[at-l] LASIK info, FWIW

[Cosmo.A.Catalano@williams.edu (cosmo catalano, jr.)]

 From another list, but we've had discussion here about eye surgery. I 
trust the author of the message below, she has had first hand 
experience with the procedure and seems to know what she's talking 
about.  I think her message below presents the information in a clear 
and succinct (am I on the right list here?<g>) way:
Cosmo

"I've worked for an ophthalmologist who specializes in refractive surgery
and has performed LASIK on thousands of eyes.  Certain small complications
may arise such as glare at night.  People that especially at higher risk
for glare at night are those who have large pupils when dilated.  Another
common side effect is dry eyes, which can be relieved with artificial
tears.  I'm a skeptic when it comes to cheap, discounted LASIK surgery,
but if you do decide to go that route, make sure you look carefully, ask
lots of questions and find an experienced surgeon.

Here are questions that the practice I worked for recommended patients to
ask other surgeons:

What is the surgeon's name that will be doing your surgery and how many
actual Lasik procedures has he or she performed?
Is the surgeon board certified in ophthalmology?
Does he or she have outcome statistics of their own surgeries to show you
(make sure you look closely at those stats)?
Does the surgeon dispose of all supplies, including blades, between each
patient?
Are any single use devices or supplies reused? If so are they properly
sterilized and inspected?
Does the center sterilize all equipment after each case?
What ranges of correction can the surgeon do for myopia, hyperopia, and
astigmatism?
Does the price vary depending on your range of correction? Are
enhancements, if needed, included in the surgery fee? (If you are very
nearsighted or farsighted, chances are you'll need an enhancement)

Another possible problem in LASIK is with the microkeratome (the knife
that cuts the flap).  I've done research on these knives, and have
discovered disturbing variability on how deep this knife cuts, verses what
the manufacturer designed it to cut.  If you have a thin cap, I'd be a
little bit more concerned because if it cuts too close to the Stroma then
disasterous results could arise such as needing a corneal transplant.

Good surgeons have amazing stats ~90% reaching their targeted refraction.
LASIK has been out for quite a while now.  It's in my opinion the best
form of refractive surgery.  Complications happen, even though they have a
low % of occurance, but if it happens to you, that becomes 100%.  Just, be
aware of the risks and again, find an EXCELLENT surgeon."