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SLK, LASIK, & Dry Eyes
Can you have LASIK performed if you have SLK and dry eyes? I am currently on Restasis to help with dry eyes, along with OTC drops as needed. I have been unable to wear my contacts for almost 2 years now due to irritation from EKC prior to my SLK diagnosis. I am aware that my eyes must be "quiet" for at least a year before I can even think about LASIK, but will my dry eyes prevent me from getting the LASIK performed? I am a long-term contact lens wearer (14 years), so I really hate having to wear my glasses (but I can't see without them, I'm -3.75 in L, -4.25 in R). Also, my thyroid bloodwork was normal (it's a factor in some cornea/SLK patients). Any tips or suggestions?
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What causes the need for the reading & computer glasses in 40+ years? Does this mean that LASIK is only good for preventing the need of bifocals later on? If I leave my myopia alone, wouldn't I still need glasses to read/see things far away and for driving? Also, I'm almost 30yrs old, and I have been wearing glasses since 5 or 6 years old (forgot to put that info in previously).
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
There are obviously various degrees of SLK and dry eyes. The most severe forms of both would likely disqualify you from lasik. Milder forms that are "quiet" would likely be okay, it will vary from surgeon to surgery.
use the search feature to read about SLK and drye eyes.
Know that in your early 40's you will need reading glasses, then computer glasses then both. If you leave your myopia alone you will be able to read without glasses after 40s.
JCH MD
use the search feature to read about SLK and drye eyes.
Know that in your early 40's you will need reading glasses, then computer glasses then both. If you leave your myopia alone you will be able to read without glasses after 40s.
JCH MD
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Many patients I see that had lasik when they were in their 20s and 30s seem shocked when they get in their early 40s and can't see anymore up close without reading glasses and as they get older it gets worse and worse.
We always tell our lasik patients about this especially if they are near 40.
I'm in my 60s. I'm about -3.00 in both eyes. I love it. I can read without glasses, use a computer without glasses. I don't mind glasses for distance, I've worn them since age 22. It would drive me nuts to need glasses to read and use a computer. That's why I've never had lasik.
If you don't have lasik you willnot be able to read wth your glasses somewhere between age 40 and 45. If you want to read without removing your glasses or to see things say 5-6 feet away you will need no line bifocals.
Some glasses haters use monovision having lasik on just one eye. That's not attractive to most people since you don't see as well since you're using only one eye, you lose depth perception and you don't see mind rage 3-10 feet.
JCH MD