

There is no formal investigation linking LASIK surgery directly to Ryan’s death. However, his case has reignited conversations around elective eye surgeries and how complications—though rare—can have devastating personal impacts.

Advocates like Hayden Hutchins, who also experienced adverse effects from LASIK, are using platforms like TikTok to share stories like Ryan’s and call for greater transparency and support.

Ryan’s parents are now pushing for increased awareness about LASIK risks, especially for young people who might not be fully informed about potential side effects.

FAQs

Q: What symptoms did Ryan Kingerski experience after LASIK?
A: He suffered from visual disturbances such as floaters, double vision, and dark spots, along with chronic headaches and emotional distress.

Q: Did Ryan seek medical help after the procedure?
A: Yes. His father took him to multiple specialists, but the family felt their concerns were dismissed and unresolved.

Q: Has LasikPlus responded to the situation?
A: The company issued a written statement emphasizing that suicide is multifactorial and not directly linked to LASIK, citing standard informed consent procedures.

Q: How common are LASIK complications?
A: According to the American Refractive Surgery Council, complications occur in less than 1% of cases annually, out of roughly 500,000 procedures.

Q: What is the family hoping to achieve?
A: They aim to raise awareness about the potential risks of LASIK and encourage better post-operative support for patients.

Summary / Final Takeaway

Ryan Kingerski’s death has sparked a broader conversation about elective eye surgeries and their potential complications. His parents remember him as a vibrant, compassionate young man dedicated to public service.

They now honor his memory by advocating for greater transparency and caution around LASIK procedures.

If you or someone you know is struggling, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “help” to 741-741, or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

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