Newsvine - Q&A: FDA Takes a Closer Look at Lasik

Q&A on Alternative Medicine
By Robert Bazell
Q&A: FDA Takes a Closer Look at Lasik
By Robert Bazell
Concern rises over chemicals in plastic bottles
Newsvine (Seeded By Robert Bazell)
An often-misdiagnosed brain ailment
Newsvine (Seeded By Robert Bazell)
The man with the sticky memory
Newsvine (Seeded By Robert Bazell)
Deadly flu strain
Newsvine (Seeded By Robert Bazell)
The Pill: Prophylactic against cancer?
Newsvine (Seeded By Robert Bazell)
For heart health, keep on the sunny side
Newsvine (Seeded By Robert Bazell)

Robert Bazell has not voted for any articles or seeds yet.

Dr. Bazell,

I was very confused by your report on the PSA test (March 18, 2009) I have additional questions:

Biopsies on the prostate are done when the PSA level is elevated. So if the patient has the test, they're 47 times more likely to be harmed? On the other hand, if you discourage patients from getting the PSA test aren't you raising the possibility that someone with cancer may not be screened and could therefore die of prostate cancer?

Is the problem with the test, or the problem with the biopsy? And what's the alternative here if the PSA is unreliable?

Thanks, James

— nightlyfan

Dear Mr. Bazell:

Congratulations on your story last night. As a lens and laser based refractive surgeon who had LASIK on my own eyes over 11 years ago, I would hope that the news media would also choose to focus on the positive aspects of refractive surgery. It has been my experience that the vast majority of patients who undergo refractive surgery, myself included, have a positive life-changing experience as a result of laser vision correction. I have performed over 20,000 laser vision procedures since 1993, and can count on one hand the number of patients who wish they did not have the procedure done.

While my heart goes out to the patient that you focused on in your news story, my guess is that this patient had surgery by a relatively inexperienced, non fellowship-trained surgeon who did not properly test for dry eye prior to LASIK. Typically, patients like the one who you described have underlying dry eye prior to the procedure. Patients like this should be properly screened prior to surgery and offered alternative procedures such as PRK or Visian ICL to minimize the risk of tragedies like you described.

As a refractive surgeon who has experienced the postive life-changing experience of LASIK, I would hope that the news media would depict a balanced view of refractive surgery for their audience. As such, I would like to request that you consider giving some news coverage to a 6 year old little girl that I will be performing Visian ICL on in the next few weeks. The patient has unilateral high myopia, and is intolerant of contact lenses and is unable to wear glasses because of her anisometropia (difference in power between eyes). In the past, this eye would simply have been left alone to reamain blind for the rest of her life. As a result of a refractive surgery procedure called Visian ICL, combined with patching of her good eye, this patient has a significant chance of obtaining more normal vision in this eye that would previously have been considered blind.

Again, thank you for your interest in educating the public about refractive surgery.

Regards,

Paul J. Dougherty, MD
Medical Director
Doughety Laser Vision
Los Angeles, CA
www.doughertylaservision.com
cell 805.444.2015

— Paul Dougherty, MD

I read recently where the trend in LASIK eye surgery nowadays is away from
cutting a flap and just reshaping the eyeball with the laser beam. Reportedly,
this is a safer procedure than cutting a flap and avoids problems like "dry eye."
Is there any truth to this?

— David Ames

Jump to discussion page: 1 2 3 ... 8

{"commentId":1730739,"authorDomain":"dubephnx"}

Randy Lee DubeDeleted

{"commentId":1730865,"authorDomain":"JD24"}

Jim D.

I'm a 55 year-old male, both near-sighted and needing reading glasses, too. If I get Lasik surgery: 1. Can it correct BOTH my nearsightedness AND my reading prescription. And 2. Even after Lasik, if my reading prescriptions further worsens (I seem to need a new, stronger, reading prescription every 2 years,), then it seems to me that I'll still be needing glasses in the future. Right?

{"commentId":1730865,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"JD24"}

2 votes

#2 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:49 PM EDT

{"commentId":1732057,"authorDomain":"MinnieApolis"}

MinnieApolis

Most people over 40 will need reading glasses after the surgery.
You will need them to see and read anything within an arm's length, generally speaking.
This is standard -- Now having said that, I am somewhat of an exception. I had Lasik done in 2005, and about a year and a half later I had regressed to the point that I need glasses in order to drive (and retain my driver's license). But my vision was very bad before surgery, about 20/700. So I am still better off than before the surgery. Lasik is NOT for people who have little or moderate correction needed. People with 20/100 or 20/200 are better off with glasses or contacts. Please.

{"commentId":1732057,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"MinnieApolis"}

#2.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 2:09 AM EDT

{"commentId":1732807,"authorDomain":"katrixx"}

katrix

I had Lasik in January 2003 and love the results (was about 20/800 before that). I'm getting close to where I will need reading glasses, though - but I'm almost 45 so I can't complain about that.

{"commentId":1732807,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"katrixx"}

#2.2 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 10:21 AM EDT

{"commentId":1733451,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

Robert Bazell

It is very common for people who get LASIK to need reading glasses especially as they get older. In fact many near sided people who would not have needed reading glasses end up needing them after LASIK.

Reminder I am not a physician and nothing said here should be construed as medical advice

{"commentId":1733451,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

1 vote

#2.3 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:25 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733686,"authorDomain":"nkbiggs1"}

nkbiggs1

I had Lasik done on both eyes about two years ago. I had been nearsighted since I was in 8th grade. It was amazing how wonderful my distance vision was even in just 24 hours. But, as great as my distance was, I immediately noticed a HUGE change in my upclose vision, just like Christine. When I went back to my followup appointment, I commented on the fact my upclose vision was blurry. I was told that was probably a short term side effect. I now have reading glasses that are +4.25. That is a drastic change from not needing anything. It did not get any better and has just been slowly getting worse. I am only 37 and neither of my parents needed reading glasses until their 50s. My distance vision is still 20/20 though.

{"commentId":1733686,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"nkbiggs1"}

#2.4 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 1:16 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733713,"authorDomain":"DrKnow"}

Dr Know

The need for reading glasses is due to the thickening of the lens inside the eye itself. It gets thicker and loses elasticity which prevents the muscles inside the eye from shaping the lens so that you can have close vision. This is where cataracts form as well. This is where the internal lenses are installed if needed.

There is no surgery in the cornea which is on the surface of the eye, that will preclude the need for reading glasses. If you are fortunate enough to enjoy a temporary improvement in the ability to read, the aging process will proceed at its own pace.

{"commentId":1733713,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"DrKnow"}

#2.5 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 1:20 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730869,"authorDomain":"egny7"}

Ellen-272147

I had Lasik just under 8 years ago, and while it took about a month to stabilize, I was happy with the results. However, over the past year or so, I have noticed a decline in my vision, and I just caved in and filled a prescription for glasses, albeit a fraction of my pre-Lasik one. I'd like to know how common regression is and if my vision will continue to worsen. Also, what percentage of Lasik patients are good candidates for an enhancement years later?

Thank you.

{"commentId":1730869,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"egny7"}

#3 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:51 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733463,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

The ehancement question is not really well understood because LASIK is only a decade oold

{"commentId":1733463,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#3.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:28 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730871,"authorDomain":"kdbialiy"}

Kim Bialiy

I had Lasik Surgery last year. Do the adverse symptoms typically appear right after the surgery? I have no adverse symptoms, however wonder if this is something that may appear as time goes on.
Thank you

{"commentId":1730871,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"kdbialiy"}

#4 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:51 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733482,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

Again problems usually appear soon after the procedure

{"commentId":1733482,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#4.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:34 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730877,"authorDomain":"fairy92606"}

A. Mayho

Dear Robert Bazell,

I recently saw your segment on LASIK eye surgery on the Nightly News. I have heard of a new sort of lens or corneal replacement surgery, where the surgeon implants a soft silicon lens into the eye to recreate perfect vision. What are the benefits and risks of this surgery? Also, I understand that many Americans now travel to other countries for elective surgery procedures. Is LASIK a common surgery in other countries, and if so, are the risks equal to or worse than those here in the United States?

{"commentId":1730877,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"fairy92606"}

#5 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:52 PM EDT

{"commentId":1734031,"authorDomain":"prsutton123"}

P. Sutton

I had Lasik Surgery in my left eye, and an Artisan Lens implant in my right eye, which is what you are referring to, eight years ago. At the time the Artisan Lens implant procedure was undergoing FDA trials, and I was a guinnea pig. My eyesight was so poor before surgery that it did not even measure on the chart. I was legally blind. I also had alot of astigmatism. At first, the plan was to have Lasik in both eyes, but the best outcome was estimated to be 20/25 or 20/30. I was planning to pursue a career in law enforcement so I really needed it to be 20/20 at least in one eye to avoid the requirement for glasses. My surgeon said that with an Artisan Lens implant in one eye that I might be able to obtain 20/20 vision. Long story short, both eyes ended up 20/25 at first, and the Lasik eye has regressed over the eight years to 20/30. The Artisan Lens eye is still 20/25. Considering I was legally blind before, I would do it again in an instant. Anyway, consider both options, and ask your surgeon which one might be the best option for you. Also, most importantly choose your eye surgeon very carefully. Your vision is not an area where you want to go cheap.

{"commentId":1734031,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"prsutton123"}

#5.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 2:15 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730892,"authorDomain":"mteske62"}

Mike Teske

I did not hear how long after surgery did the patients start having problems? I had PRK 15 July 2004 and want to know if there could be problems coming up.

{"commentId":1730892,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"mteske62"}

#6 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:56 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733468,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

Problems usually appear soon after the procedure..

{"commentId":1733468,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#6.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:29 PM EDT

{"commentId":1734208,"authorDomain":"mteske62"}

Thank you Mr. Bazell for your honesty and information. I will contact my eye doctor and get further information.

{"commentId":1734208,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"mteske62"}

#6.2 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 2:48 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730895,"authorDomain":"cconkey"}

Claire-272159

I, like many others, have worn glasses or hard and soft contact lenses since childhood. Facing cataract surgery in May, I've been give the option of the new Crystalens, a hinged flexible lens which corrects vision at all distances IF it works correctly. My other options would be the traditional lens for distance and the mono lens. There isn't much data on the success rate and they are not covered by insurance, costing $2,000 each out of pocket. Is there any information you have come across to help me with my decision before surgery?

{"commentId":1730895,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"cconkey"}

#7 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:58 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733472,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

Sorry no. That oen is way beyond my reporting scope

{"commentId":1733472,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#7.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:30 PM EDT

{"commentId":1734716,"authorDomain":"dml"}

Dan-272776

Clare, I started getting cataracts at a young age (I am now 50). I have had the Crystalens implanted in both eyes and have been pretty happy with them. I still have to wear mild reading glasses for up close work, but I am told that there is more accomodation with the Crytalens than with standard IOLs. It does take a few days to stabilize, so don't expect immediate perfect vision. The recovery is pretty easy; you just keep to keep using eye drops for a few weeks. Also, my vision has actually gotten a little better over time as the lens has set. It does not correct asigmatism, however, so you may not be able to get 20/20 with the implant alone. I am considering Lasik in the eye with the astigamtism, which is why I was reading this thread. Good luck.

{"commentId":1734716,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"dml"}

#7.2 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 4:45 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730896,"authorDomain":"pclantz"}

Perry Lantz

I am concerned about plastic baby bottles. I currently use Dr. Brown's bottles for my 10 1/2 week old son, should I start using glass bottles - is he in danger because of these plastic bottles?

{"commentId":1730896,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"pclantz"}

#8 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:58 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733701,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

What we can say about plastic bottles is that the scince is still incomplete. However the Candian governmetn did ban plastic baby bottles that give off the chemical bisphenol A or BPA. Wal-Mart and many other companies in the US are stopping selling them as are many companies that make them

{"commentId":1733701,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#8.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 1:18 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730899,"authorDomain":"lynnphares"}

Lynn L.

I'm wondering whether the complications of lasik mentioned on the newscast were immediate, or
whether those complications can develop years later. (I had lasik surgery about 6 years ago.)

{"commentId":1730899,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"lynnphares"}

3 votes

#9 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:59 PM EDT

{"commentId":1736268,"authorDomain":"highroad-1"}

Natalie-272229

Lynn, the one to watch out for is dry eye. It is a frequent side effect of menopause and there is the possibility that the Lasik may aggravate that due to the severing of the corneal nerves.

Also, Lasik artifically raises the Intra Ocular pressure so being screened for glaucoma becomes more difficult as an elevated IOP is one of the warnings.

I have heard that cataract surgey is also more difficult for Lasik patients but I have not read up on that yet. I am still trying to deal with the severe dry eye/ghosting and night driving problems.

{"commentId":1736268,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"highroad-1"}

#9.1 - Sat Apr 26, 2008 6:53 AM EDT

{"commentId":1730902,"authorDomain":"msilvers"}

Micky Silvers

Dear Dr. Bazell,

Brian Williams stated this PM that you would be commenting on the issue of the plastis drinking bottles.

Just what is the "Bottom Line" on these bottles that are identified with a "7" in the triangle ID symbol?

My kids love them for thier unbreakable element -- great for camping, hiking, etc.

Looking forward to your comments.

My Best,

{"commentId":1730902,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"msilvers"}

#10 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:00 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733501,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

The number 7 is in a very tiny circle of arrows at the bottom of the bottles. It is intended to give recyclers an idea of how to reuse the material in the bottle. But the number 7 does indicate the presence of bisphenol-A (or BPA) the chemical that the US and Canadian governments have expressed some concern about – particularly the effects on small children

{"commentId":1733501,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#10.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:38 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730904,"authorDomain":"anglswings"}

Debe Soule

I was happy to see the truth about "vision correction" surgery. The hype about it is all positive. I had always had perfect vision. When I was approaching 50, I needed .1 glasses to see menus or the phone book. Not too bad...but still I hated glasses. So I went to the most prominent Lasik Physician (well, most advertised is more truthful) and had my right eye done. Over the next 6-8 weeks I went blind in that eye.
I then was referred to a group of professionals who actually looked inside my eye and tested it and took photos. There was a remark made to me that on the inside it looked just like a 'laser burn'. They worked for a year to try and get some of my vision back with photo-dyne therapy and shots of avastin. Nothing helped. I wanted to sue the original Dr. Now I just want to warn others. He took no physical or history or did any test. If anyone has the cash, he'll do the surgery. It's like a factory. You just have to pay ahead of time.
It's so wrong and it's high time the FDA gets involved. My vanity cost me the vision in my right eye. Just imagine if I had both eyes done!
(I have the photo of the inside of my eye and the damage but I couldn't attach it)

{"commentId":1730904,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"anglswings"}

#11 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:01 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733890,"authorDomain":"smw03842"}

Sarah in NH

Comment collapsed by the community

{"commentId":1734035,"authorDomain":"ufwolf1971"}

Jon-272667

I would agree with you, however, even the best doctors perform surgeries with side effects. The doctor who performed LASIK on me had successfully operated on 8 friends and someone I work with had it done on the same day. My doctor has performed 10,000 surgeries and he never had a complication like mine (CTK). Ultimately I will be fine but the one piece of advice I would give from my experience which was not offered to me (and I didn't ask for it) is do one eye at a time.

{"commentId":1734035,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"ufwolf1971"}

#11.2 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 2:16 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730907,"authorDomain":"ladykar"}

Marie Karow

What number inside the little triangle ,on the bottom of plastic items are considered safe is it a 3,5 or 7. Is there a web-site where we can go to check this out or should just throw all our plastic away, because it it all contains bisphenol A Thank-you Mrs. Karow , a concerned Gramma.

{"commentId":1730907,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"ladykar"}

#12 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:01 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733517,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

The most concern is about bottles with the number 7 because they could give off the chemical that can mimic the female hormone estrogen. But bottles with the number 3 and 6 give off other chemicals that some scientists and environmentalists are concerned about

{"commentId":1733517,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#12.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:41 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733555,"authorDomain":"gasaraki"}

Peter-272614

Hope this helps.

Replace the xx with tt

{"commentId":1733555,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"gasaraki"}

#12.2 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:49 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730910,"authorDomain":"pattypoo11"}

Pat Scoggins

Dr. Bazell

I am considering having the Lasik Surgery. I am farsighted. I tend to have dry eyes. Should this be a concern for me.

Thank You

{"commentId":1730910,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"pattypoo11"}

#13 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:01 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733118,"authorDomain":"christinebeattie50"}

Christine from New Mexico

If you have dry eyes, a reputable doctor should not even consider you for Lasik Surgery as the condition is likely to increase after surgery. I was left with a dent on my eye. When I blink the tears pool in the dent and very little gets to the rest of my eye. I wake up during the night and every morning with headaches and pain in my eyes because they are so dry. So mornings I cannot even open them without wetting them first.

{"commentId":1733118,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"christinebeattie50"}

#13.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 11:22 AM EDT

{"commentId":1733527,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

From what I have heard from doctors the answer would be yes on both counts. Be sure to talk to several LASIK doctors before deciding to go ahead, if you do

{"commentId":1733527,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#13.2 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:42 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730914,"authorDomain":"momcoleman"}

Marie from Corning NY

I had lasix surgery in 2001 in Fort Erie, Canada. They (Dr. Patricia Teal) had been doing lasix for 11 years in Canada which is why I did not elect to have it in the US. Excellent job for $1800 total for both eyes. No scarring, no problems. Distance vision is still very good, 20/40 at worst. No dry eyes and no "halos" when seeing oncoming lights after the first few months. The only issue is seeing "up close" which is an aging process anyway. I am still thrilled I did it. I can see the clock when I get up in the night and most especially, NO GLASSES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

{"commentId":1730914,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"momcoleman"}

#14 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:02 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730919,"authorDomain":"popi2"}

David Cowan

When it comes to giving medical advise why do you get so little time to give all of the facts. With regard to the lasik surgery episode, you made it sound like there is a very good chance that if you have the surgery you will have a problem. Why don't you inform the public as to what percent of the people having surgery encounter a significant problem. i'm sure that a small percentage oif people having warts removed have a problem. You couls interview one of those individuals and scare people off of wart removal.

I'm not an eye doctor, or not any kind of doctor. My wife had interlace surgery. It worked terriofically, and in the long run saved us thousands of dollars on glasses and contacts. I'm sure that there are bad doctorse, but I have a strong feeling that you did a diservice to people thinking of lasik surgery. What are the chances percentagewise that you will have a problem, and more impotrantley what suggestions do you have in selecting a doctor to perform the surgery? This advise would be helpful, not showing one individual that had a problem. Lets help people, not scare them!

{"commentId":1730919,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"popi2"}

#15 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:04 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733549,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

This is an interesting and important question. As I said in my report, there is no question that the vast majority of LASIK patients are satisfied with their outcomes. But LASIK machines, like medications, win FDA approval on the basis of trials involving a thousand patients at most, often by the most highly trained doctors . It is only when the laser (or medicine) gets out into the real world and millions of people start to use it, that anyone starts to get a sense of the complication rate. The FDA ahs said it has no idea what the true complication rate is and that is a major reason for today's hearing. Even if the complication rate is relatively low, among millions it can mean a lot of suffering

{"commentId":1733549,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#15.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:47 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730924,"authorDomain":"ocilene"}

Ilene R

I always had perfect, 20/20 vision..until I hit 40. Now at 46, I feel like my vision is getting worse and worse all the time. Does lasik work for age-related visual loss?

{"commentId":1730924,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"ocilene"}

#16 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:05 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733567,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

Certainly not as well as for correcting near-sightedness that begins at a young age. Check thoroughly with several doctors

{"commentId":1733567,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#16.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:51 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730944,"authorDomain":"jillemmanuel"}

Helen-272176

I am considering getting LASIK and have been told I am an excellent candidate. I have been wearing soft contacts since the age of 15 and they have started irritating me. The doctor has prescribed that I start eyewash and erythromycin ointment along with Doryx 2 weeks prior and then I am supposed to take a bunch of meds (Pred Forte, Muro drops, Vigamox) closer to the surgery. I plan to undergo IVF after the surgery. Do you foresee any complications?

{"commentId":1730944,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"jillemmanuel"}

#17 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:09 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733576,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

If is critical you talk to your fertility specialist about any possible interactions with medications you are taking for any purpose, including LASIK

{"commentId":1733576,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#17.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:53 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730956,"authorDomain":"smokey24"}

Michael Healey

Sir,
I had Lasik surgery on both eyes about 8 years ago. I was near sighted, but not severely (about 20/80). After the surgery, my doctor told me I would likely need reading glasses regardless by the time I turn 50. Well, I have 2 years to go, and he was right though usually only in areas with poor lighting or smaller print. However, more recently I have noticed that my vision has diminished for distance, as well as, at night.

Question: Can I have the surgery again to correct these symptoms or is a one time fix and then back to contacts, glasses and blurred vision?

{"commentId":1730956,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"smokey24"}

#18 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:12 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730960,"authorDomain":"lindach234"}

Linda-272182

Hello Mr. Bazell
I just recently had the Mono vision Lasik done in the last month, first it was my right eye to see up close. I had some vision problems within a week and went in again, I was told that the other eye needed to be done for distance as it had rapidly changed from the strain. So, now both eyes have been done, and I am still having problems, of course the dry eye, but the vision is by far much worse then before I had anything done. I am now wearing 2 different pairs of prescription glasses, 1 pair for driving to see distance with both eyes, and 1 pair to see things clearly up close. I was told that if necessary the procedure can be reversed to have both eyes set for distance, but not for at least another month. What are your thoughts on having the procedure reversed in my case. Am I running more of a risk or will it be for the better. My older brother had both of his eyes done 4 months ago for distance only and suffers from no after effects, his vision has been improved greatly. I'm just really worried about doing this again to reverse, but I know I can't stand the way it is now or function well.

Thank you
Linda

{"commentId":1730960,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"lindach234"}

#19 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:15 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730966,"authorDomain":"tharrington"}

Harry Tharry

How does Lasic surgery differ from PRK? I had cataract surgery on both eyes last year using ReStor lens. I subsequently had PRK on both eyes to alleviate astigmatism. Vision in the right eye is relatively good although it is complicated by a large floater in front of the optic nerve. PRK on the left eye was performed 7 weeks ago, and my vision is much worse in that eye than before the surgery. What is the likelihood that vision in the left eye will gradually become more focused over time? Any general comments on my overall experience will be appreciated. Thank you.

{"commentId":1730966,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"tharrington"}

#20 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:16 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733583,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

You can get good descriptions of the difference between LASIK and PRK on the FDA website www.fda.gov

{"commentId":1733583,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#20.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:54 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730971,"authorDomain":"anglswings"}

I always had perfect vision. As I approached my 50th birthday I couldn't read menus or the phone book. I needed .1 reading glasses. I hated them! So I decided to have "vision correction" surgery.
I went to the most 'popular' and most advertised 'specialist' in the field. I have since found out, all that meant was his business was a 'factory'. There was no physical or history taken and no tests done. What qualified me for being a candidate was that I had the cash. In and out in 15 minutes total (less than 5 in the actual surgical room). Then over the following 6-8 weeks I went blind in that eye.

The next year I saw specialists, had tests, photos, cold laser therapy and avastin injections. I still am legally blind in my right eye. There is a perfectly round black area in the middle of my vision and I have a slight circle of peripheral vision, that is of little use to me.

I was not a candidate for the surgery. But the FDA is not regulating this industry so I had no advocate on my side. I believed the hype I read and paid for it ahead of time.
Imagine that. I paid to be blinded. This butcher is still greatly advertised and every time I see one of his commercials I want to yell through the TV to warn others.

So here I am yelling! Don't do it! Wait until the FDA investigates this. There are no guideline. I can't even sue the man as my total paperwork fit on one half of a page. No details. No one else in his line of work willing to stand up against him to testify.

My vanity cost me my right eye.
PLEASE, if you are considering this surgery...make sure you can afford the loss of vision. You may end up with the worst results, like me.
(I wanted to attach a photo of the inside of my eye to show the damage but I couldn't do it here)

{"commentId":1730971,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"anglswings"}

#21 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:17 PM EDT

{"commentId":1734390,"authorDomain":"sunshine6"}

Dr. Brazell

Debe, Sorry to hear about your terrible ordeal. I had Lasik in 2001 and my eyes like the man on msnbc on Wed night, have been severely dry, almost intolerable at times 24/7/365 I thought it would be great not to wear glasses after wearing them from grade school on. I guess when I got Lasik done I thought it would end the anoyances of wearing glasses, boy was I wrong. I would trade these eyes for my old ones any day. Dryed up in Niagara Falls

{"commentId":1734390,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"sunshine6"}

#21.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 3:28 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730973,"authorDomain":"doherty4"}

Debra from Ky

Dear Dr. Bazell, I have two little grandbabies who are using Playtex Vent-Air bottles. I have looked, but these bottles have NO number on them. Are these bottles safe to use, or should we switch to glass?
Thank you for any advice you have for us; a concerned Nana.

{"commentId":1730973,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"doherty4"}

#22 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:17 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730985,"authorDomain":"audrey-a"}

Audrey Anderson

I had Lasik done in both my eyes apx. 1998. I had a cateract removed from my right eye and an implant was put in place apx. in 2002. In May of 2007 I suffered with a retnal detachment of the right eye. I have had 4 operations and I have little to no field of vision, and only see shapes of things a few feet in front of me. I do have monocular vision in that eye. No one can tell me what caused this. I was a truck driver in the construction trade before this happened. Now I have no job. Could this be a
result of Lasik surgery?

{"commentId":1730985,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"audrey-a"}

#23 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:20 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730988,"authorDomain":"sgarnic"}

Susan N

The water cooler bottle in my office has the number 7 in the triangle. Is this a concern? Thank you.

{"commentId":1730988,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"sgarnic"}

#24 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:21 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733595,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

The Candadian goverment has said there is no danger to adults from drinking from any plastic bottles. A US government agency has said there is "some concern" about breast and prostate cancer risk in adults. That equates to a risk of 3 on a scale of 1 to 5. If you are worried can you get water from the tap?

{"commentId":1733595,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#24.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:57 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730993,"authorDomain":"doherty4"}

{"commentId":1730993,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"doherty4"}

#25 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:22 PM EDT

{"commentId":1733892,"authorDomain":"bazell"}

Playtex is changing to bottles that are free of the chemcials. It is hard to know about the ones you have now. But if you are worried you could sitch to glass for a while

{"commentId":1733892,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"bazell"}

#25.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 1:53 PM EDT

{"commentId":1730996,"authorDomain":"parkerm007"}

mike p-272195

I had Lasik surgery 2000, 10 surgeries later, two that were corneal transplants. This procedure cost me my six figure career with a fortune 500 company, all my hobbies. And all I hear from the media is "do your homework", I did, board certified, 20 years a surgeon, most expensive surgeon, bad choice.
Question: I know the truth is not being told as to how many people have had horrible results. Is it like the FAA, inspecting the planes? Yes, I found out I should of never had the surgery. A little late. Did I tell you the Dr. said i was a perfect candidate. Guess what, another cover up? We just need some reporters that care.

{"commentId":1730996,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"parkerm007"}

#26 - Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:23 PM EDT

{"commentId":1734311,"authorDomain":"minemm01"}

Mike Nemmers

Mike,
I had LASIK in 1998. Like you , my doctor told me it would be "a slam dunk." After the surgery, I had good vision and no problems for only one week. I then developed an intense burning sensation , like soap in your eyes. I went back to the surgeon, he lifted the corneal flaps and rinsed underneath them. I soon developed an infection in my right eye. At times, it was the most severe pain I have ever experienced. My mother went on the Internet, and told me that I should be on Amikacin. I wrote it down, but instead, listened to the surgeon, after all he is the one with 13 years of schooling, and he put me on another drug, which had to be made in San Jose, CA, shipped overnight and refrigerated. I had to put drops in my right eye every 30 minutes for a month. The doctor said don't worry, "I'll take care of it." Two months later, the infection got worse, and the doctor said, "Sorry, I can't help you anymore." I ended up at the Mayo Clinic where they removed my right corneal flap, crushed it up and cultured it. Turns out I had a Myco bacterial infection. Needless to say, the infection scarred my cornea, and vision in the right eye is not correctable. I looked at the bottle of drops they were giving me post-op, and it was Amikacin, the same drug my mother told me I should have been on 3 months before that. I fell terrible about that to this day. If I only had listened to my mother instead of the arrogant, know-it -all, narcissistic doctor, I would have been okay today.

How was your experience with the corneal transplants?

{"commentId":1734311,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"minemm01"}

#26.1 - Fri Apr 25, 2008 3:09 PM EDT

{"commentId":1749660,"authorDomain":"ohno00"}

CK-274785

YES YES YES. I cannot empasize enough how much oversight is needed in this (LASIK) area. I too did my homework - researched LASIK, researched surgeons, researched alternatives. Found what I thought would be the ideal surgeon - teaches at Northwestern University, had been performing the surgery for 10 years. Although I had given up contacts because of a dry eye condition, he found me to be an 'ideal' candidate. Unfortunately, the night after the surgery, my eyes were so dry that when I woke in the morning, the flap on my right eye had adhered to my eyelid, and when I opened my eye, it pulled the flap loose. No pain, but serious damage. Although he reattached it later that day, the damage was permanent. While I now suffer from extreme dry eye, halos, starbursts, and multiple vision in both eyes, the right eye is SO much worse.

And I can also understand the individual who commited suicide over LASIK damage to his eyes...you feel you have only yourself to blame (even though the surgeon was the one who told you were an ideal candidate) because it was elective surgery. And you feel helpless because there is no way to fix the damage. The emotional impact is HUGE; my surgery was over 5 years ago, and I am still depressed because there is nothing that can be done to repair my vision - glasses do not correct the problems. Yes, I can see enough to walk around without glasses, but what I see is adulterated by the multiple images, the haziness (like someone smeared oil across the surface of my eye), and at night by the distortion of light (halos, starbursts, malabsorbtion of light - I cannot distinguish anything in darker areas - walking down the street at night is terrifying because while I can see light sources, the rest of my field of vision is completely darkk - I cannot even see where I am putting my feet!)
Anyone considering LASIK, PLEASE be honest with yourself. If you have even the slightesst problem with dryness in your eyes, DO NOT GET LASIK. Yes, the surgeon may tell you you are a good candidate, and that your dryness does not fall within the 'danger zone'. But they are YOUR eyes. And once it's done, it's done, there's no going back.

{"commentId":1749660,"threadId":"255136","contentId":"1450620","authorDomain":"ohno00"}

#26.2 - Wed Apr 30, 2008 7:52 AM EDT

	A New Look at the Risks of LASIK Surgery	ABC News	Wed Apr 23	19
	Federal panel seeks clearer warnings on Lasik eye surgery	Associated Press	Thu Apr 24	10

Q&A: FDA Takes a Closer Look at Lasik

Published to:

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

Q&A on Alternative Medicine

FUN STUFF:

COMPANY STUFF:

LEGAL STUFF:

New Users:

Existing Users:

Q&A: FDA Takes a Closer Look at Lasik

Published to:

FUN STUFF:

COMPANY STUFF:

LEGAL STUFF: