Had Lasik done!!

LilRedRN1973 · Nov 15, 2003

That first link didn' t work...for me at least. But I'm interested in knowing the possible complication from this surgery. The surgeons I've been looking at have done well over 10,000-15,000 surgeries so maybe that will be okay? I'm a bit terrified myself of having this done, but I'm so sick of being blind as a bat (I'm currrently 20/400).

bamamomof4 · Nov 15, 2003

I had LASIK done about a year ago and it's the best $1999 I ever spent.

No more contacts, eye infections or glasses falling off my face and down my nose.

I got LASIK in one eye but PRK on the other. They decided my eye orbits were too small and did PRK on my left eye. It hurt for a day or so (only the left eye) but since then everything has been fine.

Glad you're enjoying your new freedom.

Rdavis101 · Nov 15, 2003

Hi...sorry the link didn't work. Apparently the comma got included into the URL. The correct link is http://www.VisionSimulations.com .

If you're thinking about a particular doctor, you can ask the patients at Surgical Eyes. Most patients are very happy with the surgery. Those that aren't often sign a gag order as part of their legal settlement, which makes it hard to find out who the good docs are and who the bad docs are, and there really are differences.

You might also check http://www.LasikInfoCenter.net , which has postings of actual lawsuits. Checking to this degree is somewhat distasteful, but you can consider it part of your homework in selecting a good surgeon.

Roger

Frau Blucher · May 14, 2005

The procedure took less than 15 minutes for both eyes. I didn't feel a thing. I paid "out of pocket" less than $2000.00 (including follow ups, enhancements if needed, supplies and etc.) which isn't that much considering that I use to pay $1000.00 per year for new contacts/eyeglasses.

Curious1alwys, BSN, RN · May 14, 2005

Lasik was a miracle for me. So amazing!!! FOR ABOUT A YEAR AND A HALF, until........

I realized that the TV was getting fuzzier. Took me a while to realize that maybe I wasn't seeing as clearly, cuz you know, you get used to seeing that way. By the time I finally realized that something wasn't right (I could barely see night driving) I went to the eye doc. She said my vision had regressed! :no:

WHAT???????????

Seems I dont remember them telling me that COULD happen. Apparantly it is a smaller percentage of people. They said I was a good candidate but for some reason, genetic maybe, the LASIK did not take. Anyway, by the time I realized what had happened, the "warranty" was over. If I wanted it corrected back to the 20/15 I had the day after surgery, I would have to pay for it ALL OVER AGAIN!! I now sit at 20/40 in one eye and 20/60 in the other. It has been about three years since I had the procedure done and my vision is just getting worse. I now have glasses (again). :rolleyes:

Honestly, I would love to have it done again but I guess it would be stupid to if it was just going to regress again. Some people would say I picked the wrong doc, but how do you know? Do I just have to spend a grand again to find out? Makes me sad because I lead an active lifestyle and wearing glasses is a real burden.

Just want to let you all know out there to make sure you ASK ABOUT VISION REGRESSION. It can and does happen. Mine was so blurry that I could not drive at night a year and a half after my procedure. The warranty was only good for one year. Make sure you go to your post lasik vision appts even if you feel you are seeing fine. I went to the first two, but not the third. Possibly, my vision had deteriorated by the third visit, but I just hadn't noticed it. Also, find out about the warranty and corrective procedures if the lasik does not take!!

Good Luck to you all! I know I am the exception and that Lasik can be life changing! That feeling of waking up the next day to a crisp, clear world is thrilling!!

Janice

PennyLane, RN · May 14, 2005

I'm planning on having Lasik with CustomVue (the newer option) on June 24th. Remember for those with bad outcomes: glare, halos, etc., that there are a number of factors involved including the size of one's pupils, degree of correction needed, cornea thickness, and how light is transmitted through the eye. Each person's eyes are different. Each case needs to be considered individually.

I'm told my pupils are moderately large, and that 5 years ago I would not have been eligible. I've had two consultations at different doctor's offices. Both recommended CustomVue due to its ability to significantly reduce problems with glare and halos. Light scatters very evenly throughout my eye, one thing I have in my favor. Also my prescription is on the mild/moderate line (although it's worse than 20/400!). My corneas are also of a good thickness.

Yes, I'm scared, but feel that this will be a good thing. Many people I know have had it done.

FNimuaeMae · May 14, 2005

I had the surgery in Montreal, Canada almost exactly 3 years ago. It was $3000 total, and I had a procedure which at the time wasn't approved in US by the FDA...Zyoptix, which mapped the surface of the cornea for a more precise outcome. Before surgery, I could only focus on my hand if it was 4 inches from my face. I was SO nearsighted!! I couldn't do things like whitewater kayaking for fear I'd lose my contacts when I'd flip underwater accidentially. I almost had that happen once, and it scared me cos I would have never made it going blind as a bat down the river.

My eyes burned intensely for 6 hours after the surgery, but exactly around the time the people at the clinic said, they felt fine, and I could see GREAT! I still do see great. It might not be quite as crisp as it initially was but I am getting older as well. My fiance got his done at the same place as me based on my recommendations and he hasn't regretted it either. I think what it really comes down to is having the pre-op testing done by a doctor that has done it many times and will tell you honestly if you are a good candidate for the surgery. I have no regrets.

Missy:p