Dilemma- laser eyes treatment?

Question

I am shortsighted on both eyes -6.00.
After conultation doctor said I am qualified for the surgery.
Would you recommend or not and why?

Answer 1

I am an ophthalmologist and have not had it done on myself. Many of my fellow ophthalmologists wear glasses. Even though the serious complication rate is very small (probably 0.2 or 0.3%), it is real and rarely people develop complications that makes their vision permanently worse after surgery.

That being said, most people who have had the surgery love it and are happy they did. It just depends on how risk-tolerant you are. If you have a job or hobby where you could not tolerate less than perfect vision if something went wrong, don't have the surgery. Otherwise, go for it.

The idea of going to S. Africa is really not smart. Truely, the surgery is technically easy to perform and almost anybody with minimal training can run the machines and laser that do the surgery. What you are paying for is eye doctor with the knowledge and experience to appropriately screen you before surgery (certain hidden eye condition can lead to very serious complications if you have Lasik) and manage any problems that might arise from the surgery. For instance, if 2 months after surgery you develop deep lamellar keratitis, a vision-threatening inflammatory condition of the corneal Lasik flap, do you really want your eye surgeon to be in S. Africa?

Don't skimp on the surgery. Go to a reputable institution, like a univeristy program or well-respected community cornea specialist, who is willing to turn you away if you're not a good candidate and knows how to handle the rare but potentially serious complications.

Answer 2

Great Question, I am in the same boat, but I think i nthe end it will be worth it, I am leaning towards going for it in the next couple of years. Even though I am a good contact wearer, I worry about my eye health with them.

Answer 3

I wouldn't go near anything like that..I have heard too many horror stories...my son wanted to have laser eye surgery and his optician said it really isn't worth risking your eyesight as these ops are Guaranteed to work, really think about it before you do it, I have put a link to give a bit of advice

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/2458511.stm

Answer 4

Yes. But since you are female, make sure you are done having children as your eyesight changes with each pregnancy and birth. Other than that, go for it. When I'm all done with kids, I'm getting it. I'm sick of contacts. I'd love to see in the morning and not have to fumble for my glasses. My dad had it done with no issues. But he is getting older and still has to wear reading glasses.

Answer 5

yes- i had lasik surgury in feb./05 it was well worth it to me it was the first time i could see without my glasses in 20 yrs. do keep in mind the worst your eyes are there is still a chance that you may need glasses for reading and or driving. i still get a little blurry when i drive at nite and i'm tired but i don't need and help from glasses. also depending on your age? when everyone get at about 40years old their eyes change for the worst and you may need to get an inhancement when they do.

Answer 6

I think it is a good thing, I am going to have mine done within the next few months. ( I`m sick of keep loosing my glasses!) I am interested in going abroad to have it done. I had not considered S. Africa, I shall certainly look into it. Thanks Paul P.

Answer 7

yes do it, dont think twice, but save your money by doing it in south africa, fantastic private clinics and much cheaper even when you include the flight, then you can have a cheap holiday at the same time

Answer 8

I did it - the best money I ever spent forever.... your world will change for sure!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!!

Con - dont plan anything for a day or two. you will feel scratchy and unfortable but it will certainly get better.

Answer 9

If u opt for glasses these will be heavy and cumbersome. So if you are in ur twenties go for it