laser eye surgery

[Tat]

what's it like? how good is it? i have an astigmatism, it can't change that ca it?

[sft42]

Last Question first...yes it can. It can alter vision up -6.0 and +3.0 dioptres and correct astigmatism at the same time. See here http://www.optimaxuk.co.uk/optimax/correcting_eyes
ight.html for more info on the technicalities.

Working on reverse order, How good is it? Well I now have slightly better than 20/20 vision in my left eye, and a very small (less than -0.25) flaw in my right....so as a bike rider and frequent sporty type I would say it was great as it has given me back nearly perfect sight, although it's worth stressing here that this isn't always the case with everyone and they will consult with you over realistic expectations in your own case.

Lastly, What's it like? Well the thought of someone mucking about with your eyes isn't a nice thought even for someone like me who has been through it. All the preperations are just like an ordinary (though very intensive) eye test.

The actual surgery itself only takes about 15 minutes and isn't pleasant, though not painful in anyway.....one odd thing is the smell given off as the laser re-shapes your cornea is very similar to burning hair....a small clamp is applied to your eye to stop you blinking, then some eye drops, and then the laser does its stuff.

I would say if you have an active lifestyle, or need quite strong corrective lenses then give it a bash...the price has dropped a fair bit recently (�500 per eye) and if you say glasses cost about �100 a pair, then you'll see that it would pay for itself in a few years.

PS. If you do decide to get it done let me know and I'll recommend you......I get �25 for each person I recommend :>)

[PaulB]

Astigmatism? Yes.

[kalise25]

I'm an optometrist, and if you're short-sighted (ie can't see things in the distance/you wear a minus prescription) with a moderate amount of astigmatism (up to 2.50 Dioptres) you should get a good result from laser eye surgery. Make sure you go to a reputable clinic. Ensure you have a pre-op consultation with the person who will be carrying out the procedure. Make sure they measure your pupils as well - if they laser an area that is smaller than your pupil diameter, you'll end up with night time glare (very bothersome). The most common side effect is slightly dry eyes for a time after the op.It feels like you've slept in your contact lenses, or been in a really smoky pub for too long! They'll give you artificial tear drops to deal with this. Do bear in mind that this is an operation and there is a risk involved, but it is the most successful operation being carried out in the UK today - something like 97% of people have unaided vision that is good enough to meet the legal requirements for driving five years after their initial treatment. Best of luck!

[coemgen]

I'm not bothered about getting perfect vision, I just want as near to normal vision as I can. I have Astigmatism and have very bad myopia, can laser surgery help me? Or is it only if your eyesight isn't VERY bad?

[Tat]

visit sft42's link and then you can get sent more info.

[Marsh]

The February 2005 edition of Which? has an article on laser eye surgery providers - your local public library should have a copy. I think anyone considering eye surgery would be wise to read this article and ask the clinic certain questions before making a final decision.