Re: LASIK AND ASTIGMATISM

Posted By Bob Harris on May 25, 1999 at 14:30:55
I have done a bit of research on Lasik and am now confused as to what would be the my best option when choosing what kind of laser would work best for me.  My prescription is as follows,
       SPHERICAL     CYLINDER      AXIS    PRISM   BASE
O.D.     PLO           -2.50        28      3/4     BD
O.S.     -.25          -2.75       154      3/4     BU
My understanding of this prescription is that the problem is basically all regular astigmatism.  I am 56 years old in perfect health (Jogger) but would like to be free of glasses.  I enjoy flying as a hobby and also can pass a 2nd class FAA physical with no problems.  My corrected vision is 20/15 with a little strain. I expect to possibly fly for hire in the near future and would not want to fail a flight medical.  What is your advise as to the best procedure and laser to use.  I am a bit concerned about problems seeing at night, as I do fly at night a lot and would not want it to effect my night vision. Statements that I have read on other Web sites, claim that night vision problems happen in somewhere near %50 of all surgeries.  Please advise
Bob Harris

[HFHS M.D.-NI]

Posted By HFHS MD - NI on May 25, 1999 at 15:24:29
Bob,
You are correct.  Most of your problem is myopic astigmatism.  This can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or refractive surgery.  LASIK is also able to correct astigmatism and should be effective in your case.  There are several lasers but since you have mild to moderate astigmatism the laser choice is less important.  You need to discuss your situation and your expectations with your ophthalmologist who can then decide which procedure if any is best for you.  
There is some risk of degrading night vision and possibly even best corrected vision.  
This information is provided for educational purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options.
Sincerely,
HFHS MD - NI

[Robert-Haris]

Posted By Robert Harris on May 25, 1999 at 16:30:21
Dr.
I am not sure what is meant by Myopic Astigmatism.  In one of the eyes, since
the Spherical is Plano, I assumed the problem is purely regular astigmatism
with no myopia what so ever.  In the other eye, it only appears to be very mildly myopic IE -.25.  In your opinion, would the doctors at Henry Ford Hospital be able to correct my vision.  My vision is not all that bad without
glasses, but I am unable to drive a car or fly an airplane without them.
I would be able to travel to Michigan for the surgery.  I am originally from there and am well aware of the quality of medical care at Henry Ford. Do you
have a number of who I should call to get more information about what they are
using and price?  How could I get in touch with poeple who had a problem similar to mine and had the surgery done?  Thank you for the information.
Sincerely
Bob Harris
805-527-5090










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