LASIK

Posted by Brandi on July 25, 1999 at 01:05:44
I had lasik surgery almost exactly two years ago.  It was a God send, I had -10.50 in one eye and -10.75 in the other. I also had moderate astigmatism. 1 day after the surgery I had 20/25 in one and 20/40 in the other.  Eventually it was 20/25 in both. They have regressed a little,(about 20/30) not enough for an enhancement but the astigmatism is such that I do have to wear thin glasses to read well.  (which doesn't bother me after the glasses I DID have to wear)
I have 2 questions.  First, do you know why my night vision is so terrible now?  It's never been great, but I can't hardly drive a car now at night it is so bad. And 2, how much of a factor is heredity in nearsightedness?  I have 2 children, and I am hoping they will not have to go through the terrible time I did.  Thank you.

Posted by HFHS MD - NI on July 27, 1999 at 19:31:27
Nearsightedness can be hereditary, especially the amount that you are describing.  Your children should be followed by an ophthalmologist; unfortunately, however, there is nothing we can do to prevent them from developing it if they are destined to.  In the future some new preventitive treatment may be available.
In regards to the LASIK, it sounds like you have an excellent outcome.  Night vision can be somewhat less clear because the pupil is most dilated at night and sometimes dilates bigger than the area of treatment.  This can induce blurry vision or halos.  It is not possible to safely make the area of treatment much bigger.  Another possibility could be some haze in the treated area.  This can be examined by your ophthalmologist.
This information is provided for educational purposes only.