Should You Consider a Second Laser Surgery After Myopia Correction?

Q: Should You Consider a Second Laser Surgery After Myopia Correction?

Hello, Nier： Whether you are satisfied or not is something you need to ask yourself. <br>If you feel it's acceptable, then there's no need for further action. <br>However, if you find it unclear or vague, a second revision can be done. <br>The physician should evaluate your condi

Is a second corrective surgery necessary after laser surgery for myopia?

Hello, I am currently abroad and have undergone VisuMAX laser surgery for my myopia correction.
Before the surgery, my vision was approximately -7 to -8 diopters (with my left eye being worse).
During the pre-operative examination, a small hole was found in the retina of my right eye, which had already been treated with laser before proceeding with the myopia laser surgery.
Now, three months post-operation, I am slightly dissatisfied with my current vision.
Upon examination, it was found that I have 50 degrees of astigmatism in both eyes.
The doctor mentioned that it depends on my personal comfort level; if I can accept my current vision, then a second surgery is not necessary.
However, if I am not satisfied, I can return for a second procedure.
Due to language barriers abroad, I am unclear whether it truly is just a matter of my satisfaction.
If I decide to pursue a second surgery due to dissatisfaction, what potential risks should I be aware of? Is there a possibility of overcorrection leading to hyperopia, or would a second surgery cause additional harm (the doctor said it would not)? I believe my corneal thickness is sufficient, which is why I was given the option to choose whether to proceed with a second surgery.
I would like to hear your opinion and any risks I should further evaluate or consider.
Thank you!

Ni Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/19

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Nier: Whether you are satisfied or not is something you need to ask yourself.
If you feel it's acceptable, then there's no need for further action.
However, if you find it unclear or vague, a second revision can be done.
The physician should evaluate your condition before proceeding, so the risks should have already been assessed.
Ultimately, it depends on your opinion.
Having only 50 degrees of astigmatism in both eyes is quite minimal; any further procedure may just be a refinement.
Whether it will be clearer can only be determined after the procedure is completed.
The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2021/03/19

More Info

When considering a second laser surgery after myopia correction, there are several factors to weigh carefully. First and foremost, it is essential to understand that the decision to undergo additional surgery should be based on a combination of your personal satisfaction with your current vision and the professional advice of your ophthalmologist.

Understanding Your Current Situation
You mentioned that you had VisuMAX laser surgery for myopia correction, and while your vision has improved, you are experiencing some residual astigmatism of 50 degrees in both eyes. This is not uncommon, as many patients may still have some degree of refractive error after the initial procedure. The key question posed by your doctor is whether you can accept your current vision or if you feel that further correction is necessary.

Factors to Consider
1. Visual Satisfaction: The most critical aspect is your satisfaction with your vision. If you feel that your quality of life is significantly affected by the residual astigmatism, it may be worth considering a second procedure. However, if you can adapt to your current vision and it does not impede your daily activities, you might opt to forgo additional surgery.

2. Risks of Second Surgery: Every surgical procedure carries inherent risks. In the case of a second laser surgery, potential risks include:
- Overcorrection: This can lead to hyperopia (farsightedness), where you may find it difficult to see objects up close.

- Under-correction: If the second surgery does not adequately address the residual astigmatism, you may still require corrective lenses.

- Corneal Complications: Repeated surgeries can increase the risk of corneal thinning or other complications, particularly if the corneal thickness is borderline.

- Infection or Inflammation: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection or inflammation, which can affect healing and visual outcomes.

3. Corneal Thickness: You mentioned that your corneal thickness is sufficient, which is a positive factor. Adequate corneal thickness is crucial for the safety of laser procedures, as it helps prevent complications such as ectasia (a condition where the cornea becomes progressively thinner and bulges outward).

4. Consultation with Your Surgeon: Given the language barrier you mentioned, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or consult with a surgeon who can communicate effectively in your preferred language. This can help ensure that you fully understand the risks and benefits of a second procedure.

5. Post-Operative Expectations: If you decide to proceed with a second surgery, it is essential to have realistic expectations. While many patients achieve satisfactory results, others may still experience some degree of refractive error. Discussing these expectations with your surgeon can help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion
In summary, the decision to undergo a second laser surgery after myopia correction should be based on your visual satisfaction, the potential risks involved, and a thorough discussion with your ophthalmologist. If you are leaning towards a second procedure, ensure that you are well-informed about the possible outcomes and that your surgeon has assessed your corneal thickness and overall eye health. Ultimately, your comfort with your vision and the risks you are willing to take will guide your decision.

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