High Myopia

[osiag]

I am 41 years old and a healthy male.  My perscription for contacts is -9.5 and -9.0 (-11.25 and 10.75 for glassess).  I am concerned because I understand that this degree of myopia carries an increased risk for retina problems and glaucoma.  My questions are:
1) What are the retina problems that I am at an increased risk for?  And what is the absolute of each?  For example, for someone with high myopia, the chance of a detached retina is 1 out of X.
2) How much more likely is it that I develop glaucoma and what type
3) Shoud I been seen regularly be a general opthamologist?  Retina specialist? Gluacoma specialist?
Thank you

[malog]

Why are myopic individuals more likley to develop a cataract?

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

You forgot cataracts.

1)  No statistics, just higher than the general population.

2)  No statistics,  chronic open angle.

3)  A good general ophthalmologist and if concerned a retinal specialist.  Glaucoma specialist not necessary.  The pressure check is routine.
      Do not get treatment for weak areas or lattice unless you have symptoms.

Dr. O.