My Experience With Lasik Eye Surgery – Thoughts About Laser Vision Correction – Is It Worth The Cost and Risks?
I had Lasik surgery a few years ago and it completely changed my life for the better. For those considering the procedure, I highly recommend it wholeheartedly. Particularly for those people like me who spent the majority of their lives dependent on corrective lenses, Lasik will truly transform your life in an almost miraculous way. Freedom from glasses and contact lenses has been such an amazing and liberating experience.
The procedure is considered elective by most health insurance companies and the cost can range between $3000 to $5000. Although the cost has gone down over the years, it’s still quite an expensive procedure. But if you can afford it, the potential benefits greatly outweigh the limited health risks and possible fear factor. It’s one of the best financial expenditures I’ve ever made for myself.
My Background Of Wearing Glasses and Contact Lenses At An Early Age
Since I was little kid I’ve always had terrible eye sight. I started wearing glasses during second grade and my prescription only worsened and thickened over time till they essentially became bullet proof eye guards. I went from thick plastic frames and lenses to sleeker wire frames and ultra thin prescription, but with my horrendous eyesight of -7 in the left and -8 on the right, it was impossible to reduce the lens thickness by much.
I’m not particularly vain but I guess I always felt constrained with having to wear such thick glasses and being recognized by my thick “nerdy” goggles. Since my vision was so bad, I was basically blind without my glasses, frequently having to fumble around for them at night just to do simple things like checking the time. One one occasion, I broke my frames in college, popping out the lenses by accident, causing me to have to tape them up like an uber-dork and attend classes because I did not have a backup pair with me.
Thankfully, I eventually transitioned into contact lenses, but the honeymoon was short lived. Contact lenses were easy and clutter free, but required extra time and effort day and night to maintain and clean them properly. I tried different types of contact lenses but even Acuvue disposables caused eye irritation problems. I had severe dryness in my eyes and they frequently turned blistering red due to contact lens irritation and oxygen deprivation. Remembering to take them out before sleeping or swimming, and having to readjust them after unwittingly rubbing my eyes and dislodging them were always problems to contend with.
It was not until my last year in college that I finally decided to do something about my vision situation and seriously pursue Lasik vision corrective survey as the solution to permanently correct my vision and rid myself of the shackles of contact lenses and glasses forever.
What Is Lasik and What Does Laser Vision Corrective Surgery Involve?
Lasik stands for Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis and is a type of refracted laser eye surgery used to correct most forms of near sightedness, far sightedness, and astigmatism. It has become a very popular alternative to wearing corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses. The operation is performed by an ophthalmologist who creates a thin flap on the surface of the eye using a specialized blade, and uses a special excimer laser machine to modify the eye tissue underneath the flap. After the laser has corrected the vision surface, the flap is then returned to its normal position where healing commences fairly rapidly.
The procedure is usually performed with the patient awake, sitting in an operation chair with the head rest tilted back. Anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eyes while the surgery is underway. There is usually little to no pain involved other than temporary dryness or mild soreness in the eyes after the procedure. Functional recovery occurs within a day but permanent healing takes a few months.
My Lasik Experience At The Laser Eye Center (TLC Vision)
I had my Lasik procedure done in 2000 at The Laser Eye Center, a popular laser vision correction center in my area known for its Lasik procedures on celebrities like Tiger Woods. There were other popular Lasik center choices available aside from TLCV, such as Lasik Plus Vision (LCAV), but I chose the Laser Eye Center due to its strong local presence. There are even more Lasik choices available today, but personally, I would still choose to go with more established brands.
The Lasik procedure itself was pain free, albeit a bit scary. Two close friends came with me for moral support and to drive me back home afterwards. Since my vision and eye had already been mapped out and calibrated during a consultation the day before, all I had to do was pay the $5500 Lasik charge in full by credit card before the procedure would begin.
I remember nervously sniffing the refrigerated freon scent as I sat in my operating chair. Once the anesthetized drops were placed in my eyes, and the eye clamps were put on to keep them open, everything else seemed quite automated. The suction device caused my vision to fade into white but I felt no pain or discomfort as the blade created the flap and the laser device went to work. I remember the physician and his nurses talking excessively to one another during the procedure, which I found kind of annoying since I was a bit nervous and wanted complete silence. The laser excimer created an electrical tapping sound as it zapped my eyes and the buzzing sound lasted longer than usual since my vision was so bad, requiring extra correction. After one eye was done, the procedure was repeated for the other eye. All in all, it only lasted maybe 15 minutes before I hopped out of my chair to face the world again. Immediately I knew my vision had been corrected because I could make out distinct objects, although it initially felt like I was peering through a sheet of gauze.
I was given pain killers and antibiotic drops for my eyes and I went home with my friends who had been watching the entire procedure from a video monitor in the waiting room (I think they were fascinated and grossed out at the same time). The next day, my vision was almost a perfect 20/20 and I was on my way to vision bliss, already returning to my normal routine like nothing had happened. Since then, I’ve remained extremely satisfied with my long term Lasik results.
My Advice To Those Considering Laser Eye Surgery and What To Keep In Mind:
- Not Everyone Is A Good Candidate For Lasik - Lasik is not a good idea for those whose vision is still fluctuating or for those with unusually thin corneas. Ethical physicians will usually reject those that don’t qualify as good candidates for the procedure. I did not become a good Lasik candidate until my vision stabilized during college. Once your vision has remained consistent for a few years, I recommend undergoing the procedure sooner than later. The younger you are, the quicker your eyes will heal and the lesser the chances that complications may arise.
Also, if the corneas in your eyes are too thin, you might be rejected for the Lasik procedure as well. A sufficient corneal diameter is needed to properly create and lift the flap. Unlike cornea thickness, having a high prescription is generally not a major problem for the Lasik procedure since advances in laser technology have greatly enlarged the treatment range.
- Lasik Is Permanent, But Over Time, Your Vision Is Likely To Regress A Bit – It’s been several years since my Lasik surgery and my vision has since regressed very slightly towards nearsightedness again. Fortunately, I still have excellent vision and don’t require a follow up procedure.
- The Nighttime Halo and Glare Problems That Lasik Patients Complain About Are Real – Lasik has been known to cause one to see fuzzy halos and glare at night – this is true. When I gaze at a street lamp at night, I will frequently see an unusually large ball of light surrounding the light source. It was a bit strange at first, but I’ve gotten so used to it that I don’t even notice it anymore. It’s not a real inconvenience at all. The glare was much more significant immediately after the procedure but my eyes have since adapted well.
- After the Lasik Procedure Your Eyes Will Likely Turn Red and Become Very Dry – Immediately after the procedure my eyes hemorrhaged slightly and displayed small patches of red, but this went away after a day or two of rest. This is a normal and natural response, and you eyes will soon recover. My eyes were also very dry for weeks afterwards and I remember avoiding malls because the dry air wrecked havoc with my post op vision. Your eyes recover within days after the procedure, although the corneal flap doesn’t fully seal until 9 months later.
- Price Is Important But It Should Not Be Your Main Consideration When Choosing A Lasik Physician Or Facility – For both eyes I spent a total of $5500 for the procedure, back when Lasik was just coming out. The price was high but it was the best decision I ever made. I paid a premium for it but I received premium results. Don’t try to save money by going to some unknown or amateur physician with little experience in using the Lasik machine or in creating proper corneal flaps. Yes, your chances of ending up blind are extremely remote, but eye surgery is still serious business. Don’t risk it!
December 26th, 2007 at 11:43 am
Thanks for your story! I’ve been contemplating Laser eye surgery for a bit now. Been wearing contacts for years but I’d love to do without them. I’ll probably wait until next year so I can claim it on my flexible spending account.
December 26th, 2007 at 7:18 pm
Sounds good! Let me know how your Lasik procedure goes if you ultimately decide to undergo it. Keep in mind that everyone heals differently. I regressed only a little bit but my brother who recently underwent the procedure as well seems to have regressed a bit more than I did.
Claiming the cost off your flexible spending account (FSA) through your employer is a great idea. Lots of people who are lucky enough to have one are also doing it as well. Good luck!
February 10th, 2008 at 1:44 am
Very informative post about Lasik eye surgery. This is certainly a viable and safe alternative for people who want freedom from contact lenses and thick eyeglasses. Nice to see that you got such good results with your high myopia.
February 22nd, 2008 at 9:07 pm
I will never remember the first few minutes after my procedure…going down the elevator and exiting into a large atrium. I looked up and would actually see the leaves on the tree!
Lasik surgery was the BEST thing I ever did. Going on 5 years now…couldn’t be happier.
May 12th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
I had mine done in December 2007 and I am so happy I did it. I had bad eyes too, -7.5 in both eyes and 5 months later I am still amazed at being able to see.
People who do not have bad eyes do not understand how it feels to go from the way we were to being able to see so they do not understand why we would risk having a laser shot into our eyes.
I got perfect vision after the surgery and my dry eyes stopped after 3 months so I guess I was super lucky. I also did not get the halos or anything..but I would have lived with it just to get rid of the glasses and contacts.
October 14th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Great post, I had my eyes corrected coming up to 1 month ago. Vision is great mostly does deteorate throughout the day (work in a air conditioned office looking at a PC for 8 hours a day), Guess thats the dry eye.
Eye Drops and wearing sun glasses whilst on the PC help a great deal.
November 2nd, 2008 at 6:43 am
Dan,
Don’t worry about the dry eye part too much. That’s part of the normal healing process. I remember experiencing significant dry eyes and extra sensitivity to sunlight and glare for months after my original Lasik procedure. In time the negative effects do pass and you get accustomed to any lingering discomfort if any. I still see small blurred halos at night when I stare directly at lamp posts or street lights. However it’s not really a burden and isn’t too bothersome.
December 10th, 2008 at 1:51 am
Loved your story…..Thanks.
I had the surgery three days ago and LOVE it !!!! I read so many terrible stories I almost backed out of the surgery. I feel terrible for those who did not have a favorable experience.
I too went to TLC, the procedure was painless (yeah). After the numbing drops wore off a Tylenol took care of any (anticipated) discomfort. I did come home and sleep for 4 or 5 hours (highly recommend it). I am so glad I went through with the surgery. I can now see things I never could before.
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:46 am
Geri,
The reason you hear so many scary horror stories about Lasik is because the limited ones who had a bad experience are the same ones most motivated to go out and blast the procedure. After all, if you had a pleasant Lasik vision correction experience, what personal motivation and incentive do you have to go online and post positive comments about the procedure? It’s usually the critics and negative opinion folks who are generally the most vocal.
January 15th, 2009 at 8:04 am
My husband is having Lasik tomorrow and we’re both very nervous. He’s kinda a big baby which makes me extra nervous. However he has wanted this for years and this was my Christmas present to him so I’m really hoping all goes well. I was searching the internet to hear what the actual procedure is like when I came upon your story. Thanks for all the info, and wish us luck!
March 6th, 2009 at 6:09 pm
I had lasik treatment just over a week ago and am pretty happy with the results. Just before surgery i was informed due to my high astigmatism and the the rather large pupils i posess i would almost definately have poor night vision. I was given a short break to decide whether i wanted to proceed with the treatment. I went ahead anyway and apart from the trippy looking streetlamps and the poor eyesight at dusktime i am very happy with the results. Certainly a gamble that paid off.
March 18th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
after 9 years are you still glad you had the procedure?
I am wanting to have the procedure but I am afaid–of a I guess just nervous of teh bad effects–the worsening of eyesight etc..just curious after 9 years–thanks
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:40 am
Sue,
Lasik laser vision correction surgery was the best decision I ever made for myself. For the tremendous confidence boost and physical conveniences alone, the financial cost was worth its weight a hundred times over. Even after 9 years, I am still extremely pleased with the results of my eyesight improvement. My vision has regressed a little bit over the years but even with a slight reversion back to near sightedness, I am still able to function perfectly without the hassle of having to wear thick bullet proof glasses.
I hope your Lasik experience went well! The procedure’s very safe and has a good track record of reliability. Feel free to review and share your pre-surgery and post-surgery thoughts.
May 2nd, 2009 at 5:21 am
Greetings from Finland,
I wonder why there are web pages telling bad experience and web pages like this.
Maybe it could make sense to tell age as well as in my age, 59 decision to undergo lasik was not good. It was done 3 months ago and let us see, should I spend rest of my life with poorer vision than before lasik.
For everyone considering lasik, I prefer to search information as much as possible before operation. I did not do enough.
May 2nd, 2009 at 6:53 am
Lux,
I’m sorry to hear that your laser corrective surgery via Lasik did not go as well as you had hoped. How bad was your vision originally (what was your prescription for your glasses)? Did the Lasik procedure put your eyesight in a worse position than before?
Please share your thoughts as I’m certain plenty of other fellow concerned Lasik patients would like to know more as well. The only thought I’ll add here is that your more advanced age may have been an issue. When it comes to surgery, the younger you are, the easier it is for the body to overcome the complications, burdens, and physical trauma of surgical procedures. I was a young student in college when I had Lasik performed, so perhaps that may explain why it went so effortlessly for me at the time.
May 2nd, 2009 at 9:41 am
Raymond,
I had -4.0 in both eyes, but the doctor said that it has improved to -3.5. Anyway, I agree it is my age, which matters. Also I was told it may take several months to improve, but in this age, one doesn’t want to collect troubles in addition to the existing ones. Decision was made based on couple guys, who underwent the procedure with good results. Because of my age, I had so called monovision, meaning that dominant eye is for far sight and another eye for near sight. Gradually I am used to deal with this outside, but being in dark is terrible. Halos around the lights and poor contrast are the most unpleasant things. Anyway, I have to live with this.
May 2nd, 2009 at 9:52 am
Lux,
I am very sorry that you’re in the difficult predicament. I know it must be frustrating for you to have to undergo a medical procedure that winds up not helping you significantly and even actually raises more problems than before.
Re: Halos, they do dissipate a bit with time. Like eye floaters, you get used to seeing them after some time and they end up being less bothersome.
While fairly safe, Lasik is still invasive surgery. What was your reason for deciding to undergo the procedure in the first place? Were there certain activities (swimming etc) that you had wanted to engage in that your glasses were hindering? Or was it due to cosmetic reasons etc? I am just curious as to your motivating factor for choosing to undergo the laser surgery.
May 3rd, 2009 at 3:36 am
Raymond,
looks like my last answer did not appear here?
May 5th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
I decided to undergo lasik operation after over 10 years consideration. First I thought it is too dangerous and in fact I saw some letter in Finnish news paper telling bad experience of PRK. Then one of my friend decided to go to the lasik operation and he was happy after that. Also I met one guy, who has had the PRK operation in 1991, and he told he is very satisfied. However, it took several years after that, maybe 2007, when I met another guy, who recently underwent lasik operation and he said he is happy. I think, my decision was done then. I checked Finnish blogs and most of them were very positive and finally I thought, this is the year (2009) when I will have the operation. First I booked in different place, but they told, they have co-operation company closer to me and I appointed the checking and operation time with them. I asked, whether there is possibility to have bad result, but the answer was only that every operation has its own risks. Then I decided to go ahead. Surgeon was very friendly and I believe also professional on his field (but not sure about ethic). I was so exited that I hardly remember the operation. Everything seemed to go well and they told that I already could drive car without glasses. However, as I had “monovision” operation, the feeling was very strange. They said, by the time it will improve as it did a bit. But the other problems, which they did not mention, like driving at night is impossible due to halos and glare and I lost the road completely, when I look the cars lights. The distance sight is not so good as I had with glasses and even with reading glasses I cannot see the smallest print, what was easy before the operation without glasses. Three months has passed since my operation and I have feeling that it has gone even worse. I was in one seminar sitting rather front, but I could not see small letters in the slides presented there. I believe, when I have next check, I will have glass description.
Today, I read in another advertisement about the reason of halos. They explained that the operation area is too small and they are able to do wide enough. I sent an email to them, asking if they can do some enhancement for me and they replied asking more detailed information. This place is very far from my home town, however, if it improves my sight, I will consider this option.
When I will go to my original surgeon for checking, I surely will tell him that this was worst decision in my life. I found, nowadays contact lenses are much easier as they used to be and opticians give even free trials, if you like. In my case, playing badminton, I could wear contacts and see better than I can do now. As I have received high education, I should understand that before this kind of irreversible operation, enough references should be collected . I failed to do so, even though I have had enough time. Although I gave many reason, like playing badminton, frosting glasses, loosing them in the morning and so on, maybe it was only pure egotism to have this operation. many kind of alternative medical treatments are banned, but usually in those cases one looses only money without result. In this case I lost money with bad result. However, should I be able to reverse this operation, I was more than happy to pay again same amount.
May 20th, 2009 at 1:55 am
I decided on Lasik because my vision was -11.50 in one eye and -9.5 in the other. I am one who totally understand why people choose to have Lasik. I have to admit, I was very happy to see the world w/o glasses. At present, I am not sure if the pros outweight the cons. I did not need reading glasses before Lasik. I was also able to drive at night. I can live with having to read fine print w/ reading glasses, although the optomologist told me I would not need them. I just cannot live with not being able to drive at night since I live in an area where driving is a must. It is not the halo that freak with me out. I cannot see as well at night. I can see, but the lighting is very dim. It is like driving with sunglasses at night. I am hoping this is temporary since it is one of the condition I read from the Optomologist’s handout. I would rather have my bad vision than not being to do things at night.
May 20th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Frances,
I know about the night time halo side effect that many experience with Lasik…but was not aware of the possible dim-ness factor. This seems like a pretty major side effect and one that may cause many potential patients to reconsider.
How long ago did you undergo the laser vision surgery procedure and how long have you had to recover? Also, what is your current age? I ask because age is a major determinative factor in how quickly and completely our bodies can recover from certain invasive procedures. Did you have any other pre-existing conditions that may have been exacerbated by Lasik?
May 21st, 2009 at 5:42 am
I have 3 moth’s checking and as anticipated I got glasses. But even with them, the result is worse that it was before operation with my very old glasses.
However, I have been in touch with other companies and they try to convince that halo & dimness phenomenons will decrease when time passes.
Heard from many sources that even though PRK is more painful it would be better choice, because it touch only the epithel, which is regrowing.
Anyway, I have to live with this bad decision and maybe after couple years, I cannot noticed the problems anymore.
May 23rd, 2009 at 3:28 pm
Hello all. Interesting page you have here Raymond. I just wanted to share a bit of my experience. First of all, my prescription was:
Right: -11.5/-3 Axis = 19
Left: -12.5/-3.5 Axis = 174.
I went to a LASIK facility and was told that I could not do lasik because I was too far out and I think my cornea material wasn’t enough. I was however given the option of a Phakic IOL, specifically the Visian ICL. I studied this option quite a bit and decided to go for it. The only thing is they aren’t FDA Approved to fix Astigmatism yet, so I would also need a LASIK to fix remaining error + astigmatism after the Visian ICL – this is becoming more common I guess and is known as Bioptics. I found a Dr. who is a visian ICL specialist in my area.
On May 6th, I had the operation to install the Visian ICLs. My vision was better, but blurry shortly after the operation. I have an eye chart up in my room because I wanted to make sure to track my progress. The first day or maybe early the 2nd, I could really only see about the 50ft line from 10ft back or about 20/100, but the next day or so I noticed that I could now make out the 30ft row from about 20ft back. That was pretty cool – For comparison, before this, I had to be around 1-2 feet to see the 70ft row. I was really not capable of doing anything much without glasses before.
Just 2 days after the procedure (and it might have been too soon, but I felt I had to get them so I could drive), I had an exam and got a pair of glasses. The prescription was now:
Right +1.25/-1.25 Axis =5
Left +.75/-1.75 Axis 170.
My right eye appears almost perfect if I cover my left eye up. If I cover my right eye, I can tell I have the astigmatism in my left eye – I think I am only about 20/50 in the left eye and close to 20/20 in the right eye. The Dr. mentioned that I was seeing about 20/25 overall. Because my astigmatism is straight up and down I think, I see some doubling or for example I might see 4 left/right lines on the number 3. I see this with left eye only or somewhat with both eyes, but not with just the right eye – that eye is good.
I go in for a check on how stable my eyes are soon and then the LASIK will be scheduled, possibly for June 10th or so.
I have also seen some of the issues other have mentioned here – I do see halos around small lights at night (I haven’t tried driving at night yet). I see some haze/glare/some doubling. From what I’ve read alot of this can get better with time and/or keeping eyes from being dry – my eyes don’t feel dry, but I guess they can be anyways. I am kind of waiting for the LASIK before I make too big of a deal of these items.
Also, my near vision has been kind of rough – at first it was real bad – I couldn’t see the computer text hardlly at all, but I can now, but it just isn’t quite a sharp and clear as it could be – With glasses before, I used to have very, very good close vision and I’m afraid I may have lost some of that. I can use the computer without glasses, but it still doesn’t look 100% right yet.
So, there has been good and bad. I have actually been able to go about 90-95% of my days without glasses – I mostly need them for driving (and I can actually do that without the glasses if I have to, but not as safe) so that has been cool, but there are some concerns still. I am very anxious for the LASIK step to be done as that should fix up some of the astigmatism and then I can work on any issues that may be left after that. Probably the scariest things are the halos and the potential for glare and not knowing if/when that will go away for good.
If I remember to, I will try to post an update after the LASIK. My main hopes are for my left eye to catch up to the right eye and that at least after a while the halos/glare go away or are less noticable. I would be happy to try answer anyone’s basic questions about the Visian ICL or anything like that – of course detailed items should go to a professional eye doctor.
Thanks,
Jim J.
May 24th, 2009 at 5:26 am
Hi Jim,
is Visian ICL some extra lens in the eye?
Does anyone has experience of multifocal IOLs? I am not sure, if the operation is only done in case of cataract, but sounds perfect as the artificial IOL could accommodate as original lens and nor reading glasses are needed.
May 24th, 2009 at 11:57 am
Lex,
First of all, I’m sorry about the problems you have had. It is very tough when there is a procedure that could fix your problems and then you end up with other problems because of the procedure. Keep up your hopes and maybe the halos and stuff will be reduced – I hope they will in my case as well.
The Visian ICL is a seperate lens. It is placed in front of the natual human lens. This is different from Cataract surgery where in my understanding, they basically destroy the person’s natural lens and then implant a new lens.
In the Visian ICL surgery, the ICL is placed in front of the natural lens and the natural lens is left untouched, so it is basically like having a contact lens literally put inside your eye.
From what I have seen, it seems like the multi-focal lenses, etc. that you refer to are only used for cataracts. My guess is that doctors won’t risk destroying the natural lens without cataracts forming (with cataracts they can do it, because the person will eventually have very bad or no vision anyways at that point).
I wanted to give a bit more background and mention a few more things in my case – first of all, I have been wearing glasses for 30 years, which is quite a bit since I am 36 years old. My first glasses were in 1st grade and my vision got progressively worse until around adult hood. When I moved to California in about 1995, I wanted to make sure to pass the DMV vision test, so I got an exam and a pair of glasses. I don’t remember what the prescption was at the time, but I continued to wear that same pair for the next 14 years, until the ear piece broke in Mar 2009. That’s when I started to look into LASIK as the Optomotrist kept saying that my eyes were healthy, and I asked her if she thought I would be a good candidate for LASIK and she said that I could be. I didn’t really consider her an expert though as she isn’t a LASIK doctor, so I went to a LASIK doctor who then told me I was not a candidate for LASIK but gave me the Visian ICL option.
I should also mention the financial aspect of it – unfortunately this really isn’t a money saver in any way for me – like I said I wore the same pair of glasses for 14 years, so those didn’t really cost me much. Also, the ICL can be quite a bit more then LASIK. I paid $8400 to the Drs. office for the ICLs, plus $2500 to the surgery center. Then, the LASIK that I will have later will cost an extra $2600, so basically about $13,500 total.
It certainly is a new thing for me in any event – before this I wore glasses 100% of the time other then laying down or in the shower or whatever. The day after the surgery my mom drove us to McDonalds and I didn’t have any glasses with me and I think it was the first time in 30 years I had literally been anywhere without having a pair of glasses with me at all!
Thanks,
Jim J.
May 24th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Jim,
thank you for the explanation.
I believe too that natural lens will be replaces only in the case of cataract. However, being 59 already, I may face cataract problem sooner or later. If this will be the case, I will consider adaptable lens, if available.
In our country doctors seem to reply also after operation. My doctor told me last Friday that it may take up to one year to get rid of halos. Should I know the halo problem beforehand, I think I never underwent the operation.
But let’s hope better vision for both of us in near future.
May 31st, 2009 at 12:37 pm
I’m considering doing lasik…i will be having my consultsion next week. Thank you for all your feedbacks…its extremley insightful.and i feel prepared enough to ask about the night time possible problems as i too must drive during the night.
Thank you so much
June 1st, 2009 at 4:54 am
ham,
I know at least 4 – 5 other people, who underwent lasik with good results. However, I would be ready to pay same amount or more to reverse it.
June 2nd, 2009 at 2:01 am
Jim – what doctor did you use for you Visian ICL? I am considering doing it and not sure what doctor to trust. Also – do you recommend the procedure?
June 2nd, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Momo,
I used a doctor who is listed in the http://www.visianinfo.com site in CA as a “Leading Visian ICL specialist”. I think anyone considering a Visian ICL should consider any of the doctors who are listed as specialists. I’m just a bit hesitant about saying exactly which one it was on a public board – maybe you could list your email and I could let you know that way.
As far as recommending it, that is a hard one for me at this point, just because I am not complete yet – since I have astigmatism I have to do the LASIK step and I hesitate to judge the results too much until that gets done as well. I think there are certain factors to consider such as the price and if you could just do LASIK instead. LASIK can certainly be quicker, but if you can’t do LASIK, the ICL could be a great option.
Up to this point I would say I am happy, maybe even very happy, but again until the final results, I won’t be able to be sure as I don’t know if the LASIK will get me up to 20/20 or whatever or not. I guess I’m the kind who likes to get stuff over with, so I am very anxious for the final step.
I think for most people if you don’t have much astigmatism, it could be quite a bit simpler then my case. The surgery itself was very easy – there is about 2 weeks of taking drops before the surgery, etc. but that’s no big deal. If you don’t mind, could I ask what about your prescription is? Have you been told you can’t do LASIK, or don’t want to for some other reason?
I guess for each person they have to decide on how much they want to at least have a chance of getting rid of glasses/contacts against how much it costs and any possible risks. Just like in Lux’s case, if it works for me or for others, it doesn’t mean it will work for everyone. I think the best idea is to find the Visian ICL specialist closest to you and go in for a review – and if the doctor doesn’t answer your questions or you don’t like him or her that much, then go to the next one.
I guess to finish off I will say that I am expecting that I will recommend it – it’s been very good so far, but I just want to hold off endorsing it completely until after I have my final step taken care of (maybe around Jun 24th).
Jim J.
June 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Jim, thank you so much for your feedback. I would want to post my email confidentially but not sure how to?
I’ve been told my corneas are way too thin for lasik by every doctor, and the only correction possible is the ICL or lens replacement. I also have retinal detachment in my family, I fear it might cause a tear OR make my floaters even more prominent.
I am seeing the famous doctor in LA in a couple months for a consultation and to see if he thinks that its worth it since I don’t have any issue tolerating contacts. They do get dry/red when I am tired but other than that, no problem.
My prescription:
right -12.75 +150 A=60
left -9.00 +100 A=160
The only reason I am considering the surgery is convenience, so not sure if its worth all the risks?? I am scared to death about the surgery, but would love to wake up and see the clock.
June 2nd, 2009 at 8:25 pm
Momo,
As the blog moderator, I can email Jim for you with your private email contact information. There is no need for you to reveal your confidential email address in this public online forum.
June 19th, 2009 at 9:29 am
Hi everyone,
I think this is a great forum, full of relevant information. I am 44yo and I´m considering Lasik surgery here in Brasil. I would like to hear from people who have had the procedure at around my age. I was very sorry to read about Lux´s experience and that worried me a bit. I have myopia, around 5 or 6D on both eyes and astigmatism, around 2(?) on both eyes as well. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
June 20th, 2009 at 7:07 am
Tulio,
At least you should check the size of your pupils. If they are big, forget.
I have had tiny improvement in halos and starbursts, but now we have natural light almost all over the day, so I am not sure, how bad it will be, when our “dark season” will start in autumn.
July 12th, 2009 at 11:42 pm
I just had the surgeruy yesterday and this has been the first day in my adul life where I can get up and just leave…not worry about glasses or contacts….best thing I could EVER do!!!!!!
July 21st, 2009 at 6:43 pm
Hi,
I am 23 and I am considering doing Lasik. I have myopia, around 4 on both eyes. My consultation today with LasikPlus went well. They say that I am a good candidat, but I am still scared to actually do it. Eventhough I am pretty tiered of wearing my glasses and contacts, tiered of not seeing very well while driving at night, I feel like these reasons might not be strong enough to undergo such a risk. I just think that compare to the people who posted in this blog my vision is not that bad, and may be I should just deal with it, instead of dealing with anykind of bad results.
Would be glad to hear any thoughts on this. Thank you.
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:16 am
Hi Olga,
you can also visit other sites, like
http://www.asklasikdocs.com/forums/index.php
My situation is slightly improving, but still rather unhappy. I visited another doctor and he recommended slight enhancement.
July 25th, 2009 at 1:41 am
how much is the chance of becoming blind?
August 29th, 2009 at 8:44 am
Hi,
I underwent the intralase, custom lasik just over 6 weeks ago. So, I can say that I am somewhat satisfed with the results, but it’s definitely not what I expected.
Background: I am 39 and I spend, at least, 12 hours a day on the computer if not more. Before the surgery my reading vision was degrading over the last year. It got to the point where I could not read my iphone when I had my contacts in. Furthermore, with my glasses on I didn’t know whether I should put them on or take them off. My prescription was -4.5 in both eyes, with a slight astigmatism.
After the surgery: my reading vision has become incredible. So sharp and detailed. In fact, within 4 to 5 feet around me it’s amazing. But, after a few feet out the blurriness sets in. My doctor says I’ve got just around 20/40 or need for a -0.75 corrective lens, though I think it’s legal to drive like this (which I do daily).
The odd part is that when I put in lubricating drops my distance vision becomes *perfect*, but unfrotunately the effect only lasts 10 minutes.
My doctor says that my eyes are still a bit dry, especially around the incision and to continue using Restasis, which I understand takes 2 to 3 months before it starts working. I hope that I will start producing tears that are equivalent to those in the lubricating drops, but somehow I doubt it.
Now the big question is whether I would want to go back under the laser. Clearly, it would be nice to see perfect 20/20, but I would probably need to start wearing reading glasses… At least now I don’t wear any glasses anytime. And since I”m mostly on the computer… maybe it’s better this way….
Anyway, I was wondering if anyone else had the clearing effect of the eye drops and whether it eventually went away? I’m also curious to hear about the Restasis patients and what their experiences have been like.
Good luck!
andrei
September 1st, 2009 at 8:31 pm
Andrei,
I am curious to hear about your consultation. Did they advise that you were a good candidate for LASIK? I have my consultation this Friday and I am still researching heavily. I am still not completely convinced the pros outweigh the possible cons.
For reference, I am a -6 and -5 with an astigmatism is both eyes. I have worn glasses or contacts since before I was ten years old. I would love to know the feeling of waking up with vision in the morning. But, I am being careful in making my decision.
Thanks!
Jay
September 2nd, 2009 at 2:48 am
I wanted to give an intermediate report, as I am not willing to give up for poorer vision and other problems. After my surgery I have tried to find pages like this, but also I have had consultant with two other doctors. First one is a pioneer of lasik in my country and he has all possible equipment. He suggested an enhancement to my left eye, but didn’t mention the real reason for problems. Second doctor made guessing already in email, spherical aberration, caused by old fashion machines and in her test this turned out to be true. Also she found some coma and astigmatism. She suggested enhancement in right eye and indeed it causes a bit more starbursts than left eye (with glasses). With fear I agreed the enhancement on Sept 24.
After several months study, I can give suggestions to guys willing to undergo lasik operation.
1. Don’t go
2. If you still are willing to take a risk, choose the place, which have modern wave front guided operation, others cannot take the corneal profile in account so well
4. Also, choose the doctor having long record of lasik operations and good reputation (ask as many places as possible)
4. If you have big pupils, they may cause starbursts at night (reason is that light reflects in operated area as well as non operated area)
5. Very strong myopia and thin corneal thickness is not a good combination, because prolate shape cannot be preserved and seeing at night becomes extremely difficult.
6. If your outcome is bad, then there is at least one place in US very willing to correct botched operations: http://www.wangvisioninstitute.com/ (makes of course primary operations too).
Good luck!
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:21 am
In fact I was told that my combination of characteristics put me in the “sweet spot” as a candidate for Lasik.
Btw, an acquaintance of mine who is an optometrist recently said that there is a bit of unknown surrounding the outcome. Things like individual healing process and humidity levels could have some negative (or positive) impact.
The other curious thing is that my colleague who had -8 in both eyes went to the same surgeon just weeks earlier and can not be happier with his outcome. Oh well… Just my luck.
Anyway I still have hopes that the restasis will kick in, since the doctor said there was dryness around the edges of the flap. (even though it’s been 7 weeks!)
September 17th, 2009 at 6:22 am
I went for a LASIK consultation a few days ago.
I have -6 Dioptres both eyes. I waslready to go ahead but the surgeon
mentioned about my large pupil size (7mm and 8mm) and poor night vision compared to someone with smaller pupils who had LASIK.
I did some research and now I am very frightened to go ahead. People have written about debilitating night vision after having LASIK with large pupil size. It makes sense to me and I feel it would be foolish of me to go ahead with it if I know of a reason why it may not work.
I am now very disappointed as I was looking forward to being free of glasses but if it means I cannot see at night to drive, socialise etc then I think I would be better sticking with glasses/contact lenses. I am very depressed about it but feel I would be even more depressed if I ended up with poor night vision. I know it may improve but there are no guarantees.
Has anyone else had LASIK done with my pupil size and what is your night vision like?
I know there are several factors which also affect night vision which makes it complicated and difficult to predict. It’s a shame for me as I have very thick corneas which would otherwise make me a good candidate.
September 29th, 2009 at 3:13 pm
Hello everyone.
I’m 50 years old and I just recently had custom LASIK surgery at TLC just a few days ago (Sept.24/09). I waited years to have it done. This was my birthday present to myself for my 50th. I was lead to believe that this surgery is best done when you’re older as that’s when your eyes stop changing. I realize that it can takes months for ones vision to ’settle’, however, I have a real concern. Before the surgery I wore bifocals. My reading ability without glasses wasn’t too bad. Now, after the surgery it’s horrendous! When I eat my food it’s blurry, I can’t even see to put make-up on! I was told ‘after’ the surgery that my vision , up to arms length, would be gone. It’s blurry anywhere from 4-6 feet in front of me! I knew that I would still need reading glasses, but I was never told that it would get much worse nor did I read any literature stating this would happen. I was aware that I may experience halos at night. I didn’t realize I’d have them in the daytime too! My distance vision did turn out well, but I made my life much more difficult than before.
I work as an advanced care paramedic and the reason I chose this surgery was because rain, snow, smudges on the glasses, breaking, having the lenses fog up when entering someones warm home from the cold as well as having them fall off my face made my work a bit difficult. I think I just made my job alot more difficult. I really, really hope it gets better with time. We’ll see.
I did try bifocal contacts, but that didn’t work.
September 30th, 2009 at 2:19 am
Ornella,
as I had, you may have higher order aberrations due to using wrong type of laser equipment. The correct one is wave front guided instead of wave front optimized. I had enhancement to my right eye on last Thursday in new place having such a modern instrument and my visus improved a lot as the doctor could completely eliminate 4 types of HOAs. However, still starbursts and halos remain, but hope to get rid of them, when time passes. I prefer you will consult another place having wave front guided capability. In the place I visited they are also able to operate wide enough to compensate big pupil sizes.
October 19th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
Ornella, you didn’t do your research. It’s a well-known fact that for nearsighted people, LASIK takes away the ability to see close-up when the cornea is reshaped. I am (was) nearsighted before the procedure and can read fine close-up now (I’m 27), but when I’m in my 40s I will need glasses like everyone else because I gave up the nearsightedness I would have had for the ability to see far during my youth. It was a compromise. Because you’re older and wore bifocals, you should have gotten monovision, not regular LASIK like a candidate like me got. With monovision, they correct the dominant eye to see close up and the less dominant eye to see far away to create “bifocal” vision. You don’t get perfect vision either up close or far away, but a decent blend of the too. At the very least, you wouldn’t have needed glasses. Someone should have told you about this surgery.
I also would have recommended that you get a custom LASIK procedure, in which they map the topography of your cornea and match the procedure to it. A regular LASIK procedure runs a much higher risk of effects like halos and starbursts.
November 7th, 2009 at 1:37 am
jim,
the visian ICL rocks.
had too thin corneas for lasik, which was a blessing in disguise.
after the visian ICL, I had 20/15 overall, better than 20/20, I can see at 20 feet what others only see at 15 feet.