Lasik surgery.....

[skiergirl]

This is something I've been wanting for a while but am just working to pay off 1 last CC before I charge more debt. Just curious how many have had this and how happy they really are with it?

I've yet to hear of anyone un-happy so far but I only know about 8 people that have had it done.

Been looking at this place, they seem pretty reputable -
http://www.manneye.com/lasik.html

Any suggestions or things I should ask or be aware of?

[Rsv1000R]

Depends on how old you are, My BiL went from needing glasses to see far away, to needing them to read. But he got his done in his 40's iirc.

[speedylocksmith]

had it done about 5 years ago, extremely happy. a couple minutes of discomfort (the thing that holds your eyes open) for decades of no contacts or glasses....not even a comparison for me!! Just check out who you decide to go with. Make sure they don't have complaints or lawsuits cuz you only get one chance with your eyes.

[azoomm]

I went to Mann Eye
Evan went to Mann Eye
Sub went to Mann Eye
Kathy went to Mann Eye

Seeing a pattern at all?? :)

I had mine done three years ago, and still VERY happy...

[njchopper87]

I'd love to get this done sometime in the future. Hell, it'll probably be one of the first things I do after I graduate and get a real job. My grandmother had laser eye surgery and still has to use reading glasses, but she's happy with the outcome.

[skiergirl]

actually Azoomm, that's why I was looking at them I knew you had gone there and were really happy..:)

My eye's seem to change slightly every year still but that's been my life story, I figure even if I have to wear glasses for some things later on it's still better than being as blind as I am now. I can't even read my alarm clock without putting my glasses on first.

[Twobanger]

I went to Mann Eye
Evan went to Mann Eye
Sub went to Mann Eye
Kathy went to Mann Eye

Seeing a pattern at all?? :)

I had mine done three years ago, and still VERY happy...

If I can get a ride worked out I'm going in on Friday to have it done.

Do you recommend one of the Manns over the other?

[ericr]

Worth every penny I spent on it!! Had mine done at Harbin and highly recommend if they're in your area. I did it in '06 at 40 yo after being near sighted since 2nd grade and wish I'd done it sooner!

[TYEster]

actually Azoomm, that's why I was looking at them I knew you had gone there and were really happy..:)

My eye's seem to change slightly every year still but that's been my life story, I figure even if I have to wear glasses for some things later on it's still better than being as blind as I am now. I can't even read my alarm clock without putting my glasses on first.

That's not all you cant see.... :tremble:

[skiergirl]

the TV? ;)

[azoomm]

If I can get a ride worked out I'm going in on Friday to have it done.

Do you recommend one of the Manns over the other?

I had the elder, and Evan had the younger... so I don't think I have a preference. Their facility was fantastic. Two thumbs up.

[TYEster]

the TV? ;)

Try again! :dribble:

[Mr Lefty]

I'm in the process of getting mine setup... not sure if I'll have PRK or Lasik done. depends on what they tell me... the Air Force does both. but being I have an astigmatism in both eyes... I've got to take my contacts out and wear my glasses for 45 days... on day... 8 right now... fucking sucks... but it's FREE so I won't bitch.... too much :lol:

[speedylocksmith]

I'm in the process of getting mine setup... not sure if I'll have PRK or Lasik done. depends on what they tell me... the Air Force does both. but being I have an astigmatism in both eyes... I've got to take my contacts out and wear my glasses for 45 days... on day... 8 right now... fucking sucks... but it's FREE so I won't bitch.... too much :lol:I had an astigmatism in both eyes, 3.5 in one and 4.5 in the other and I didn't have to keep the contacts out for any length of time before hand...strange.

[Mr Lefty]

I had an astigmatism in both eyes, 3.5 in one and 4.5 in the other and I didn't have to keep the contacts out for any length of time before hand...strange.

yeah I'm not gonna wait 45 days... maybe 15-20... then go in... fuck'm ... they won't even do the INITIAL eval till then... and I've already done that once... and i wore my contacts TO that appointment. being that the surgery will be 2 weeks out from the appt... 15-20 days should be fine...

[Phenix_Rider]

I had an astigmatism in both eyes, 3.5 in one and 4.5 in the other and I didn't have to keep the contacts out for any length of time before hand...strange.

I haven't seen an eye doc for a while, but I asked last time. Said I couldn't do it because of astig. :skep: I need to talk to a different one...

[speedylocksmith]

yeah I'm not gonna wait 45 days... maybe 15-20... then go in... fuck'm ... they won't even do the INITIAL eval till then... and I've already done that once... and i wore my contacts TO that appointment. being that the surgery will be 2 weeks out from the appt... 15-20 days should be fine...

I haven't seen an eye doc for a while, but I asked last time. Said I couldn't do it because of astig. :skep: I need to talk to a different one...yeah, kinda strange. This is who did mine ----> http://www.mleye.com/ Dr. Lessner did mine personally. It was $4400 because of the astigmatism but well worth it since you only get one chance and I'd rather have one of the best do it. He's done Tiger Woods, and is the official Lasik provider to UM, Panthers, Dolphins, Heat and Marlins

[Adeptus_Minor]

I didn't go to the Doctors Mann, but I had mine done 3 or so years back.
It's been great thus far.
I was nearsighted with astigmatism. I don't remember all the numbers, but they had no trouble correcting for it.
The only possible side effect I've noticed is difficulty through-focusing when shooting with iron sights.
I still do alright so I'd say that's a small price to pay. :dthumb:

[ericr]

I'm in the process of getting mine setup... not sure if I'll have PRK or Lasik done. depends on what they tell me... the Air Force does both. but being I have an astigmatism in both eyes... I've got to take my contacts out and wear my glasses for 45 days... on day... 8 right now... fucking sucks... but it's FREE so I won't bitch.... too much :lol:

If you were wearing soft contacts it shouldn't need more than a couple weeks to settle but the longer you don't wear them the more likely your eyes will be in their natural postion and less likely to need a second correction. I'd go with Lasik (and did) It's less intrusive in that they only cut the skin over the cornea and laser the outside of the cornea. Don't bitch, mine was $4200 ;)

I could literally only see about 6 inches away before it got blurry before I had mine done and i could read road signs at 30-40 yrds on the way home from having it done. I did have to have my right eye corrected a year later but they've been perfect since.

[Homeslice]

I've heard it's not a good idea for someone whose prescription changes every year. Also some people have had issues with seeing halos at night.

[Mr Lefty]

If you were wearing soft contacts it shouldn't need more than a couple weeks to settle but the longer you don't wear them the more likely your eyes will be in their natural postion and less likely to need a second correction. I'd go with Lasik (and did) It's less intrusive in that they only cut the skin over the cornea and laser the outside of the cornea. Don't bitch, mine was $4200 ;)

I could literally only see about 6 inches away before it got blurry before I had mine done and i could read road signs at 30-40 yrds on the way home from having it done. I did have to have my right eye corrected a year later but they've been perfect since.

well I don't really get a CHOICE... the Air Force offers both... and they'll decide which they believe is better for me.

[HurricaneHeather]

I have horrific eye sight (contacts are -11.75L and -12R) and I have never had any desire to get Lasik done. :shrug:

I guess I don't get why it's such a big deal. But then, I have never had any problems with contacts.

[ericr]

I have horrific eye sight (contacts are -11.75L and -12R) and I have never had any desire to get Lasik done. :shrug:

I guess I don't get why it's such a big deal. But then, I have never had any problems with contacts.

When you wake up the next morning and can see the clock clearly without rolling over to 6 inches away, and clear across the room, etc. I had a lot of problems with my contacts because of my allergies. Just being able to function at anytime doing anything without some eye correction is wonderful.

BTW, you DO have horrific eyesight HH :p

[skiergirl]

oh wow Heather yes you are blind aren't you...:) j/k

I also have an astigmatism but the shape of my cornea voids that and I wear normal contacts. I'm apparently a freak of nature according to my eye Dr who said it's very uncommon. Hoping that doesn't effect having Lasik but..?? Mine are 3.75 and 4.00 so it's not horrible but it's bad and I don't have problems with my contacts really but..

I have to get up every morning and put them in, clean them, take them out every night, if there's a ceiling fan on or air in my face it dries them out enough to be just slightly noticeable and therefore irritating to me. Getting this done is a 'want' def not a necessary thing which is why I haven't done it so far, it's a bit expensive and paying off 1 last CC to me is more important before I rack up 3-4K more in debt. But I can't wait for the day within the next year that I can get this done...I'm guessing it will be with my tax return next year but it WILL happen..:)

Thanks everything for your input.

[the chi]

It doesnt help you out overmuch, but shop around to some other Dr.'s and see if they have better prices. Its something I've been interested in, but for me its not a priority but having known several people who've done it and are going through the process, its amazing the things you find out.

My bf has been to a local doc, highly recommended who costs about $1800 per eye.

One of my coworkers saw the same doc, did some shopping, found a guy 1 state over who has been doing it for several years and only charges $1600 for both eyes (due to his highly successful practice and as busy as he stays, he can charge less). It just required the visit for the consult, surgery done within a day or so after, and he was all set. He raves about it these days.

An old boss of mine saw same doc in our local area, went to ATL and only paid about $2k for everything, tho she had to go up to ATL like 3 times.

[MissHell]

I know most people have good experiences and great results. I give my experience for people to think about...

I had astigmatism. The doctor I saw performed LASIK on several people I know and they are are/were happy.

Before surgery there is a waiver you sign with a list of possible side effects, such as dry eyes, halos, etc. One of those possible side effects is cornea ulcers, which I have had three times now since my surgery. Cornea ulcers are painful and can lead to blindness. :(

My actual surgery went fine however they tell you go to home and sleep 2-3 hours. I slept about an hour and was woken up and the pain was pretty bad. My doc said "most" people sleep the 2-3 hours which is the period that the pain is the worst and it was unfortunate for me that I woke up too early. :cry:

My eye sight is great! I have 15/20 in one eye and 20/20 in the other. If I knew then, what I know now? For my personal experience, I would NOT do LASIK. The cornea ulcers risk are not worth the trade-off IMHO.

Good luck if you decide to go for it! I am not the norm... but it would happen.

PS: My co-worker's sister ended up blind in one eye due to LASIK gone bad. :(

[skiergirl]

good info....thanks

I know there HAS to be risks it's a pretty major thing to mess with your eyes. It just seems like 99% of people are happy and loved it, I'm 99% sure I'm going to do it when I have the money just doing a little research and digging now to prepare....

[HokieDNA01]

Speaking of Lasik. I was reading this thread today and just got a call that I won half price Lasik and a free exam for entering a business card at our local mexican restaurant. SWEET! Guess that seals the deal on me going.

[Cutty72]

yeah, kinda strange. This is who did mine ----> http://www.mleye.com/ Dr. Lessner did mine personally. It was $4400 because of the astigmatism but well worth it since you only get one chance and I'd rather have one of the best do it. He's done Tiger Woods, and is the official Lasik provider to UM, Panthers, Dolphins, Heat and Marlins

according to the commercials, it was TLC Lazer Eye Clinic that did Tiger Woods' surgery. :idk:

[ericr]

Whatever any of you do who are thinking about it, I STRONGLY suggest you don't try to find a "cheap" place to do it. It's going to cost about $2k an eye for any reputable place and they are the best, period. It's your eyes and you don't want to risk them. The places that advertise the "specials" and low prices are typically the ones that are having problems getting the business. Do some research and find the best place in your area and don't take the risk to save a few bucks.

There are a lot of places in ATL that were advertising $400 an eye but when you went to get it done it wasn't a full correction to 20/20...if you wanted 20/20 the price went up and you'd end up paying the same at a company using shady marketing to try to get business.

Just my opinon but wanted to give y'all something to think about on that.

[HokieDNA01]

The place doing the give away is one of the best in Nashville. Selkin's Laser Eye Center. They offered me $599/eye. Not too bad as I believe that is about half what they normally charge.

[askmrjesus]

Speaking of Lasik. I was reading this thread today and just got a call that I won half price Lasik and a free exam for entering a business card at our local mexican restaurant. SWEET! Guess that seals the deal on me going.

Hokie, you might want to rethink this plan...

"Yeah, I'd like the Taco Salad, a Chimichanga, and a Dos Equis. Oh, and after lunch, if Pedro is caught up on the dishes, I'd like him to SHOOT A FUCKING LASER BEAM INTO MY EYE!".

JC

[HokieDNA01]

Hokie, you might want to rethink this plan...

"Yeah, I'd like the Taco Salad, a Chimichanga, and a Dos Equis. Oh, and after lunch, if Pedro is caught up on the dishes, I'd like him to SHOOT A FUCKING LASER BEAM INTO MY EYE!".

JC

It wasn't tacobell. And the lasik eye center sponsors the restaurant. Its definitely not a discount eye center

http://www.selkinlasercenter.com/

[azoomm]

It wasn't tacobell. And the lasik eye center sponsors the restaurant. Its definitely not a discount eye center

http://www.selkinlasercenter.com/

I'd rethink that....

[HokieDNA01]

Why would I rethink the best Lasik center in Nashville offering me a discount?? The guy there has done 65,000 procedures and teaches classes across the country. He has a center in Texas as well.

[azoomm]

Why would I rethink the best Lasik center in Nashville offering me a discount?? The guy there has done 65,000 procedures and teaches classes across the country. He has a center in Texas as well.

Ok. :idk:

It just seems hinky to me - a medical professional sponsoring a mexican restaurant in NC, and offering eye surgery at 1/4 the price of the rest. I like my eyes. It's YOUR decision to go there, please don't get defensive if I think in type they look like they have a cheesy business plan - I didn't go any farther than your statement above and a schnazzy website.

[askmrjesus]

Ok. :idk:

It just seems hinky to me - a medical professional sponsoring a mexican restaurant in NC, and offering eye surgery at 1/4 the price of the rest. I like my eyes. It's YOUR decision to go there, please don't get defensive if I think in type they look like they have a cheesy business plan - I didn't go any farther than your statement above and a schnazzy website.

Speaking of schnazzy websites...

http://www.kvbc.com/Global/story.asp?S=686156

"Having performed over 65,000 laser vision correction procedures, Dr. Robert Selkin , the Greensboro Lasik surgeon, as he is fondly called, ranks as one of the most experienced Lasik surgeons in the United States"

According to his own site from 2005, http://www.robertselkin.com/news-doctor-selkin-milestone.htm this dude has done 15,000 eye blasts in the last four years alone. Working 7 days a week, that's like 10 per day.

Sounds like :bs: to me...

JC

[HokieDNA01]

Well it was the Dr. I was going to see before I entered in his contest. I guess I will just go to him and tell him to charge me full price so he does a good job.

[skiergirl]

I think they are just mentioning they see a few things that set off some red flags. Doesn't mean there is anything wrong just something for you to look into.

bottom line is - they are your eyes so go to who you want with them, it doesn't matter what a bunch of people in the internet say...

I wouldn't base my decision solely on comments from here but I'll certainly listen to them and take them into account while doing my own research.

[askmrjesus]

Well it was the Dr. I was going to see before I entered in his contest. I guess I will just go to him and tell him to charge me full price so he does a good job.

I don't blame you for wanting to save some money, who doesn't?

What bothers me, is that the claim of 65,000 surgeries is obviously a cumulative number of surgeries performed by all the doctors in his multiple locations, so why not just say so? If he really did do all of them himself, how in the hell would he be able to provide a decent level of pre and post op care?

Practicing without a license shows that he's willing to cut a few corners, as long as the money keeps coming in. That would worry the fuck out of me.

Just remember, McDonald's has served 5 Billion burgers, but they've yet to serve one good one.

JC

[HokieDNA01]

I appreciate the opinions. I have worked at a hospital for years and haven't gone in for lasik yet because I was researching who the best was. This center is very reputable and I doubt Dr. Selkin will even do my surgery. The only thing I have agreed to do is go in for a consultation. I will decide based on that if I want to proceed. I highly doubt I will be paying 599/eye as that was an estimate and she doesn't know what type of lasik i need yet. If the quality is good at the consultation I will move forward regardless of if there is a discount or not.

[Kerry_129]

I agree on the cheesy-ness of the 'drawing', which I figure is simply a marketing ploy. Then again, I think it was a couple of months ago that she 'entered' & I predicted they'd be calling & sending junk mail immediately - maybe they're just slow on followup.

My limited understanding of Lasik is that the quality/technology/maintenance of the equipment has as much or more to do with the quality of the procedure as the expertise of the particular doc (assuming competency, of course). I think my primary concern would be with investigating the reputation of the specific procedure/equip. which they use.

[buzzcutt2]

Had mine done about 4 months ago and love it - no issues at all, I now see 20/15 out of both eyes. I went to the place that did the guy from Americas Most Wanted. :shrug:

[Cutty72]

I want this... eventually.

[skiergirl]

You'll love it, I did it in Jan this year and it was money well spent! I now have 20/15 vision and no issue with dry eyes at all. That only lasted for a a couple weeks for me. The first week you have a tons of drops to put in and by the 2nd it's suggested every hour or as needed wetting drops but I really only needed them when I was at the computer for long periods of time and not really more then about 3 weeks. Other people have said they needed them longer but riding has no effect at all because you blink. While looking at a computer you tend to not blink as much which is why they dry.

The procedure is super quick and painless. The worst part is the first machine and it doesn't hurt it's just really weird. You can't feel much but they basically suction cup your eyeball so it can't move while the laser makes the cut - you can't tell what's happening but you feel pressure on your eye. like someone is pushing on it hard...it doesn't hurt at all but it's really an odd sensation. It only lasts about 20 seconds per eye and then the next machine does the rest with no discomfort in about another 20 seconds per eye.

Then off you go, home to sleep for a few hours and it just keeps getting better from there. I just had my 3 month check up and all is perfect..! you won't be sorry and I was nervous as hell too. I know it's safe but damn it it's my EYE...:) They gave me Valium so by the time I was going in i was practically asleep.

let us know how it goes...

[sherri_chickie]

I did mine almost 4 years ago and don't regret it at all. It was super! My left eye was terrible before, I couldn't even see the HUGE E on the wall ( a faint faint grey smudge) It had regressed a bit, and since I have been pregnant I have seen it get worse, but that is a pregnant thing, you won't have to worry about that...lol.

[Mr Lefty]

I'm scheduled to have mine done this Saturday and I'm nervous as hell.

Since "dry eye" is one of the most common side effects of the surgery, it seems like it would put us motorcyclists in particular discomfort, what with wind rushing around our heads and all. My eyes are a little dry to begin with, so I don't know what to expect post-op...


I personally had PRK... but my eyes only get dry at night while sleeping... when I wake up and go to open my eyes... it hurts! but you get used to it... open your eyes slowly... and after a couple seconds your eyes rehydrate themselves...

I've NEVER had a problem with my eyes drying out during the day... and i ride everyday. I usually have sunglasses on with my visor either open fully or cracked a bit to get my face more air (temps have been steady in the high 70's-80 here already... no issues.

even riding up in December and Jan to and from Omaha my eyes were never a problem.

but YMMV. :cheers:

[ericr]

I'm scheduled to have mine done this Saturday and I'm nervous as hell.

Since "dry eye" is one of the most common side effects of the surgery, it seems like it would put us motorcyclists in particular discomfort, what with wind rushing around our heads and all. My eyes are a little dry to begin with, so I don't know what to expect post-op...

My eyes also get very tired looking at a computer screen all day. I wonder how/if the surgery will affect this as well.

I'm having the "custom," all-laser type surgery and my plan includes life-time enhancements should my eyesight begin to deteriorate again. I've Googled the crap out of my surgeon (Steven Stetson) and I haven't found much to hold against him. He's operating out of the Marietta, GA branch of the Lasik Vision Institute.

ericr, you're from this area, did you come across this place while you were shopping around? I decided on them because of price and the positive experiences a few of my coworkers had with them.


Triple, I did not run across them because I didn't do a lot of looking around at the time. I knew that Emory was the leader in the nation and from a few people I knew that worked down there, said Harbin was pretty much second and had the same equipment. The laser is the biggest factor...auto correction for any involuntary eye movement makes it nearly foolproof with the proper mapping and programming for your eye. I used Harbin, about $1K less and a 15 mile drive instead of 50 miles to Emory. I was borderline for the dry eye problems, even with contacts and glasses I carried eye drops because my allergies make my eyes so dry. Still carry them but don't need them as much as I used to even with glasses. Riding hasn't presented any more problem for me with it either but I can sure see a hell of a lot better.

Beware of any place that advertises cheaper prices and then sells "upgrades" to full 20/20 vison. If they're having to use that marketing ploy to get business, they wouldn't get mine. Good luck with yours, it really is worth getting IMO.

[Mr Lefty]

I canceled my appointment for surgery. The procedure changes and weakens your eye for the rest of your life. They cut a flap that never completely heals. Not a problem for a lot of people but not suggested for those who participate in contact sports-- particularly combat sports, so no deal! Trauma to your eye can reopen the flap, causing immediate vision degredation, infection, etc. As things tend to hit me in the eyes on a regular basis, this is not worth the risk.

PRK sounds like the better procedure. More expensive, takes longer, and hurts more during recovery, but safer over time. No cutting. I'll look into it when I can afford it.

That's why I did it... they said the chance of you dislodging the flap is very very rare... but it was possible in contact sports or in very dusty or dry situations (I wanna ride around the world.... probably gonna hit dry and dusty more than a few times :lol:)

For us Military... PRK and Lasik are both offered.. they push PRK as it's got less risk in the long run... but the advantage of Lasik is the healing time is much less. as just the seam of the flap must heal rather than the entire surface of your eye.

I'll hit 1 year in July. my vision has been perfect... and with the exception of the dry eye in the AM when I first wake up... (actually thought i tore open the flap the first time it happened... then realized after I calmed down... that I had no flap as I had PRK not Lasik :lmao:) I've had absolutely no issues.

[Sean]

I got PRK. Recovery time is a bitch. Oh, and I can't wear AGV helmets anymore.

[Sean]

20/20. I didn't get "custom" lasik which is what gives people the 20/10 or 20/15 supervision...didn't know about it, my mistake.

[wildchild]

They gave me Valium so by the time I was going in i was practically asleep.


ah ha!! maybe I could do it. I have thought about it but I have an uncontrollable reaction to getting the shudders when things are about to poke/cut/ or otherwise open me up. may have to think about it.

[skiergirl]

ah ha!! maybe I could do it. I have thought about it but I have an uncontrollable reaction to getting the shudders when things are about to poke/cut/ or otherwise open me up. may have to think about it.

If you pick a good reputable place it makes all the difference in the world. When you walk into Mann Eye, they greet you by your name and I swear must take notes on things I've said in the past because they talk to you like they almost know you. How's the bike? riding lately? etc....They are very friendly and re-assuring the entire way through the process.

The day of, I was a sooo nervous. I know they do thousands a year but it's still my eyes they are about to poke with a laser beam..haha the process is actually much easier than you think. The more you read up on it and see pics the worse it really seems.

[Sean]

Valium had zero effect on me. I was terrified.

[HokieDNA01]

I looked into it then decided my contacts weren't all that bad after all. I sleep in mine daily and never have had any issues.

[skiergirl]

I would make an appointment and talk to a professional about it before you make a decision based of what you are reading on the internet.....

[Mr Lefty]

If I want to have my eyes fixed, I need to stop researching. Horror stories, everywhere.

Sounds like PRK has higher incidences of corneal hazing and infection and not as high a success rate of vision correction as Lasik. There have also been millions and millions of Lasik procedures performed versus just a few hundred thousand PRK (even though PRK is actually the older procedure).

I'm getting estimates for PRK three times the price of what I almost paid for Lasik.

research any newish surgery and there's gonna be horror stories... but the odds are much more in your favor than you'd think. the doc's here on Keesler AFB do 10-20 PRK or Lasic surgeries EVERY wed... for the last 2 years... and haven't had any issues with any complications.

I got PRK. Recovery time is a bitch. Oh, and I can't wear AGV helmets anymore.

why can't you wear AGV?

20/20. I didn't get "custom" lasik which is what gives people the 20/10 or 20/15 supervision...didn't know about it, my mistake.

I got the normal as it's the only one the Air Force offered... I ended up with 20/15 in both eyes... when I get tired my eyes are back to about 20/20... but I can see as well as I could with my contacts and that's all that matters to me!

[wildchild]

Valium had zero effect on me. I was terrified.

Oh thanks, I needed that. :lol just as i was getting up a little nerve.

[Sean]

Something about the airflow in AGV helmets means my new, drier eyes now get a ton of crap in them. I can't go more than a couple of miles without getting something in there.

[askmrjesus]

Something about the airflow in AGV helmets means my new, drier eyes now get a ton of crap in them. I can't go more than a couple of miles without getting something in there.

You should:

A: Ride one mile at a time.

or

B: Close your visor.

JC

[Cruzergirl]

If I want to have my eyes fixed, I need to stop researching. Horror stories, everywhere.

Sounds like PRK has higher incidences of corneal hazing and infection and not as high a success rate of vision correction as Lasik. There have also been millions and millions of Lasik procedures performed versus just a few hundred thousand PRK (even though PRK is actually the older procedure).

I'm getting estimates for PRK three times the price of what I almost paid for Lasik.

I know lots of people who got PRK and have terrific vision. Me. I won the PRK lottery (in reverse). One eye actually got worse than before the surgery. But that is pretty rare and I would still recommend this to anyone.

[Sean]

I had both done at the same time. I highly recommend that for PRK because the recovery is such a bitch. You don't want to go through it twice. PRK was 600 cheaper for me too.

[Hydrant]

I had Lasik done, about 2.5 months ago now and it was the best thing I have ever done. My vision was roughly 20/450 in one and about 20/300 in the other. I couldn't see my alarm clock on the night stand while laying in bed, I bought one of those projection alarm clocks to put on the ceiling, and with 2' numbers I still couldn't read it. I've been in glasses and contacts since I was a kid, so I finally just grew tired of it one day and started looking into it.

I had Custom Lasik done on a Friday, and the next day for the check up appointment I drove myself to the office. Both eyes were done at the same time, and didn't have any problems at the surgery. The only area of concern for me was the fact that I've got a scar on my cornea from an eye surgery a few years back were they had to remove a piece of metal embeded in my eye. The laser used to cut the cornea would not have been able to scan that area, and perhaps not do a proper cut. Only side effects I've had were dry eyes, that was for about a month and a half (eye drops about 5-6 times a day), and now I just carry Visine with me if working in dusty areas. I use drops maybe twice a day, and riding hasn't really bothered me yet. Halos at night were there for about a month after the surgery and haven't had a problem with them since.

I went back from another checkup a couple weeks ago, and both my eyes were 20/15, and I could make out a few of the letters on the 20/10 chart.


It took me about 5 years to finally work up the nerve to do it, even my younger brother had it done 2 years ago, and I still couldn't make myself do it. After its been said and done, I am glad I did. I paid about 1700 per eye.

If you have any questions just ask away.

[Hydrant]

I would make an appointment and talk to a professional about it before you make a decision based of what you are reading on the internet.....





This.

Even though I knew where I was going to have it done, I still talked to some other local doctors to get their opinions and projections of what can be done. You will also feel more comfortable if you get to meet the doctor in a casual enviroment instead of walking in 5 minutes before the procedure.

[Mr Lefty]

Did they do both of your eyes at the same time?

The place that was going to perform my Lasik also offers PRK (just found out today). I rescheduled for next Friday, and to my surprise, the PRK is $600 cheaper. The surgeon is ex-Air Force, so he claims that most of his previous laser treatments have been PRK. Only thing that concerns me is that they want to do both eyes at the same time, when everything I've read online says the procedure is usually done one eye at a time.

yes they did both of mine at the same time... I went in on a Wed had the surgery... went back on Thurs for a post op follow up... then again on Monday.

Thursday wasn't bad... till later in the day... Saturday SUCKED... my eyes were insanely light sensitive. I couldn't open my eyes in my appt while the sun was up... even with all the blinds down (sun doesn't even shine directly on my windows) night was better... but still sucked.

use the dropps... get some frozen peas to put on your eyes while you sleep... (I wrapped them around my head with a ace bandage :lol:) and you will be sleeping A LOT.

at least I was

[Mr Lefty]

I felt good Sunday. Friday was the worst... Saturday was bad but felt better in the late after noon (my previous posts I said it was Sat... looked at an e-mail I sent Sunday and I was mistaken)

I dunno if you'll be good to read Monday... I could see... but stayed in my darkish apartment all day. but I remember feeling like I was fine to go out, even in the AM

for me, they put a protective contact on that I had to go in and have removed Monday... and honestly that was what was making my vision even half bad on Monday. I mean imagine wearing a contact for 5 days with out taking them out or cleaning them... all the while sleeping 15-20hrs a day?

I'd talk to your instructor about pushing the test back if you can...just in case.

[Cutty72]

I felt good Sunday. Friday was the worst... Saturday was bad but felt better in the late after noon (my previous posts I said it was Sat... looked at an e-mail I sent Sunday and I was mistaken)

I dunno if you'll be good to read Monday... I could see... but stayed in my darkish apartment all day. but I remember feeling like I was fine to go out, even in the AM

for me, they put a protective contact on that I had to go in and have removed Monday... and honestly that was what was making my vision even half bad on Monday. I mean imagine wearing a contact for 5 days with out taking them out or cleaning them... all the while sleeping 15-20hrs a day?

I'd talk to your instructor about pushing the test back if you can...just in case.

What's so bad about that?

[Mr Lefty]

What's so bad about that?

they get all hazy and nasty...

[Cutty72]

Mine are fine, they've been in since March.

[Mr Lefty]

Mine are fine, they've been in since March.

you'd notice a difference if you changed them now though...


I didn't really ever know how bad mine were until I threw a new set in...


same with the lasik protective contact... didn't realize how dirty it was until they took it off and things cleared up.

still took about a month for my eyes to settle into the 20/15 range...

[sherri_chickie]

I had the surgery done on a Friday, drove to my check up on Saturday and went and spent the day outside watching a disc golf tourney later that day. My eyes did sting quite a bit on Friday, so I slept a lot, but I felt great afterwards.

[Mr Lefty]

I don't just have to read the exams on Monday, I have to study for them that weekend, immediately after having my eyes blitzed.

I can't push the exams back, but I might be able to take them early. If not, I'll have to reschedule the surgery... again...

from my experience... I would have had to push the surgery back

I had the surgery done on a Friday, drove to my check up on Saturday and went and spent the day outside watching a disc golf tourney later that day. My eyes did sting quite a bit on Friday, so I slept a lot, but I felt great afterwards.

yeah I probably could have driven on Thursday (the day after the surgery) but Friday and Sat... no way in hell... I couldn't keep my eyes open for more than about a second on Sat... nothing more than a blink on Fri... and again that was in my dark apartment.

[Sean]

The day after was clear, but the day after the day after I was freaking blind. Both near and far. The only thing I could figure out to do to amuse myself was fly this little cheap foam r/c airplane I had around my complex's garage. That's the only thing I could think of that didn't require any detail vision to do. The big difference between PRK and Lasik is the recovery time--Lasik has basically none.

[sherri_chickie]

Yikes! I guess I had it easy. If my eyes don't go back to normal after this baby is born I think I will look into the possibility of a touch up on my left eye. Considering I had 20/200 vision in that eye before surgery, I think they did a good job and I would do it again, if it is not going to screw up my eyes.

[ericr]

Yep. I watched a 3-d simulation of the surgery on Youtube. They basically cut off the front of your eyeball.

When/if you need enhancement surgery, they peel back the same flap they cut during your first surgery, because it never fully heals back in place. That's what killed it for me, my eyes being so vulnerable for the rest of my life.

Well, I actually had PRK done on my eye's, I get them confused because Lasik is used as the general term by so many people now. Go to Harbin Clinic in Rome and talk to them, ask to see Dr. Hartin and tell him I refered you (full name is Eric Rush).

I'll say this about the results...when I walked out and got in the car a 1/4 mile down the road I could read road signs at 50yrds when before the surgery I wouldn't have been able to see the sign was there without glasses or contacts. Had mine done in the morning and the first day everything is kinda hazy, but I could see way better than I could since 2nd grade. The next day I went to work, drove myself, could see to function just fine. Every day for a week I could tell an improvement and after that it was gradual but I could see so good I would have been happy with what I had on the 3rd day!

[ericr]

I don't just have to read the exams on Monday, I have to study for them that weekend, immediately after having my eyes blitzed.

I can't push the exams back, but I might be able to take them early. If not, I'll have to reschedule the surgery... again...

Woops, didn't read all the posts. I wouldn't do it right before your exams! Your eyes will tire easily for the first 4 or 5 days, mine did especially if I was reading or on the computer. Might want to do it afterward.

[skiergirl]

Even with Lasik, you're eyes will dry out quickly if reading or looking at a computer screen for long. I wouldn't schedule it near a test.....

[Mr Lefty]

Had my PRK done this past Friday morning, still can't drive or read for more than a few seconds at a time as of Tuesday. No improvement in vision since late Sunday or so, missing tons of work. Things are easily as blurry now as they were pre-op; if my vision doesn't start clearing up ASAP, I'm in trouble with work.

don't worry... when they start clearing up... it does so FAST! I couldn't see SHIT on Saturday... and Sunday morning... but by late Sunday I could see perfect with just a little light sensitivity... monday I was normal (just had to wear sunglasses anytime I was out side.)

[Mr Lefty]

Yeah the contacts were getting dirty on me too. And my vision cleared up a lot after they were removed

[ericr]

Why do they have you wearing contacts? I didn't wear any after mine and i could see to drive to work and work the day after I had mine done. I just had to keep my eyes moist with "refreash tears" eye drops.

My eyes would get tired easy the first few days but i could close them for about 2 minutes and they were fine for a while.

[sherri_chickie]

I do know that they cut a flap back on my eye and then used a laser to shape my eye under. You could smell the burn.. eww. They did two different things with my eyes though. On my really bad eye it only was 20 seconds and on my not as bad eye it took 40. Not sure what the difference was.

[Sean]

Why do they have you wearing contacts? I didn't wear any after mine and i could see to drive to work and work the day after I had mine done. I just had to keep my eyes moist with "refreash tears" eye drops.


Because PRK burns the whole front of your eye off.

[ericr]

Ok, mine was Lasik. They cut the flap of tissue over the cornea then used the laser. I don't care, the shit worked and I can see perfect for the first time since I was 7 or 8 :D

[askmrjesus]

JC

[VatorMan]

:lol

[ericr]

JC

Oh Shit!!! :panic:

:lol

[Mr Lefty]

My vision actually got quite a bit worse for about a day and a half after mine were removed. Opposite of what I expected. Less irritation, though.

Vision is gradually improving now. Lack clarity, but I can function normally again.

Interesting... glad things are sorting out for ya... mine gradually improved over the first three weeks... then settled in... (may have still changed +/- but I couldn't tell)

keep us updated on how your doing though

[the chi]

Oh damn man, thats horrible, hope they get ya fixed up quick!

[Sean]

As the membrane heals, it does so irregularly, so vision will be blurry for a while after. I don't think mine was that bad for that long though. Take fish oil tabs.

[101lifts2]

Three weeks post-surgery; vision has deteriorated to the point that I can't read much of anything more than a few feet from my face. I can make things out my well enough to navigate my environment, but I lack clarity beyond short distances. Can't read road signs and such. Not as bad as I used to be without my glasses, but not even close to my old vision with glasses.

Have a follow-up appointment tomorrow morning.

Are you far or near sighted?

[Homeslice]

I thought PRK was old skool, why is it still being done? Is it for people who for some reason can't do Lasik?

[Sean]

I thought PRK was old skool, why is it still being done? Is it for people who for some reason can't do Lasik?

Fewer side effects and less expensive.

[skiergirl]

After reading all this I can't believe anyone would choose PRK over Lasik - it's way more down-time to heal and seems like a LOT more pain and hassle. I'll take my chances of that flap tearing (which to be honest I have a better chance of winning the lottery than that happening) than deal with all the stuff you mention.....

Hope it works out and you heal up ok though....

[Rangerscott]

Three weeks post-surgery; vision has deteriorated to the point that I can't read much of anything more than a few feet from my face. I can make things out my well enough to navigate my environment, but I lack clarity beyond short distances. Can't read road signs and such. Not as bad as I used to be without my glasses, but not even close to my old vision with glasses.

Have a follow-up appointment tomorrow morning.



Sounds like my own vision.

[Sean]

After reading all this I can't believe anyone would choose PRK over Lasik - it's way more down-time to heal and seems like a LOT more pain and hassle. I'll take my chances of that flap tearing (which to be honest I have a better chance of winning the lottery than that happening) than deal with all the stuff you mention.....

Hope it works out and you heal up ok though....

Because when you crash, the flap made for lasik can open and expose your eye to the dust and debris flying up as you skid along the pavement. PRK doesn't have that side effect. The Air Force only allows PRK patients to slide through for this reason.

[skiergirl]

well then, lucky for me I had no plans on joining the Air Force....:)