Is Laser Eye Surgery Right for My Allergic Conjunctivitis and High Myopia?

Q: Is Laser Eye Surgery Right for My Allergic Conjunctivitis and High Myopia?

Hello： Allergic conjunctivitis can be managed with eye drops. <br>Dry eye syndrome may worsen for 3 to 6 months after refractive surgery, and it typically takes about six months to return to the pre-operative condition. <br>If surgery is performed, continuous application of artif

Am I a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery?

Hello Dr.
Ke: My left eye has been uncomfortable for a long time (about 1.5 to 2 years).
I always thought it was dry eye syndrome because a previous examination indicated that I had dry eyes.
The doctor advised me to stop wearing contact lenses and consider laser surgery.
Recently, I had another examination with a different doctor, who diagnosed me with allergic conjunctivitis (and confirmed that I do not have dry eye syndrome).
Additionally, I am highly myopic (with a prescription of -6.00 diopters), and there are some minor tears around my retina (but the doctor mentioned that surgery could improve this).
He also warned that this could potentially lead to retinal detachment, which is detrimental to my eye health.
Given my situation, do you think I am a suitable candidate for laser surgery?

Jessie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/29

Dr. Ke Meilan reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Allergic conjunctivitis can be managed with eye drops.
Dry eye syndrome may worsen for 3 to 6 months after refractive surgery, and it typically takes about six months to return to the pre-operative condition.
If surgery is performed, continuous application of artificial tears for moisture is necessary.
Retinal tears must be treated with laser photocoagulation to prevent retinal detachment.
The extent of the tear will determine whether refractive surgery is appropriate.
Sincerely, Dr.
Mei-Lan Ke, Ophthalmology Department.

Reply Date: 2004/12/29

More Info

When considering laser eye surgery, particularly for someone with allergic conjunctivitis and high myopia, there are several important factors to keep in mind. Your situation involves a combination of eye conditions that could influence the safety and effectiveness of the procedure.

Firstly, allergic conjunctivitis is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva due to allergens. Symptoms often include redness, itching, and tearing. While this condition can be uncomfortable, it does not inherently disqualify you from laser eye surgery. However, it is crucial to manage the allergic conjunctivitis effectively before undergoing any surgical procedure. This may involve the use of antihistamines or anti-inflammatory eye drops to ensure that your eyes are in the best possible condition for surgery.

On the other hand, your high myopia (600 degrees) and the presence of retinal tears are more significant concerns. High myopia is associated with an increased risk of retinal complications, including retinal detachment, especially if there are existing tears or weaknesses in the retina. Laser eye surgery, such as LASIK or PRK, reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors, but it does not address underlying retinal issues. In fact, the surgical process can sometimes exacerbate existing retinal problems or create new ones, particularly in patients with high myopia.

Given your history of retinal tears, it is essential to approach the idea of laser surgery with caution. Most ophthalmologists would recommend a thorough evaluation of the retina by a retinal specialist before considering any refractive surgery. If there are concerns about the integrity of the retina, it may be advisable to prioritize monitoring and potentially treating the retinal issues before addressing refractive errors through surgery.

Moreover, it's important to note that laser eye surgery does not prevent the progression of myopia or the development of age-related conditions such as presbyopia, which typically begins in the early to mid-40s. Therefore, even if laser surgery successfully corrects your current refractive error, you may still need glasses for reading or other close-up tasks in the future.

In summary, while laser eye surgery could potentially correct your myopia, the presence of allergic conjunctivitis and, more critically, the retinal concerns complicate the decision. It is essential to consult with both a refractive surgeon and a retinal specialist to evaluate the risks and benefits thoroughly. They can provide a comprehensive assessment of your eye health and help you make an informed decision about the best course of action for your vision needs. In the meantime, managing your allergic conjunctivitis and monitoring your retinal health should be your primary focus.

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