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Shout Out

From the lens My Lasik Experience.

Thank you so much for stopping by my lens. I hope you'll check out some of my other topics.

I'd love to hear about your eyes and how you see the world so please leave a message below.

Oh! and don't forget to rate this lens before you go.

  • Andie May 30, 2012 @ 12:45 am | delete
    Thankyou so much for your review. I'm heading into my lasik next Friday.
    You've helped me prepare and set my expectations. Thankyou :)
  • Dee May 30, 2012 @ 12:02 am | delete
    Hi; I posted three days after surgery, now it's two months today. I am 55 so I have the reading glasses issue and that bit is fluctuating but I'm dealing with it. I was really worried when the doctor said that he thought he undercorrected me on the first-day exam because I thought it might get worse. In fact, it got better! My next exam was at 5-6 weeks and I was all worried but it turned out I see 20/20 with both eyes on the chart, 20/25 in one and 20/30 on the other. I waited one month to drive at night. Night is interesting because although I do see haloes around some headlights and traffic signals, I can also see around them and see better than before now. Even when tired I don't see worse. My night vision was always a bit iffy so not a huge deal at the moment.

    It has been a great adventure. The first two weeks or so it felt like how cataract surgery has been described to me: everything was washed clean and sparkly bright, and white objects glowed as if they had been highlighted by a painter. I worked at practicing changing distance focus from nearby to far. I was in tears when I saw the double line of a plane contrail clearly when it went overhead at 30,000 or so feet up, because not seeing that double line was one of the first clues my parents had that I was nearsighted -- at age 5. I think that was a few weeks out. It still feels trippy when I am seeing middle range distance and suddenly feel as if I walked into a 3D movie with everything popping out. Things like rocks on a river shore and plants in the flower beds at just the right distance (say, five feet away).

    The reading glasses I have to agree are a real pain, but still worth it. I have two strengths and my vision does fluctuate. Most irritating is small print on round medicine and shampoo bottles and things like that. I'll take them off to talk to someone, get interrupted, set them down, then want to look at something I need the glasses for and go hunt. I get impatient with the hunting but haven't gone as far as getting the dangly necklace type holders yet.

    I had trouble for a while if there was a light source behind what I looked at. This is easing up. Same with lettering on lit signs or with little color contrast between the sign and the building.

    I am getting more confident. Shopping I feel like I have to fake it a bit, and so I don't take my glasses out when using the card reader at the cashiers because the print is just big enough to see without them.

    I had trouble with the Refresh eye drops brand (irritation and light sensitivity) and switched to Blink, and have also rotated in Tears Naturale and Systane. Rotating seems to help I've cut back, some days I still go up to one an hour, and days like today forgot them entirely for eight, average four. Doc says some people do have problems with Refresh. It has a different active ingredient than the others.

    I still get redness though -- sometimes looks bloodshot/like a varicose vein would look, other times pink like sunburn. But coming a long way. I had struggles with glare on cloudy hazy days that I don't have in full sun. This does change back and forth. I am told fish oil helps with inflammation (by doc) and I wear sunglasses a bit more often than I used to. Worth it, though. I was worried that if a disaster hit and I lost my glasses, or if someone stole them, I'd be a helpless sitting duck. I wake up every morning now, marvelling at the whole idea of sight, feeling it is a precious gift.I tell people I have new eyes, because that is what it feels like. Hope this keeps up (fingers crossed).

    I changed my hair style not that long ago and people know something is different and tell me how great my hair is because they sense something but can't quite place it. I am loving that! (When I have eyestrain, which does happen a lot, it shows. When I'm comfortable, people think it's something new I'm wearing or my hair color or something. This is fun.

    I hope this helps you and your readers a bit. My main thing right now is eye redness, but I do use the eyes a LOT and have to make sure I rest them.
  • BigGirlBlue May 30, 2012 @ 12:24 am | delete
    Phew! Dee, thanks for the in depth look into your experience over the last few months. I am glad you are having "fun" and managing with the minor irritations. I really appreciate you coming back and giving us an update.
  • Ayeda Riaz May 24, 2012 @ 6:42 am | delete
    it is good to know that you are getting along well with post lasik complications i.e. dry eyes and halos. i had prescription around -4 that increased to -7 after birth of my daughter. i was literally freaked out when my doctor told me my new prescription. i instantly decided to go for lasik. i used to wear glasses at home and lens during office hours for past 9 years. that had caused dryness in my eyes. now although my eyes are still dry (have to apply lubricant Tears Naturale II) and have trouble in night time vision, but that nothing compared to the cumbersome practice of switching between glasses and lenses.
  • Janice May 21, 2012 @ 2:42 am | delete
    Thank you for writing about your experience. I'm 2 months post op from Custom Wavefront LASIK at LASIK MD. I was a good candidate for standard LASIK but I opted for CWL because it removes 20%-30% less corneal tissue and also minimizes the risk of night time glare and halos.
    My prescription was in the - 4 area. I often looked under the rim of my glasses to read something quick or to do close up work. No big deal but bifocals were definitely in my future. I now have 20/20 vision but need readers thanks to aging ;-)
    During my assessment I was told I would need reading glasses, probably 1.50. I used my husband as a point of reference because he needs readers of that strength. That,coupled with the certainty that bifocals were fast becoming a reality helped me to make up my mind. All my favorite hobbies require close up work so I thought it over long and hard and decided to go through with it anyway. I thought I'd be glasses free except when making jewelry or reading a book.
    At this stage, glasses are more intrusive than ever. I need a different strength for different tasks. I have 3 pairs right now! Before surgery I put my glasses on when I got out of bed and that was it, end of story. I rarely took them off...ever.
    Now I feel like I'm continually looking for my glasses. I need a pair to prepare meals. I have a hard time being able to see well enough to garden (weeding, pruning, etc) with or without reading glasses.
    I need a different strength for the computer and 1 more pair for reading. I haven't attempted to make any jewelry at all since I had the surgery and shopping has become a real bother as I'm constantly fumbling with glasses, having to keep them handy,dropping them, misplacing them, etc. I don't see myself very clearly in the mirror at all. I need them so much I tend to just keep them on but if I try and look at a distance I get all woozy.
    When I mentioned it at one of my followups the Dr. acted quite defensive and said we had discussed this possibility and had talked about mono-vision. Ummm...NO we hadn't; as a matter of fact I'd never once met her until then. So I didn't say much else to her about it. I figured I was still changing quite a bit so I wasn't going to get too bent out of shape about it.
    My next appointment I had another Dr. and again mentioned the trouble I was having, she was much more sympathetic but couldn't offer any help. I told her I was having a hard time adjusting and that I didn't realize that my "needing reading glasses" would be that all encompassing. I had assumed I'd be like DH and need them only for close up. He doesn't need them for computer or his phone or most other stuff other than SOME reading. I can't see the buttons on the TV remote for heaven's sake. She seemed aware that it could happen and said she wished I'd known that would have been a possibility. So why didn't they tell me???
    I think part of the difficulty to adjust is also the abruptness of the change. DH has been adjusting slowly, over years. Mine is overnight, so I think I likely haven't developed the coping strategies or 'tricks' needed to adjust to the new sight (or lack of it) and all that it entails.
    My sight does still seem to be changing, some days are better than others. Sometimes I can read the computer without glasses but its not crisp. I'm hoping my eyes will continue to progress and I will eventually be more in line with my previous expectations and I'll be able to continue my hobbies. If not I will adjust and make the best of it.
    But knowing what I know now, would I go through it again? At this point, no. I had the surgery to get rid of glasses (as much as possible) instead they are more of a nuisance now than ever.
    If in 6 months time I can do most everything then chances are I'd say yes...only time will tell.
    The reason I shared this is to let people know of one potential outcome. It may not happen to them; but I would prefer going into something like this with as many details as possible and making an informed decision.
  • BigGirlBlue May 21, 2012 @ 4:05 pm | delete
    Hi Janice,

    Thank you for sharing your lengthy account of your experience. I think it is hard to be ready for any side effect -- there are so many and there is no way to predict who will get which ones.

    Seems like you have quite a few doctors with their fingers in the pot.

    Are you using eye drops? I was wondering as I was reading if you tried drops on the days you can't see the computer as clearly if that helped or not. I find on any days that my vision is a bit blurred eye drops definitely make an improvement.

    I think the fact that your husband had had to get used to things gradually is definitely different but having to deal with three pairs of glasses seems ridiculous -- the doctors should be able to come up with a better solution for you. I don't imagine wearing your temp glasses all the time is good for your eyes either.

    You are still pretty fresh being 2 months in. I hope your eyes level out for you over the next few months and you are able to see more benefits. Keep us informed for sure!
  • SamVee May 20, 2012 @ 1:18 am | delete
    Hi BigGirlBlue. I must say I found your experience to be quite similar to mine, so thank you for this update. You've relieved my mind a bit, because my left eye is also quite a bit weaker than my right eye (perfect vision, left slight prescription). The only thing is that it bothers me slightly. When I'm on the computer or watching tv it sometimes feels like there's a slight light hitting one spot on my left eye, and it's mildly annoying. I'm not sure if that's because the eye is slightly weaker or not. Did you experience anything like that (I had my first surgery 6 months ago and the second one for re-correction 2 months ago)? If so, did it go away? I'm also being totally paranoid right now about it, and hoping it's not a permanent thing. :)
  • BigGirlBlue May 20, 2012 @ 2:57 am | delete
    Hi Sam, You're welcome, I am glad you found it helpful. I am not familiar with the light issue you mention. I will recommend making sure you take lots of breaks while working on the computer or watching tv. When I say break, I mean taking a minute or two and looking away from what you are looking at, making sure to blink etc. If you are at the computer then looking into the distance, out a window or across the room is important. While doing computer work we tend to lock our eyes in place for long periods. I hope this light issue you are experiencing is not a permanent issue but it definitely sounds like something you should talk to your doctor about. Thanks for stopping by and commenting on your experience.
  • Cornelius Apr 29, 2012 @ 12:17 pm | delete
    Excellent article...I just underwent LASIK so am apprehensive on a daily basis. So your diary was incredibly useful
  • BigGirlBlue Apr 29, 2012 @ 3:38 pm | delete
    I don't think the apprehension ever goes a way. LOL I started rubbing my eyes the other day because some dust blew in them then I remembered, I am not supposed to rub my eyes like a mad thing. I was paranoid for the rest of the day.
  • vallain Apr 15, 2012 @ 5:37 pm | delete
    I wish I could get my nerve up to try this. Like you, I've worn coke bottle glasses forever (and contact lenses in this photo). Since I've had cataracts forming the past 3 years, it may be when those get operated on, that it will all be corrected. Sigh
  • BigGirlBlue Apr 15, 2012 @ 10:09 pm | delete
    Having your cataracts done will definitely be an improvement. My MIL just had her second one done. She was super nervous but was glad she had them done... after the fact.
  • CeciliaK44 Apr 5, 2012 @ 10:18 am | delete
    I have my LASIK scheduled for this morning!!! And I'm having second thoughts :/ your list of things you are looking forward to, is identical to what my expectations are, however I get extremely anxious when it comes to my eyes. Eye exams are nerve wrecking & the pre-testing process for the LASIK procedure was kind of a nightmare, in terms of how uncomfortable I was the doctor "all up in my eyes". Reading your story has helped, but it's making me think about the possibility of this being more than just "instant HD vision" once the procedure is done. I too am an impatient person & I'm not sure how I'd handle the constant dry eye issue u had with your left eye. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
  • BigGirlBlue Apr 5, 2012 @ 3:44 pm | delete
    Good luck Cecilia. I hope you will come back and tell us how it went! I actually hate the personal space invasiveness of eye exams (or any exam really ) as well. As for the dry eyes, you just deal with it like you deal with anything else in your life. You develop a routine and it gets easier. Mine is just one experience.
  • Dee Apr 1, 2012 @ 6:01 am | delete
    It's the wee hours of Sunday morning and I had my all laser surgery on Thursday. I had a stronger prescription than you, -10 in my left eye and about -6.75 in my right eye plus astigmatism, and had bifocals. I'm astounded at improvement but seeing lots of fluctuations in distance vision so far. I am a lawyer and do tons of stuff on computer and reading and am struggling a bit with that (probably trying to do too much too fast) Thanks for posting this, it's very helpful. My one day exam I could only see two lines on the chart and doc thinks he may have undercorrected me which is a bit discouraging but things seem to have picked up the next day. It sounds as if you went up and down for a while, am I right? Not just one direction? The funny thing is, what was my most nearsighted eye came out better than the other one at least so far. I was also struck by your comment about the focusing. I feel as if I need to retrain my eyes and brain and need to actively practice how to see. And should probably get the heck off this computer :-) A great blog, thank you! The surgery went great, the one thing that freaked me out was the pressure device they put on to do the flap. My right eye has some blotchy redness under the top lid. My left eye is kind of sore -- I woke up last night with the goggles pushed up so the edge was pushing on my left eye a bit which scared me but no changes in vision from it. It is reassuring that with your fluctuations you don't appear to have needed an enhancement. Working on getting used to reading glasses; I had progressive (lineless) bifocals quite a few years and loved them but the glasses themselves for the past fifty years were beginning to drive me nuts and I could never tolerate contacts. Thanks for letting me do a 3 am ramble !!
  • BigGirlBlue Apr 1, 2012 @ 3:25 pm | delete
    Hi Dee, Such a variance between both eyes! You can really appreciate the improvement as I do I imagine. I definitely had lots of fluctuations (yes, both up and down) in the beginning but it did taper off as my eyes retrained themselves. The computer definitely is our enemy in this case. You should try to avoid it as much as possible in the beginning and when you can't then take lots of breaks looking away from the screen to the distance for a few minutes. Set an alarm to remind you because time working at the the computer goes by fast. As you can see from the picture above I had a bit of bruising to the eye too but it cleared up rather quickly. I can't see me going for an enhancement unless there is a drastic change at this point. Once was kind of enough for me. My eyes are better than they were and will probably never be as bad as that again. I may need glasses in the future for a bit of clarity but I don't imagine it will beyond a -2 which is something I could live with (obviously I don't want to today but down the road I would be fine with). Thank you for commenting and best wishes for your recovery.
  • Laura Mar 28, 2012 @ 10:25 pm | delete
    You have made me feel more at ease about going ahead with Lasik. I have the option of doing either Lasik or PRK, my cornea thickness are just slightly below average, but I will have enough left regardless of which procedure I choose. It was great to read such a detailed experience. It really puts things into perspective of what could happen, and also how wonderful it will turn out over time.

    I am still young (22) but I have worn glasses since I was 7. Feels like a lifetime.

    Unfortunately for me, I may have a little too much information stuck in my head as I work as an Ophthalmic Assistant; my doctor specializes in cataracts and glaucoma, and we see patients who have had issues after lasik and prk which also freaks me out. But I know this is something that I have been wanting to do for a long time and Im quite excited for it.

    I am going for another opinion though to make sure I do what is best for my eyes, not just what someone has suggested for me from their own opinion and/or preference.
  • BigGirlBlue Apr 1, 2012 @ 3:30 pm | delete
    You have the advantage of working as an OA both to see patients and to ask your doctor many questions. Problem is it sounds like you only see what happens when things go wrong. There are many opinions for and against and you are right that you need to develop your own opinion on the issue and make a choice from there. Visiting more than one clinic is a must. I am sure you will make the right choice for you.
  • Tarri McD Mar 23, 2012 @ 5:36 pm | delete
    Awesome story... Making me kinda second guess my decision to have surgery ... I have only -1.5 In both eyes and was approved for the lowest cost procedure at LASIK md... I hate glasses and can't stand contacts... I really can't afford time off so I need to be able to work in about two days post surgery.. I do admin at a dental office.. The thought of all the dryness scares me and so does permanent redness and halos... I really want to say bye bye to my glasses but I'm kinda scared that I'm risking my perfectly healthy eyes... What do you think??
  • BigGirlBlue Mar 23, 2012 @ 11:28 pm | delete
    Hi Tarri, You really have to consider what my prescription was compared to yours. The laser stayed on each of my eyes much longer than it would stay on yours with a prescription of only -1.5 -- I think this probably plays a huge part in the healing process afterward. It is normal to be scared, you should be scared. It is your eyes after all. I was terrified for years at the idea of it and right up to the surgery. I can't tell you what will happen or whether you should do it. You need to make the decision and commit to it no matter what happens afterward -- you'll deal with it. For me it is not the end of the world to use eye drops every day compared to the vision impairment I had before but not everyone's lifestyle is so accommodating. Honestly, had I only had a -1.5 prescription I probably would not have had the surgery -- but that is me. I am sure you will make the right decision for you. Keep open the lines of communication between your doctors/surgeon. No question is too stupid for them to answer. Good luck!
  • trish Mar 14, 2012 @ 11:56 am | delete
    Hi thanks for sharing the story.
    I want to do lasik here in toronto but I was wondering about how much it costs? I have -10.5 on both eyes so I'm a bit worse than you were before lasik
  • BigGirlBlue Mar 15, 2012 @ 3:15 pm | delete
    Thanks for visiting. You have to check with the clinic. Because you are a special prescription they need to do an evaluation and then they will give you a price. It is not cheap like the minor adjustments you see advertised on tv for a few hundred and most likely it will be in the few thousand dollars range, more if you have any other eye issues. That being said with new technology and increased availability prices may have changed. You won't know until you ask the clinic you are considering using. I think the consultation visits are free so take advantage of those information sessions.
  • visitor Mar 11, 2012 @ 7:45 pm | delete
    Hey, is your vision less clear than it was with glasses? I went to the same place as you and had my surgery performed by the same doctor 2 weeks ago but I just feel as though I saw clearer with glasses. I was a bit over -8 in both eyes.
  • BigGirlBlue Mar 11, 2012 @ 11:34 pm | delete
    Vision was hazy for a few hours after surgery but still better than before surgery. My vision overall now is better because I don't have to wear glasses at all to see or read. You should probably call up the clinic and voice your concerns so they can get you in for a check up.
  • Visitor Mar 12, 2012 @ 12:55 am | delete
    Thanks. I've been to 2 follow ups with my optometrist now and my next one is in 2 weeks. She told me it's possible that it could take 6 months before things clear up. I'm not really sure what it is but it just feels as though I saw clearer with glasses. I mean I can see things now but it's just not as crisp and clear as before. Do you find your vision as clear as when you wore glasses?
  • BigGirlBlue Mar 12, 2012 @ 2:50 am | delete
    I'd say by day two things were pretty crisp and clear. The only vision that is different for me is really really close up; like if I was trying to look at something really small, before I would bring it within a few inches of my face but now I can't focus like that. But that is something they told me would happen because of my vision prior. The healing process definitely takes a longer time than people expect but it doesn't hurt to keep a list of questions for your doctor. If you are concerned I would still talk to the people who did the surgery. Their eye equipment is more advanced than the optometrist's office usually.
  • Visitor Mar 12, 2012 @ 7:41 pm | delete
    Ok, thanks. Yea some people make it sound like you heal instantly. I didn't have any stinging like you did after surgery though. I felt pressure behind my eyes at times but that was about it.
  • RaZoRLeGaCy Feb 15, 2012 @ 10:11 pm | delete
    My wife had this done
  • newbizmau Feb 11, 2012 @ 2:15 pm | delete
    Just a note to update your link for the eyedrops. By the way I really enjoyed you journaling your experience. I went through the experience with an ex. It seemed very easy for him. He was up and around in just 1 day with just wearing protective eye wear when he slept and outdoors for added protection. I was surprised at all the precautions you listed here. I don't remember all of that. I still want to have lasik done.
  • BigGirlBlue Feb 11, 2012 @ 3:43 pm | delete
    Thank you for letting me know! I have updated the eyedrop link. I find it very interesting how we all respond so differently and it is good to see all outcomes.
  • Monica Feb 10, 2012 @ 1:05 am | delete
    thanks for the detailed sum up of ur experience!! Anyone who opts for lasik are reaaaaaalllly brave!!! I want to do lasik too but too scared of the consequences and the procedures! :((
  • BigGirlBlue Feb 11, 2012 @ 3:41 pm | delete
    I was definitely scared and it took me many years to work up to it.
  • COUNTRYLUTHIER Feb 2, 2012 @ 7:00 pm | delete
    Glad it worked out. I'm a big near sighted chicken!
  • mel Jan 31, 2012 @ 12:13 pm | delete
    Hello BigGirlBlue! Thanks for your detailed story. It's nice to read something positive and realistic on the web ( after going through some horror stories of lasik). I'm having concern on my recently lasiked eyes ( 26 days since my op). I had 20/20 vision right after the op ( with 20/15 when I had glasses pre-op) but that has regressed to 20/40 with slight myopia on my last visit. My question to you is, based on your experience, is there a chance that my vision would improve over the months?
    I am really hesitant about doing any enhancements, since I suffer from dry eyes and slow healing process. I actually had DLK stage one on my right eye, but that has cleared up now....:)
  • BigGirlBlue Feb 11, 2012 @ 3:40 pm | delete
    I was so positive I responded to this message. Based on my experience I would say yes but it really something you should discuss with your doctor as there may be other issues he could discuss with you. I wouldn't do any enhancements for at least a year but that is me. I hope things have improved since you posted.
  • Tipi Jan 27, 2012 @ 2:28 am | delete
    Returning with a blessing for those beautiful eyes!
  • aesta1 Jan 13, 2012 @ 8:47 pm | delete
    I had been considering this for years but fear just gets over me. My sister had one and is really happy with her new vision.
  • TRedding Dec 1, 2011 @ 8:01 am | delete
    I am currently considering LASIK at TLC and am actually booked for Jan. I am wondering how you find night driving today? do you have problems with star bursts? or floaters? any honest feedback would be great. Do you find you saw better before in glasses?? Thanks so much :)
  • marianne b Dec 1, 2011 @ 1:47 pm | delete
    I have issues with night driving - my doctor gave me a prescription for night driving. I did not like glasses and I had monovision and I can see the computer and paperwork great now without glasses, but if I had to do it again, I would not do it. My opinion. It's overrated.
  • BigGirlBlue Dec 1, 2011 @ 1:50 pm | delete
    I always had difficulty driving at night when I had glasses, glares, clarity. If on a highway I would have cars passing me because I was going so slow. I find my vision is actually improved some but outdoor light fixtures are not really start bursts per se but they are not just light fixtures either, there is a bit of a glow to them. But I am not bothered by them while driving. I guess everyone is different. I do not do a lot of night driving because I don't have to. Apparently there are special driving glasses you can get if there is a problem with night driving after surgery but I cannot vouch for them. Taking in to account how much night driving you do is very important before making your decision. Unfortunately, there is no way to predict how your eyes will respond. Talk to your doctor about the stats and night driving glasses so you can make an informed decision.
  • RenaissanceWoman2010 Nov 8, 2011 @ 7:50 pm | delete
    It was interesting to read about your lasik journey. I had this same surgery several years ago. Like you, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't run right out and go through the experience again. The surgery was nothing. I was amazed with that part of the process. My eyes were so dry afterwards (and still). I do wear a very minor prescription now for reading and driving. The whole science of Lasik is mind-boggling. It is amazing the options we have these days. Thanks for sharing so others can better consider the choices. Appreciated!
  • Marianne B Nov 8, 2011 @ 1:34 pm | delete
    I had lasik on October 28th. I had inflammation in the right eye (for distance). I had monovision - left eye for close up - right eye for distance. They decided to lift the flap and rewash the right eye. The next day the inflammation was gone and now I just have corneal swelling. The swelling is gone down, I only have to do the steroid drops in the right eye every 4 hours, with the antibiotic. I cannot see to drive at night, the halos are awful. will this ever go away? I'm worried. Today I have water coming from my right eye. Is that a sign of healing. Will I ever be able to drive at night. I'm concerned. Thank you.
  • BigGirlBlue Nov 8, 2011 @ 7:49 pm | delete
    Any concerns you have you should definitely talk with your surgeon or eye doctor. It is still really early so try not to concern yourself with halos at the moment you still have some healing to do. But definitely talk to your doctor and get your concerns and symptoms addressed -- there is no such thing as being too paranoid when it comes to your eyes and your surgeon/eye doctor will know best.
  • Marianne B Nov 9, 2011 @ 10:56 am | delete
    Thank you for your reply. I really appreciate it. Depending on people to drive me to and from work is something I'm having a hard time with. I am definitely staying in touch with the doctors.
  • BigGirlBlue Nov 9, 2011 @ 2:15 pm | delete
    If the halos persist I think there is a special eye glass you can get for driving at night. Ask your doctor about it.
  • Laser Eye Surgery Risks Oct 25, 2011 @ 8:40 pm | delete
    I have made some bad decisions in my life but having Lasik is not one. I am greatful for the fantastic vision I enjoy.
  • whereru1960 Oct 25, 2011 @ 8:37 pm | delete
    I had Lasik 4 years ago. I was legally blind in my right eye with glasses. Since my procedure my eyes have stabilized and I enjoy great vision now. I can't believe I sat on the fence so long.
  • Jamie-Isherwood Oct 25, 2011 @ 1:24 pm | delete
    what a great story my mom had the surgery done as well dryness and sensitivity. Your story is awesome and very well detailed. I found it very informative
  • FlowerChick Oct 19, 2011 @ 5:20 pm | delete
    Nicely done - very informative lens! I had this same surgery 6 years ago and it was one of the best things I've ever done! No problems, just some dryness the 1st six months and a little light sensitivity. Since then, perfect vision...no contacts, no eyeglasses, no hassles. I'm very happy I took the plunge!
  • Hairdresser007 Oct 2, 2011 @ 12:39 am | delete
    I like how honest you were in it. Very balanced. I am so nervous to get this since my eyes are so important for what I do. I am still hesitant. Also the down time would have to be scheduled so I wouldn't have to work. Thank you!
  • jays23 Sep 30, 2011 @ 5:40 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing your experience. You were so brave just going through that surgery. I have been near sighted since I was 13 and I have been wearing contact lenses but the thought of surgery on my eyes really scares me. Your lens was full of insights. This is a great read!
  • samsaradakini Sep 29, 2011 @ 12:33 am | delete
    That was very excellent documentation of your experience! I selected No, I am not considering it because I had similar already and I LOVE the freedom of no glasses so much!!! I am so glad you love it.... I have so many friends who had Lasik and were also happy with it. [They could not do it on me as my corneas are too thin so I had to have PRK which is a harder recovery apparently. Maybe I'll Lens *my* experience.] I use those same brand of drops and love them.
  • ajgodinho Sep 25, 2011 @ 10:53 pm | delete
    Excellent lens on your experience with eye surgery. I've been wearing glasses for about 10 year now mainly for driving. I'm slowly starting to have little trouble reading small print which I could read clearly before. I've thought about laser surgery, however, I'm so not comfortable putting any foreign body in my eye that I wouldn't even consider wearing contact lenses. But maybe one day, I will seriously think about it. Thanks for sharing this detailed information with us...it was really helpful and I'm glad that overall it went well for you. Congrats on LOTD!
  • Erin Sep 25, 2011 @ 8:37 pm | delete
    Thank you so much for that. I have my appt. on friday and I really wanted to know what it felt like after and what to expect...noone seemed to be able to answer that for me. Your description was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you.
  • Athf Sep 24, 2011 @ 11:56 am | delete
    Your lens is great :)
  • DebMartin Sep 24, 2011 @ 11:45 am | delete
    Thank you for all the information and congratulations on your success with Lasik. Good for you!
  • MiaBellezza Sep 23, 2011 @ 8:59 pm | delete
    Glasses are a pain. Luckily I only need them for reading and distance i.e. while driving. I remember when I got my first contacts and they insisted that they train me on how to put them in. Well apparently I don't like anything poking around my eyes. I got over it though. I still think your brave.
  • quicpost Sep 23, 2011 @ 7:06 pm | delete
    Thanks for your article it really is helpful. I was thinking about laser surgery until my doctor said I have dry AMD. I pray to Holy Saint Lucy for healing and curing my eyes. I love to read. Thanks again.
  • msbaby Sep 23, 2011 @ 5:39 pm | delete
    I haven't compared our actual prescriptions but your pre-Lasik history is identical to my own. Glasses really stink and I get so very tired of dealing with contacts so your story was very interesting to me. Being a total surgery-phobic person, I (get ready this sounds like you, too) will probably have to think about it for quite a while before jumping in and getting the procedure but thanks to you I have added another check or two in the "positive" column of having it done. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience.
  • rauspitz Sep 23, 2011 @ 12:23 pm | delete
    Besides being a really good lens this has been highly informative and very, very helpful (yes, I am thinking of Lasik surgery). Many thanks for taking the time to relate your experience.
  • seeker2011 Sep 23, 2011 @ 7:19 am | delete
    Like many, hate glasses, can not wear contacts. But the cost of eye surgery is a little bit too much for now. One day. Nice lense, or perhaps... No need for lenses!
  • Laniann Sep 23, 2011 @ 6:54 am | delete
    Your are truly amazing that you had Lasik surgery. I would be too frightened to do anything like that.
  • Wysiwigs Sep 23, 2011 @ 4:06 am | delete
    This is great...corrective eye surgery has been on my radar for a really long time (I HATE my glasses ;o) I'm with Warner though; 'til I win the lottery or something it's probably not gonna happen. Congratulations on LOTD and your nice new vision!
  • GreenPlanetEnergy Sep 23, 2011 @ 3:50 am | delete
    I really admire you for your guts. I have thought about it, but I cannot see myself doing it, I'm even scared of the cataract surgery that is in my future already.
  • SheilaVine Sep 23, 2011 @ 2:46 am | delete
    Well I've thought about it but I am still too scared thanks for the lens
  • LaraineRose Sep 23, 2011 @ 2:29 am | delete
    What a wonderful accounting. I have never had eye surgery, wear glasses, but only for reading. I have family members who have had this surgery and it was very successful! If I needed it this lens would make it so much easier because I'd know what to expect. Thank you.
  • australiasbest Sep 23, 2011 @ 2:15 am | delete
    Very informative lense and congratulations on the LOTD!. Excellent work.
  • WeirdStuff Sep 23, 2011 @ 2:08 am | delete
    It's scary, but glasses are annoying. I think I will wait a bit more (let the technology advance even more :) and then have it too!
  • AlishaV Sep 23, 2011 @ 12:34 am | delete
    Congrats on LOTD! I've thought about getting lasik for years since like you I've had glasses and contacts since I was young and find them especially to be a bother when trying to hike, swim, etc. Maybe I'll try to get the money together to get it done, it certainly sounds like it's worth it.
  • mrducksmrnot Sep 22, 2011 @ 10:33 pm | delete
    Congratulations on Lens of the Day. Wow. This should be published for the clinic and eye doctors you went to. Well documented day by day, weeks and months of constant change for the better. So glad it was successful for you. The eye's are the window to the soul I've always heard. Your Heart and Soul was sure well put in this Lens Of The Day Thanks so much for sharing and especially the wonderful blessing of having a spouse that was willing to stay the course throughout the complete healing process. He deserves a squid blessing also so tell him so from a little squid and all of the other squids that left their comments.
  • TheGourmetCoffeeGuy Sep 22, 2011 @ 10:23 pm | delete
    Very interesting lens, great testimonial and detailed insights about the whole experience for this surgical procedure. Thank you for sharing.
  • KimGiancaterino Sep 22, 2011 @ 9:27 pm | delete
    You've added a poll since my last visit. I'm amazed at the number of people considering Lasik (myself included). Exceptional job on the lens -- so glad to see you honored for LOTD!
  • IdeaCenter Sep 22, 2011 @ 9:26 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing your experience. I've heard so many conflicting facts about Lasik so it's good to hear about it from someone firsthand. I'm glad to hear that you have had a successful end result.
  • alandra Sep 22, 2011 @ 9:18 pm | delete
    Great Lens. A lot of people rush into LASIK before knowing all the facts or down playing the issues that can come up. I'm glad to see you were thorough. Several years ago my dad got LASIK surgery. They told him he was an ideal candidate and never really explained the complications that can develop. One of his lasers was incorrectly programmed and cut too deep into the eye. He became legally blind in one eye and less than ideal results on the other eye. He suffers from severe dry eyes, large halos and star-bursts at night making him unable to drive at night as required by his job. He sued the company and got a settlement.

    Your eyes are so incredibly important so make sure your research as much as possible about the procedure as find out who the best doctors are in your area. Get stories from their patients if you can will help you make an informed decision.

    Honestly with my experience I don't think I will ever consider eye surgery. When I think of the number of times glasses have saved my eyes from some pokey thing landing in them I'm incredibly glad they are there for that extra level of protection. = )
  • emmalarkins Sep 22, 2011 @ 8:29 pm | delete
    I had it done, and I was so happy with the results!
  • KarenCookieJar Sep 22, 2011 @ 8:28 pm | delete
    I really enjoyed reading your entire story and you did a fantastic job explaining step by step. I have dry eyes already which prevent me from wearing contacts and my eye doctor has said that may cause a problem if I would ever want to get lasik. I didn't realize how much the procedure drys out your eyes until reading your experience! Now, I think, I should rule it out for myself. I'm glad things turned out well for you in the end, it sounded like a long recovery.
  • gypsyman27 Sep 22, 2011 @ 8:22 pm | delete
    You have provided an inside view into what it is like to have this surgery. This could be comfort to so many, and isn't that what we are about? This is very good, well done. See you around the galaxy...
  • WarnerRobins2 Sep 22, 2011 @ 7:56 pm | delete
    thanks for the info. I'd love to have this done, but probably can't afford it. Maybe there is a pay for one eye get the other free coupon....LOL.
  • lbrummer Sep 22, 2011 @ 7:52 pm | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD. Well deserved with this interesting and informative lens.
  • ReelHard Sep 22, 2011 @ 7:42 pm | delete
    As a commercial airline pilot my eyes are my job. I wore contacts and glasses for 15yrs and after talking to fellow pilots that had it done I took the leap of faith and did it. My only regret was not doing it sooner! Im seeing better than 20/20..actually 20/15. I did it 3 yrs ago.
  • halloweenprops Sep 22, 2011 @ 7:05 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing your experience. It's good to hear from someone that has had it done!
  • vinodkpillai Sep 22, 2011 @ 6:57 pm | delete
    This was such an interesting walk-through that I am wondering why I am struggling with spectacles. Congratulations for being picked for LOTD!
  • whitewarhorse88 Sep 22, 2011 @ 6:47 pm | delete
    Another good educational lens very useful to know indeed
  • DLeighAlexander Sep 22, 2011 @ 6:39 pm | delete
    Very informative. Thanks for sharing your brave journey and glad your operation was successful. Congratulations on LotD.
  • jwncoexists Sep 22, 2011 @ 6:33 pm | delete
    Thanks for your story, my son is considering this, and I got a better idea for what is involved from reading your lens.
  • MysticTurtle Sep 22, 2011 @ 6:27 pm | delete
    Thank you for writing this and sharing. I've always wondered about the details of Lasik. Good to hear it from a personal perspective. Congrats on LOTD!
  • Nibbled Sep 22, 2011 @ 6:11 pm | delete
    Thank you so much for sharing each step of the process for you. I have a prescription just slightly worse than yours but I am lucky enough to be able to wear the 30 days and night lenses, sleeping in them comfortably. If I wasn't or ever am not able to sleep in my contacts I will be looking into eye surgery. Curious why you wouldn't do it all over again? Is the dry eye more irritating than dealing with glasses?
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 22, 2011 @ 6:41 pm | delete
    It was the pain after the topical wore off. It improved significantly after a few hours but was still more painful than I ever thought it would be. I also had an unique situation with the edema afterwards that required numerous visits. It's hard to say if a second surgery would be easier or worse and I'd rather not find out. ;)
  • Jeff_McRitchie Sep 22, 2011 @ 5:49 pm | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD! You did an awesome job of chronicling your experience. Good for you for taking the plunge!
  • jseven Sep 22, 2011 @ 5:40 pm | delete
    Congrats on LOTD. I am one who will not let anyone mess with my eyes as the thought of losing them at all is too risky. I know many people do well with this surgery and then there are those who don't, so it is a gamble.
  • cdcraftee Sep 22, 2011 @ 5:05 pm | delete
    Well-deserved LOTD for such an in-depth story about a subject most of us fear greatly - significant problems with our vision. You truly provide -
    'Kindness in another's trouble,
    Courage in your own'.
    Thank you for sharing SO much.
    Christine
  • Tipi Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:07 pm | delete
    Three days of Squidoo, now that is self control! Wonderfully shared journey and I love that you share the ups and downs that will help others in making the choice Lasik surgery. I like that you share that you might not run to do it again but you are glad you did do it, that helps with a lot of perspective. O f course this is excellent, its LotD!
  • Blonde_Blythe Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:06 pm | delete
    Enjoyed your story, and I'm glad you no longer have to wear glasses! Congrats on your well-deserved LotD! :)
  • kiwisoutback Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:06 pm | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD! I have a friend who is interested in Lasik, but is on the fence about it. I'll have to forward this lens along. Squid Angel blessed!
  • wowitsmenow Sep 22, 2011 @ 3:40 pm | delete
    You say you were annoyed with the lenses, I'm in my early 20s and have been wearing contacts almost every day for 2 years. My eyes are often quite dry. Did you also have the same symptoms? If so, do you think contacts are a bad idea? Like you say, use them just for special occasions? Thank you!
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:54 pm | delete
    I think contacts are awesome and serve a purpose. I did suffer from dry eyes with contact wear and used eye drops which is probably why I don't mind having to continue to use eye drops post surgery. I think it is important to give your eyes a break from contacts and to follow proper hygiene recommendations from your eye doctor.
  • RichLeigh Sep 22, 2011 @ 3:39 pm | delete
    Congratulations on the Lens of the Day. Glad to hear it was such a success!
  • NevermoreShirts Sep 22, 2011 @ 3:24 pm | delete
    What a great lens! Very insightful for anyone who might be pondering undergoing this surgery. :)
  • JennySui Sep 22, 2011 @ 3:17 pm | delete
    Congrats on LOTD! Thanks for sharing your experience with us.
  • ViolinStudent Sep 22, 2011 @ 3:03 pm | delete
    My wife had Lasik surgery probably eight years ago. She's never regretted it. She's having some other vision issues now, but not related to the surger!
  • eclypsechic Sep 22, 2011 @ 3:02 pm | delete
    This was such a great lens! I've been wanting to get this done for years, but my vision just stopped changing about a year ago so I wasn't able to move forward yet. Thanks for all of the great info!
  • heehaw Sep 22, 2011 @ 2:44 pm | delete
    er... is it painful while doing the surgery? i wore glasses since i was about 16years old. did not wear contact lens before, always rely on glasses only to see the world.
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:51 pm | delete
    No pain during surgery. They apply a topical. I felt a little pressure when they put in the clamps. But no pain during procedure.
  • ddixonart Sep 22, 2011 @ 2:30 pm | delete
    I'm glad this lens won LOTD. I remember reading it before and it is the first webpage that I've ever found that gave me a good idea of what would happen. Your photos are a big help too, and this page is very useful to many people as they make a decision about Lasik.
  • Heather426 Sep 22, 2011 @ 1:13 pm | delete
    Congrats on LOTD!
  • BunnyFabulous Sep 22, 2011 @ 12:59 pm | delete
    I was told I could only have PRK since my corneas are so thin. That was 5 years ago, so maybe there have been some advances. Wasn't up for it then, but may be in the future. Thanks for taking us along on your journey. Congrats on LOTD!
  • musings Sep 22, 2011 @ 12:56 pm | delete
    Great write-up...and congratulations!

    I had my first consult for corrective eye surgery back in about 1991 and had decided to wait for the technology to mature some more. Over the years I would periodically revisit it. It's not so much I minded wearing glasses, you tend to forget about them being plastered to your face, but I have always been very active and it was during my participation in various activities (dancing, sailing, swimming, running, motorcycle riding, etc.) that they became such a bother.

    In 2006 (yes, 15 years later ;-) I took the plunge and had the surgery performed at the Edmonton office of www.clearlylasik.com by Dr. King. I was fortunate in that I had no complications and five years later am still 20/20 in both eyes!

    I have really enjoyed not having to wear glasses. Recently, I've entered into the age of needing reading glasses/magnifiers. I was forwarned that this happening is a completely different physiological process in the eye and that lasik surgery would not address it. If I was every going to need reading glasses prior to the surgery, I would still need them after the surgery. So, now for reading I wear a prescription contact in one eye - still a far cry from having to depend on prescription eye glasses for everyday living. And I'll continue to watch the developments to maybe one day correct this too :-)

    The decision to have corrective eye surgery certainly isn't one to take lightly. As I mentioned, I took my time, 15 years in total. Squidoos, and other write ups, like this one are a great resource for anyone who's considering it. I did my reasearch until I was completley comfortable with the risks and continue to be tremendously pleased with the results.

    Thanks for sharing your experience!
  • ElkieRog Sep 22, 2011 @ 12:49 pm | delete
    Thank you for all of your effort. I have never researched this possibility, because I only wear glasses to read, because at 76 years old, my arms are no longer long enough and the print is getting smaller.

    But several friends have had this done and along with my son. It is nice to understand what was done. Most people are hesitant to unwilling to share this kind of detail.
  • Widemouth Sep 22, 2011 @ 12:49 pm | delete
    That was an excellent article. Thanks for all the details (the good, the bad, and the ugly). I wish you a full recovery :)
  • Nightcat Sep 22, 2011 @ 12:47 pm | delete
    Wow, I don't think I could go through all that. I have extreme nearsightednes and astigmatisim, so I'd hate to see my results.
  • bhthanks Sep 22, 2011 @ 12:12 pm | delete
    wow. what a story. thanks for sharing.
  • EricStifel Sep 22, 2011 @ 12:11 pm | delete
    Very interesting and informative. My vision has been declining in the past few years and this is something I have been giving slight thought to. I'm still a bit apprehensive, but I'll keep doing my research, and reading stories like yours, and who knows, perhaps one day I'll bite the bullet and go for it as well. Thanks for sharing..
  • poutine Sep 22, 2011 @ 11:46 am | delete
    Is it the same procedure they they do for a cataracts?
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:46 pm | delete
    No. This surgery is done to the cornea while cataract surgery involves the lens of the eye.
  • TeamSTM Sep 22, 2011 @ 11:38 am | delete
    Yeah, I have thought about this, my sight is still pretty good but as you age your sight decreases little by little every year.
  • prosperity66 Sep 22, 2011 @ 11:32 am | delete
    Something I'm thinking about... Lasik surgery... Your lens makes this surgery quite attractive - more than I thought before.
  • djroll Sep 22, 2011 @ 11:28 am | delete
    Great lens. Congrats on the LOTD and purple star. My mother-in-law had lasik surgery last year at age 75. She's doing wonderful and often tells me how blessed she is. She had cataracks removed in both eyes.
  • EverythingMouse Sep 22, 2011 @ 11:27 am | delete
    I have worn contacts and glasses since my teens. It was so interesting reading your honest story of the reality of the process. I would like the end result but am not prepared to go through the procedure and the risk! Angel Blessings to you
  • scarlettohairy Sep 22, 2011 @ 11:20 am | delete
    Great recap of your lasik experience. I looked into it but am so scared I never had it done.
  • Swisstoons Sep 22, 2011 @ 11:02 am | delete
    Another potential, and very serious, complication to consider is retinal detachment. Any eye surgery...even cataract surgery...increases the chances of RD. In my case, the RD in my right eye occurred spontaneously with no prior surgery. (I'm very nearsighted with blue eyes and was subject to migraines...all risk factor for RD) The "corrective" surgery for RD is no picnic. And the results of "successful" RD surgery are so iffy that I would shun any elective eye surgery which might increase my chances, even a little bit, of having to undergo such an operation.
  • PeteSchultz Sep 22, 2011 @ 10:47 am | delete
    Congrats on LOTD, I've browsed your lenses before....Squidoo lenses that is....and as usual, you've provided a very informative and discriptive narrative with plenty of visuals....given the topic, that must be a good thing. I recall when I first had visual screening and got glasses in the first grade. On the way home from the optometrist I realized people stopped at stop signs becvause they said STOP right on them!
  • LNAngel Sep 22, 2011 @ 10:02 am | delete
    Such great info! I've been considering this.
  • TravelingRae Sep 22, 2011 @ 9:55 am | delete
    Thank you for this informative lens. I'd love to be free of glasses, but I am so worried about something going wrong...
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:42 pm | delete
    Oh, I was definitely worried too. There's no getting around that. Right up to the last minute I was worried. But I decided it was time for ME to work through it.
  • sandyspider Sep 22, 2011 @ 9:31 am | delete
    Congratulations on your LOTD!
  • d-artist Sep 22, 2011 @ 9:22 am | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD! great story and I'm very happy it worked for you...I have two friends this did not work right and have to wear their glasses again.
  • AlleyCatLane Sep 22, 2011 @ 9:06 am | delete
    Wow! I am going to have to have cataract surgery not too far down the road. They told me replacing the cornea will make my vision normal so I won't need glasses. I hope it is less complicated than your ordeal. Had no idea it took so long to heal. Thanks for sharing.
  • amylaine Sep 22, 2011 @ 8:58 am | delete
    I have always thought about getting Lasik done, it was great to hear your story. Thanks.
  • cffutah Sep 22, 2011 @ 8:49 am | delete
    I had lasik about 6 years ago, true believer is doing what I had done. If you also like to browse lens, mine has a great educational topic with poll questions for my readers to do.
  • partybuzz Sep 22, 2011 @ 8:49 am | delete
    Thanks for sharing your experience with lasik surgery. Congratulations on LotD!
  • VickiSims Sep 22, 2011 @ 8:20 am | delete
    Came back to congratulate you on LOTD!
  • legaleze Sep 22, 2011 @ 8:06 am | delete
    Thanks for sharing your experience. I have always debated about doing this but since my eyes are dry already I am hesitant to take the plunge.
  • NidhiRajat Sep 22, 2011 @ 7:18 am | delete
    I do wear glasses..wanna have lasik laser one day, thanks for such a nice information and congrats for lens of the Day award.
  • agoofyidea Sep 22, 2011 @ 7:16 am | delete
    Congratulatins on LOTD. Your story is very important for anyone wanting to do Lazik surgery. I know two people who have done it. One friend had zero problems and is so happy to be without glasses. My aunt had major problems and virtually could not see for six months. She had to wait that long before they could try again. The second time it went much better and like you she had a long recovery time, but is happy to be without glasses now. Great lens.
  • PaulosDK Sep 22, 2011 @ 6:44 am | delete
    I am not really interested in eye surgery, but this is a very informative lens and well written!well done on LOTD!
  • aussieremovals Sep 22, 2011 @ 6:10 am | delete
    Great lens!
  • bercton Sep 22, 2011 @ 5:52 am | delete
    Great details of LASIK eye survey.Congratulations on LOTD!
  • candy47 Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:54 am | delete
    Congratulations on Lens of the Day. Everything that I want to know about lasik surgery, all in one place. Thanks for a great lens!
  • tvyps Sep 22, 2011 @ 2:37 am | delete
    Couldn't imagine that it would make eyes any prettier than yours were already, but it did! Nice lens! Congrats on LOTD.
  • AVF281 Sep 22, 2011 @ 1:44 am | delete
    I underwent LASIK surgery about six years ago, before that I used to wear glasses for a long time.

    At first I was reluctant to undergo LASIK, but after a while I don't regret the procedure. In fact, my sight has never become better. Thanks for this lens.
  • WindyWinters Sep 22, 2011 @ 1:21 am | delete
    Congrats on LOTD! Glad to hear your surgery went well. You are pretty brave to have had the surgery. I have worn bifocals for the last few years but don't usually wear glasses at home as they are a nuisance. I don't mind contacts or glasses but what I don't like is having to wear separate computer glasses or reading glasses with contacts. I can't win.
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:29 pm | delete
    I don't know about brave. It took me a number of years to work up to it. If you don't mind it there is no reason to change. ;)
  • jasminesphotography Sep 22, 2011 @ 12:51 am | delete
    What a very well written and detailed lens about the subject. Congrats to you on your LOTD, you definitely deserve it!
  • intermarks Sep 22, 2011 @ 12:07 am | delete
    Any kind of surgery will have risk, I myself have gone through the cataract extraction surgery on both of my eyes, and I am glad that I have done it, or else I might be blind by now. No risk no gain!
  • davidcam Sep 21, 2011 @ 11:42 pm | delete
    Nice lens... Congrats for LOTD
  • DavidCzajka Sep 21, 2011 @ 11:39 pm | delete
    My question is not about any surgery but its about contact lenses. Many people told me that using contact lenses is not good for our eyes but i really like to use them once as wanna see people's reaction on my eyes color changing. Will you please tell me if there is any side effects after using contact lenses or is there any company who produce enough good contact lenses which i can use.
    Thanks
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 22, 2011 @ 4:24 pm | delete
    The problem is not with the contact lenses per se but with personal care. Many lens wearers get complacent with their contact lens routine. Developing a personal routine of cleaning and care for the lenses is vital. As is not over wearing them (i.e. wearing them for 10 to 14 hour days 7 days a week - not good for eyes). There are side effects to every thing but with proper care and wear they are reduced. It has been a while since I have worn contact lenses but I always liked Bausch & Lomb as well as Acuvue. Talk with your eye doctor, he will help pick the best lenses for you.
  • crudeoilsystems Sep 21, 2011 @ 11:13 pm | delete
    Great lens, thanks for being opened that we can learn from your experience.
  • Tina Aug 28, 2011 @ 9:08 pm | delete
    I am 38 old now, is that worthy to do LASIK eye surgery?
    Many Thanks!
  • BigGirlBlue Aug 28, 2011 @ 9:21 pm | delete
    Talk about it with your doctor but people much older than 38 have had Lasik eye surgery. I was in my late 30s.
  • Einsteinium Sep 22, 2011 @ 8:57 am | delete
    My grandmother had it in her 60s!
  • david Aug 18, 2011 @ 9:31 pm | delete
    great article!
    i just want to ask a question. i had a lasik a month ago. my left eye's vision is perfect but my right eye is still blurry, something like a dirty lens on it. is it something one of the side-effects? did this happen to anyone?
    thanks,
  • BigGirlBlue Aug 18, 2011 @ 9:50 pm | delete
    Your eyes still may be compensating to the changes. It is definitely something to mention to your surgeon/optometrist but I imagine it is part of the healing process. Definitely talk to your doctor to get his input and directions on followup.
  • cthulhu Jul 13, 2011 @ 4:50 pm | delete
    Superb lens! Enough info here for 5 lenses.
  • Torontoworker Jun 7, 2011 @ 11:47 am | delete
    The lasik MD proceeure worked well for me - I'm still 20/15 six years after. What doesn't work well is the fact they do not inform you at the time of buying the extra insurance is that after 5 years these 'mandatory' check up's are $90 plus HST EVERY YEAR AFTER! So inside of 10 years I will have given them near enough to a $1000 just to perhaps have a 'touch up' if it is needed based upon THEIR opinion. That $1000 is equal to what I paid for one eye. I'm sorry I paid the $500 fee for insurance as clearly it is a bait tactic to garb more cash. I believe what you are doing paying the fee is paying an insurance company they have made a deal with to take the coverage (gamble) that you won't require a touch up for at least quite a few years. If you do - Lasik MD does the touch up at an agreed rate for the insurance company at a price the public could never get, perhaps at Lasik's net cost factor. The touch up could be as little as $200 to cover what would be billed to the insurance company who may have made four times that amount off of you when they split the check up fees with Lasik. Thats my take on all of this and would never had taken out the insurance in the first place had I known of the check up fees after the five year period. Whats that about hindsight being 20/20? Oh wait... -:)
  • ClassyGals Mar 17, 2011 @ 1:04 pm | delete
    Lucky Leprechaun Angel Blessings!
  • KimGiancaterino Feb 7, 2011 @ 10:18 pm | delete
    I really appreciate hearing your experiences in such detail. Someday I'll have the procedure, but the timing isn't right now. I've worn contacts since my 20s, but have relied mainly on my glasses this past year. I'm frightfully nearsighted.
  • BigGirlBlue May 9, 2011 @ 10:29 pm | delete
    I had to work up to it. The whole concept if you think too much about it would main a crazy person run for the hills. The timing definitely has to be right and it really helps to have someone to help you out at home the first few days with drops and such.
  • MrDryEyes Jan 17, 2011 @ 11:51 am | delete
    Thanks for commenting so soon. I think I could deal with a few drops a day. Are your eyes comfortable most of the day with using just a few drops? I hope mine will get more comfortable soon. When you were at the four or five months were your eyes very uncomfortable? How often did you have to use drops around that time? I use drops around every 30 minutes to try to keep them comfortable. I know that was a while back for you. My dr has put me on restasis to see if it will help promote tears. You should ask your dr about it. It has helped some people who have dry eyes but it does take a month or two to start working. The plugs are put in the drain hole of the eye to slow down the draining of tears.
  • BigGirlBlue Jan 17, 2011 @ 6:59 pm | delete
    I was using refresh drops a couple times a day and Muro 128 ointment at night time. When I keep up with using the drops catching them before they get too dry I feel better. I find the drops first thing in the morning, before I get in the car (where warm air is blowing etc helps. I also find they feel better when I'm drinking more water. My eyes felt the best when there was no air conditioning or heating on, so for a few weeks in the fall. LOL. I don't feel incapacitated by the dryness. If I'm busy I can forget about them.
  • MrDryEyes Jan 15, 2011 @ 10:04 am | delete
    Hey great lens. I had lasik about four months and one week ago. My eyes weren't really that bad I just wanted to get rid of my glasses. At this point I wish I would have just stayed with my glasses. Although the surgery went well and I can see 20/15 with no problem I have terrible dry eyes. I'm using lube drops around every thirty minutes or so just to keep them comfortable and use gel or ointment at night. They are very tired by evening and I go to bed much earlier than I used to. I don't remember having dry eyes before other than not able to wear contact lens. My Dr. just started me on restasis and I will get puctual plugs to try and get over the hump. Have you or anyone else ever tryed restasis or plugs? Just wondering about the sucess rate. I hope its good. My Dr did a tear test on me this week where she put a paper stick under the lower eyelid to measure the tear production. Normal healthy lubed eyes is 20mm on the paper stick and my right eye was 2mm and left was 6mm. I would just like to say If you are comfortable with your glasses or contacts I would just keep them from my experiance so far. It can give you anxiaty. I love your lens and glad I found it. Its good to have a place to talk about it. I hate to be so negative but this hasn't be such a good experience for me. Thanks.
  • BigGirlBlue Jan 16, 2011 @ 9:15 pm | delete
    Hello MrDryEyes, thanks for commenting. It's just been over 2 years and I'm still suffering from dry eyes. I have to use drops first thing in the morning and about 3 to 4 times throughout the day, then I have a special salt drop (name escapes me at the moment) that I take at bed time. Overall, I'm still glad that I had the surgery because my vision was so bad. I'm not overly bothered by having to do the drops. If I still had glasses I'd be cleaning glasses throughout the day or constantly readjusting them for comfort so I feel this is still a better alternative than what I had. I've never heard of restasis or plugs so can't comment on them. I hope it works for you. You're eyes are still healing so hopefully you'll feel some improvement over the next few months.
  • ddixonart Dec 21, 2010 @ 8:21 am | delete
    Terrific lens. Like you, I've been wearing eyeglasses since I was about 6-years-old and I have a very strong prescription. I have been considering Lasik for sometime in the future. Not sure if I'm up to it, after reading your lens. I appreciate all the honest information. The eye doctors want to make it sound as simple as buying milk. I knew there had to be a bit more to it. Now I have a better idea of my actual commitment (main thing would be time for me) before deciding to move forward with this. With the advent of polycarbonate lenses and edge buffing, I don't have ultra-thick glasses anymore, and I guess I am just pretty used to them.
  • BigGirlBlue Dec 26, 2010 @ 9:34 pm | delete
    Thanks, you're sweet. I really don't want to discourage people but more to have them be prepared. The procedure is definitely easy peasy and we all heal differently. You've been wearing glasses for a long time so you can already handle the commitment. Think of it this way, what if you were out on the highway and got into an accident where your glasses were broken (my husband actually posed this question when I was thinking of hming and hawing again)?. Even though there has been more commitment on my part and I have to deal with dry eyes, I'm still glad I did it. Everyone has to make their own decision in their own time for sure.
  • VickiSims Dec 4, 2010 @ 10:42 pm | delete
    I had Lasik on my eyes over 10 years ago (in about 1999) and have never regretted the decision. It has been so great to be able to see without glasses. I started to need reading glasses about 4 years ago, but still much better than needing them for distance AND reading. I think your detailed lens with so much useful information will help many people who are trying to decide whether or not to have the procedure done. Blessed by a SquidAngel.
  • poddys Oct 31, 2010 @ 6:00 am | delete
    Excellent information, and it's interesting to read a blow by blow account of a lasik surgery that didn't go 100% as expected. I have thought about this, but my eyesight isn't too bad yet. At 56 I have only been wearing glasses for reading for 2 years, but the frustration at having to put them on to use the computer, and to read anything - like instructions on food packets, is getting to me. A lot of DIY jobs I do around the house now require my glasses as well. I would love to be able to see properly again.
  • Sue the countrymom Sep 25, 2010 @ 12:55 pm | delete
    Just a note to let you know that it's been 3 days dince my surgery and I am doing really well. Thanks to a dear husband, I have been treated like the queen of Sheeba (the drops were very tricky at first due to major light sensitivity) and my vision continues to improve daily. The 24 hour 1st appointment yesterday with the eye dr was great - all's well. By last night I could see clearly up to about 6 feet away - then quite blurry. This morning I was able to read large letters on magazines and since having another nap I am able to type this to you!!! Yea LASIK - best thing I could have done! Well, I'm off to rest again..will drop back soon, Sue
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 25, 2010 @ 1:22 pm | delete
    Congratulations. I'm glad it went well. I know what you mean about having the DH around. I can't imagine how single people manage with it. My DH helped me out so much especially those first few days. Get lots of rest, drink lots of water, and be religious with those drops. Talk to you soon Sue!
  • Sue thecountrymom Sep 16, 2010 @ 6:26 pm | delete
    I'm thrilled to have popped onto your site. I have been to TLC and LasikMD this week in London ON and can't decide which company. At -7 and -8 they both recommend the wavefront custom Lasik procedure. I have great thick corneas in the event of regression/enhancement (25% of similar candidates to me need it, I was told)The difference in the price is over $1100 ($3200 and $4300!) The surgeons are both excellent (25,000 and 30,000 procedures respectively with tremendous credentials). BIG decision - hate to make it on $$ alone!

    My question to you is actually more personal. I am 47, post menopausal with a 4 year old (lucky me - some days it's as if I have 5 kids, especially if I have several hot flashes in a row!) I am really really concerned about dry eyes going forward. Having worn contacts since I was 16, I am ready to do Lasik and wondered if you have experienced or know of how hormonal changes can affect this dry eye issue (I don't have it with contacts at the moment). Several eye drops daily for the next 30 years seems a little daunting too...still unsure -and thanks for your advice/suggestions, Sue

    Thanks and congrats on your fabulous, informative lens,
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 16, 2010 @ 9:09 pm | delete
    I had to deal with the difference of cost too but ultimately my husband and I felt the added cost, newer equipment, and facilities were worth it.

    I'm still experiencing dry eyes. Air conditioning had a big tole on them this summer but I survived. Lots of water to keep them lubricated. I'm shocked you didn't experience dry eyes with contacts. I always did.

    In the big picture, I don't mind the eye drops at all. I can see, I don't have glasses/contacts/solutions etc to take care of. Some eye drops over not being able to see... Pick up a bottle of eye drops for dry eyes or something and try using them for a week. It will give you an idea of what's it's like. No one can predict whether you are going to have dry eyes or not. Some people don't get them at all afterwards. Good luck. And do let me know if you get the surgery and how it goes!
  • Sue thecountrymom Sep 17, 2010 @ 3:45 pm | delete
    Thanks for your quick reply.

    After much discussion with my husband, online research, a sleepless night and another conversation with the surgical consultant at TLC, this morning I made the decision and my surgery is Sept 23rd. Whew - I can't wait! TLC overall took bit more time with me and seemed more professional in their approach. They also competed more pre-surgery details - (no contacts for 2 weeks (and I've been in my glasses for a month now, vs 24 hours, lid wipes and antibiotic drops 5 days prior to suregery) and I was able to get the drops etc.already. While the eye dr at LASIKMD was very thorough, my overall feeling was stronger with TLC. In addition, TLC has newer technology, better for high correction (mine are -7 and -8) and other higher order aberations (although both firms have surgeons who seem to be both exceptionally well qualified). The final reason is that my own eye Dr is also part of the team and that gives me a great deal of peace going forward in the event of an enhancement (1 in 4 chance). It will be like a second opinion/advocate for me. Money aside, it was a difficult decision - quite a personal thing for sure, but my sister went with TLC 11 years ago and has never looked back. Over the next 30 years the difference in price will be pennies a month, not really a decision factor in the big picture! I have also found info that in addition to being really hydrated daily, Omega 3's help with dry eyes (salmon, walnuts, flax seed and even supplements) so in addition to drops there are indeed a few things I can do for dry eyes. Thanks for listening, Sue
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 17, 2010 @ 4:01 pm | delete
    It is a tough decision for sure. Congratulations on making it. I've been using Omega 3 supplements for just over three months and haven't really noticed a difference. I find I notice more of a difference with hydration. If I drink more water they feel less dry. Good luck with the surgery. Come back soon!
  • Jon Sep 9, 2010 @ 1:26 am | delete
    I had my LASIK surgery last Friday morning and I am early in the recovery process. From everything my doctor has said and from my research on the FDA website it seems like 6 months is the magic number. I have 20/20 vision in both eyes now, but the quality of my night vision is suspect. I have been in extended-wear contacts for the last 10 years, changing them out about every 30 days. The only reason I got the surgery was because the new insurance plan at work basically paid for it. Not the best reason since I didn't really mind wearing contacts. I must say that I am a little discouraged by the trouble with halos around lights at night. I'm scared that it might be a permanent annoyance. I wish doctors were required to show you exactly what halos look like in some sort of diagram because I really didn't understand just how annoying they would be when driving in a highly-lit environment at night.

    Also, make sure you know the difference between the newer wavefront LASIK technology and the traditional LASIK. Wavefront is supposed to decrease the rate of higher order aberrations (light halos). I was tricked into the older LASIK treatment because I was an insurance patient and they would have had to accept a lower payment (reasonable and customary) from the insurance company for the newer, more expensive procedure. To limit their losses they gave me the older LASIK procedure since it was cheaper, confusing me right before the surgery. Not a problem if you're dealing in cash because they love to take your money on the more expensive procedure. Really consider just how annoying your contacts are before you submit to this surgery. Glasses are a different story. I wore them for 2 months before the surgery to let my eyes return to normal after contacts and couldn't stand them at all.
  • JaguarJulie Sep 8, 2010 @ 1:41 pm | delete
    You know, I was on the waiting list to be accepted as a Lasik candidate quite a few years ago. And, for the doctor that does them here, I was the first of the eye candidates to have an OLD flap relifted for a second go at Lasik. He was concerned about epitheleal growth under the flap once it was relifted ... but I am here to attest that having Lasik twice on one eye does work and can be successful. Congrats to you for being so brave!
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 8, 2010 @ 7:58 pm | delete
    Yeah! That's actually good to know in case I ever have to go back. Things are good *fingers crossed*. Thanks for sharing your experience.
  • SquidooKimberly Sep 8, 2010 @ 12:53 pm | delete
    This is incredible. I've been researching Lasik for about three years but never found anything this informative. Thanks for putting this together!
  • BigGirlBlue Sep 8, 2010 @ 12:56 pm | delete
    You're welcome. I'm glad you found it useful.
  • _Joan_ Sep 4, 2010 @ 12:21 am | delete
    Back to bless this lens.
  • _Joan_ Sep 6, 2010 @ 4:31 pm | delete
    Just letting you know that your lens is now featured on my "SquidAngel At Your Service" lens.
  • resabi Sep 1, 2010 @ 3:26 pm | delete
    This lens is of great personal interest, as I wrestle with the question of whether or not to go this route. I've worn glasses since I was 8 (a LOOONG time ago) and my prescription is worse than yours was. I resist due to fear and laziness, mostly (and little because of expense...) I really appreciated your step-by-step chronicle and your candor about what to expect. If I get this done will reread this lens ahead of time and then refer back to it during recuperation. Blessed.~*~*~*
  • themust Aug 9, 2010 @ 9:11 am | delete
    Thank you so much for this! It was great to see a full description of the process and the recovery.
  • Christina Jul 13, 2010 @ 8:55 am | delete
    I am on day 6 and my vision is not perfect yet, I can see really well far away but close up and in certain lighting it is hazy, I have got myself in a panic..I have an appt in a few minutes so will see whats up but last appt they said I had swelling and "ripples" What have I done???

    Scared in Toronto
  • BigGirlBlue Jul 13, 2010 @ 12:58 pm | delete
    Hi Christina, sorry to hear about your ripples! But take a deep breath and focus on healing. The docs will probably get you on a longer eye drop regiment and I recommend drinking lots of water too to help keep your cells hydrated. I think one of the misconceptions going in is that we expect to be instantly healed afterward. It takes up to six months for the eyes to completely heal, in my case a bit longer. Despite the simplicity of the surgery it still is a major assault to our eyes. Hang in there! I know it's hard not to panic (been there) but just give yourself a little extra special treatment and follow your eye drop regiment religiously. Please stop by and let us know how you're doing.
  • thompson1 May 13, 2010 @ 12:20 pm | delete
    Hi,

    I also just read your lens. I had surgery almost 1 month ago....April17th at Lasik MD in Toronto. I've been having extremely dry eyes to the point where I've regretted my decision to go ahead with this. I keep being told that it will heal over time and I will admit that it is getting slightly better, even after putting in plugs last week. However, I'm interested in other people's experience as well. I tend to worry more than I should and unfortunately do 2 things:

    - read the horror stories on the internet of people with permanent dry eyes and then freak out
    - have friends that had lasik done who had know complications - they think I'm imagining things

    Overall, the jury is still out on my experience.
  • BigGirlBlue May 14, 2010 @ 7:30 pm | delete
    It's ok to worry, I mean, it's your eyes right. But your eyes are definitely still healing. It is a possibility that you may have to deal with dry eyes for another year but if you look at the big picture it's definitely something that you can work with. Keep up on the eye drops religiously during this important time.

    There are TONS of horror stories on the internet -- and lots of stuff way worse than dry eyes. But there also is for just about anything b/c lets face it there nothing out there that is risk free.

    You are not imagining things. Everyone is different. But do give it some more time, do keep your doctor(s) informed, and do make those eye drops a habit. And do enjoy your improved vision!

    Good luck (and please come back and tell us how it goes)!
  • stayathomegeek May 8, 2010 @ 9:01 am | delete
    You just made my day. I just found your lens and read the whole history. I had Lasik three weeks ago, (and created a lens). I hope to put in some updates over time on mine just as you did on yours. For the past few days I've had headaches and back soreness, as well as red eyes --sometimes one, sometimes the other. My right eye stings sometimes. I had it all checked out by the doc. He said the Lasik results are fine and that these things may or may not even be related to the Lasik. It's hard to figure out! Personally I think I'm suffering from eye strain. It makes sense to me that it would be a challenge for the brain to adapt to monovision. I learned from your lens to stay on top of it, keep using drops, visit the doc as needed, expect variations in vision and symptoms, and try to be patient.
  • thomps1 May 13, 2010 @ 12:29 pm | delete
    Hi,

    I'm having eye strain too, lots of headaches and severe dryness in one eye. I had lasik about one month ago and am now realizing I may have had dry eyes prior to surgery (was contact lens intolerant). Very nervous right now as I'm hoping my dryness won't be permanent. How are you feeling?
  • _Joan_ Apr 16, 2010 @ 8:08 am | delete
    Thank you so much for this! It was great to see a full description of the process and the recovery. Reading through your experience confirms my feelings that at this time in my life Lasik is not for me, but I'm glad to know that you're happy with your results.
  • Pastiche Mar 27, 2010 @ 9:14 am | delete
    I've considered this surgery as I have no better than 20/200 vision without correction but I think the recovery is more than I want to handle at this point in my life. I'll stick with my eyeglasses and occasional contacts ... but kudos to you for your bravery and for writing this excellent lens about your eye surgery.
  • flowergardener Feb 20, 2010 @ 12:18 am | delete
    Wow, what an ordeal. I've worn glasses for nearly 35 years :( I've thought about this surgery, but I'm still not brave enough. Thanks for writing and sharing everything about it!
  • Marie Feb 5, 2010 @ 1:25 pm | delete
    Excellent article! I am on the fence about having Lasik: I want to be free of glasses but am terrified of the procedure/recovery. Thank you so much for framing your experience in a realistic manner! I am so glad to have stumbled upon this article!
  • Sarah Jan 29, 2010 @ 9:19 am | delete
    Great read! I just got lasered at TLC a week ago and am interested to know how your astigmatism turned out. I believe your prescription had some?

    A week later, I still have mine and it's making me nervous since my profession is dependent on long hours reading and typing on the computer. I know it's early yet, though.

    Would love to hear if your eye doctor ever mentioned yours!

    Cheers!
  • BigGirlBlue Jan 29, 2010 @ 2:11 pm | delete
    Thanks Sarah! Congratulations on your surgery. As far as I know I don't have it. He hasn't mentioned it post surgery.

    Be sure to give your eyes a lot of breaks by looking away in the distance. Even if it's across the room or out a nearby window. It takes a good 6 months to heal so try not to worry too much but keep your doctor informed of everything.

    Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.
  • ArtByLinda Jan 5, 2010 @ 2:14 am | delete
    I had lasik's a few years ago and love it! I have gotten to an age where I now need reading glasses, but they are nothing compared to feeling blind without glasses. This is so great that you shared your experience with everyone. It can be frightening for those considering it, but it was worth it to me and sounds like it was for you too! My favorite, swimming and being able to see who is in the pool with me!
  • BigGirlBlue Jan 29, 2010 @ 2:08 pm | delete
    I agree, it can be so frightening. I mind has a way of doing that. It took me a number of years to build up the courage to go. But in the end, I'm glad I did.
  • newbie2010 Dec 16, 2009 @ 9:20 am | delete
    Hi, I just had lasik at TLC on Dec. 11. I had no discomfort whatsoever since the surgery. But my right eye is already regressing, very blurry already in that eye. I was -6.5 in left and -9 in right. I know I had a very high prescription but is this much regression normal for the very 1st week? I'm quite curios to know if anyone had this expereince?

    And thanks for posting your story, it was so informative!
  • BigGirlBlue Dec 17, 2009 @ 2:40 pm | delete
    I had a similar problem to begin with. My doc said the eye hasn't completely adjusted to the surgery and it was still trying to focus with the old prescription. Be patient. Your eyes are still healing. Don't do close up reading too much if you can avoid it at this stage -- keep a balance between your close up and far away use. Rest as much as you can and drink lots of water. :D
    It isn't a true regression until your eyes are completely healed -- about six months or so. Keep your doctor informed with what is happening.
  • mark Dec 10, 2009 @ 12:13 pm | delete
    Thanks for posting your story. I am actually going in for my custom lasik procedure with Dr. Nick tomorrow so it helps to hear different perspectives. One question I had about the dry eyes, did you ever suffer from that condition before? Just wondering if the surgery exasperated a pre-existing condition or if this was a new side effect.

    Thanks again for sharing!
  • BigGirlBlue Dec 10, 2009 @ 3:34 pm | delete
    You're welcome Mark. Good luck. It will be quick! I did not suffer from dry eyes before surgery... unless I wearing contact lenses which I think happens to anyone who wears them. So definitely a new side effect. But in the big picture, it really is a small one -- at least today. Early on, not so much. Best wishes for a speedy recovery and clear vision!
  • ChapelHillFiddler Dec 1, 2009 @ 7:28 am | delete
    I've also featured this on my fan-club thank-you lens so - thank you!
  • ChapelHillFiddler Nov 19, 2009 @ 10:16 pm | delete
    If I had the nerve to do this I would be incredibly grateful that you'd written up your experience. I'm featuring this lens in my second "favorite purple star lenses" lens which I'll publish tomorrow. Thanks!
  • BigGirlBlue Nov 19, 2009 @ 11:05 pm | delete
    Thanks! It took me many years to get up the nerve. LOL
  • Gothic-Contact-Lenses Sep 19, 2009 @ 8:51 pm | delete
    Thank you for a good resource.
  • BigGirlBlue Jul 18, 2009 @ 8:01 pm | in reply to Little Al | delete
    No, I don't know anyone who had PRK with him.
  • Little Al Jul 18, 2009 @ 5:39 pm | delete
    Do you know anyone have PRK with Dr. nick nianiaris?
  • BigGirlBlue Jul 12, 2009 @ 7:46 pm | in reply to little al | delete
    You will find a great difference in price between the two. Different locations would have different prices. As for going back to work I was told within a few days but I didn't feel adequate enough until after a week.
  • little al Jul 12, 2009 @ 1:40 pm | delete
    hi BigGirlBlue,

    thanks for sharing your eye surgery experience with us. I will have consultations with LASIK MD and TLC this month.
    could you please tell me the price of eye surgery you had at TLC?
    How long did you rest before returning to work?

    thanks
    Little Al
  • BigGirlBlue Jun 21, 2009 @ 7:24 pm | in reply to E | delete
    The eyes are still healing up to 6 months (sometimes longer) so you will probably continue to notice an improvement as the months go by. Be very thankful you are not suffering from dry eyes. :D
  • E Jun 20, 2009 @ 9:49 pm | delete
    I had lasik surgery about a month ago. My vision is almost 20/20 but still not quite there yet. My vision is not as crisp as it used to be... It seems a bit hazy and blurry, especially at night. No dry eyes here...Everything seems fine except the haze. What are the chances of my vision improving after 1 month of surgery?
  • BigGirlBlue Jun 14, 2009 @ 1:59 pm | in reply to swolleneyelid | delete
    As I said in my last entry: "I'm pleased and feeling more comfortable about the results. I can't say however that I would run out and go through the process again. But I'm happy that I had the guts to go through with it and that the majority of the healing stage has passed."
  • swolleneyelid Jun 14, 2009 @ 9:18 am | delete
    How are your eyes now after the surgery.
  • Wysiwigs May 19, 2009 @ 1:12 pm | delete
    I have wanted this surgery for years! I hate my glasses :o) Very well done lens with great information - thank you so much for sharing your experience.
  • BigGirlBlue May 16, 2009 @ 5:54 pm | in reply to EverythingMouse | delete
    There are definitely horror stories out there for sure but for every one there are hundreds of successes. :) I totally understand your reservations.
  • BigGirlBlue May 16, 2009 @ 5:52 pm | in reply to Chadrew | delete
    It took be years to work up to doing this surgery. Seriously. The idea of some with a blade or laser near my eyes always turned me off. But they have been doing this surgery for a number of years and the surgeon I had more practise than the doctors who remove body parts.
  • WhiteOak50 May 16, 2009 @ 10:02 am | delete
    Congrats on your purple star!
  • mukunda22 May 16, 2009 @ 9:49 am | delete
    This is a great lens for anyone considering this route--and congrats on the purple star!!
  • ottoblotto May 16, 2009 @ 2:00 am | delete
    Excellent and informative lens, thank you for sharing your experiences.
  • CoolFoto May 15, 2009 @ 8:08 pm | delete
    Interesting to hear about the healing process. I have the beginnings of cataracts so, if I live long enough I'll need that surgery. Congrats on Purple Star.
  • EverythingMouse May 15, 2009 @ 6:31 pm | delete
    I have thought about having lasik but I don't think I dare - I know someone who had a really bad experience with it. Congratulations on the purple star!
  • Chadrew May 15, 2009 @ 3:30 pm | delete
    Very interesting. Both of my eyes are -7 so I would give a lot to be able to see without glasses or contacts. But frankly, the idea of someone cutting my eyes as well as the long and hard recovery you described scares me.
  • ClassyGals May 15, 2009 @ 10:44 am | delete
    Thanks for all the information and step by step procedures of lasik surgery. This lens was more informative than any lasik pamphlet you could get from the doctor's office! Really well written. Congrats on the purple star, definitely deserving. Five stars!
  • Jimmie May 15, 2009 @ 10:32 am | delete
    Congrats on your purple star! I'm sure that this info is a valuable resource for those considering the procedure.
  • BigGirlBlue Oct 24, 2008 @ 12:03 pm | in reply to paperfacets | delete
    You're welcome! Come back and let us know the results. Best wishes
  • paperfacets Oct 24, 2008 @ 4:08 am | delete
    Thanks for all this info. I plan on having Lasik next year. 5*
  • mulberry Jul 15, 2008 @ 4:09 am | delete
    I'm sorry your healing process has been this troublesome. I hope that after the first month things go more smoothly. Love this lens, I doubt anyone undergoes this procedure without really researching the experience of others.
  • The_Homeopath Jul 12, 2008 @ 12:55 am | delete
    My husband was the proverbial "blind as a bat", if his glasses fell off the nightstand he'd need to wake me to help find them! He had lasik 9 years ago and has been 20/20 ever since. He sings the praises of Lasik to everyone who'll listen. Great lens!
  • Deborah Jul 11, 2008 @ 11:12 pm | delete
    Great lens! I had Lasik almost eight years ago and it truly changed my life. My vision was -9 and -8, which is legally blind without glasses (and about 20/800 and 20/900). Now, I think it's about 20/30 without glasses--perfectly okay, even for driving.

    My eyes are drier now, but that's a small price to pay for not having to buy yearly $300 plus eyeglasses, and being able to see things like the alarm clock, my kids, my face in the mirror!
  • Jul 8, 2008 @ 11:30 pm | delete
    Thanks for writing this, and keeping it updated (and noting the updates on Twitter!) I have been talking about some kind of surgery with my optometrist for a few years, as well. Seems I'm a candidate for the new cataract surgery that was just approved for healthy corneas as a treatment option for those whose eyesight is worse even than yours. Our histories are much the same, but I'm afraid I'm in the double digits for lens strength. Blah.... (I'm so glad they have thinner lenses for glasses now. I gladly pay for that, and the polished edges ~ at least they don't LOOK like "Coke bottles"!)

    Keep up the updates ~ I do look forward to more of your experiences. GREAT job!!
  • daoine Jul 8, 2008 @ 10:39 pm | delete
    Very well documented - I'm going to save this for my hubby to read, he's been trying to decide whether or not to have this done for years. It will help to have all the details spelled out.
  • chloecavanaugh Jul 7, 2008 @ 1:42 pm | delete
    Beautiful, and brave, two words to describe you. Thank you for sharing your progress with us. I pray for God's blessing throughout your recovery.
    *****
    ~Chloe
  • mulberry Jul 5, 2008 @ 5:42 pm | delete
    I'm excited for you, it's a great procedure. I had it about 10 years ago. With a couple of touch ups, but for me the results still didn't last. Most people I know had more lasting results. Oh well, it was fabulous for awhile for someone who had contacts or glasses since they were a child.
  • spirituality Jul 5, 2008 @ 12:30 pm | delete
    I think (would hope) the worry about bad doctors doing this stuff is not an issue if you have a trusted physician you've been with for years who tells you he's 'in with' a firm. It's his reputation on the line too!

    Anyhow- another great lens. :) Glad I don't have to decide about this sort of thing yet. Not wearing glasses, and not needing to.
  • RinchenChodron Jul 3, 2008 @ 5:39 pm | delete
    Very nice lens. Congratulations on becoming a Giant Squid!!!
  • BigGirlBlue Jun 21, 2008 @ 4:40 pm | delete
    Thank you for the encouragement I had a down day yesterday so you've made me feel better. :)
  • JaguarJulie Jun 21, 2008 @ 8:35 am | delete
    Hello my dear! I applaud you on your leap to try Lasik surgery and to write about it! Excellent idea for educating those considering this procedure. I personally had Lasik many years ago -- not sure of the year -- probably close to 10. I too wore contacts -- gas permeables for many years after giving up pop bottle glasses. OMG! It was and is wonderful to SEE without glasses -- it was a miracle, my experience that is. I did need a follow-up Lasik tweaking on my right eye several years later, but still seeing good today. Best of luck to you!

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BigGirlBlue

This was a big scary leap for me but I chose to jump. It is important to educate yourself on any procedure and make the best decision for you. Have you... more »

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