Common Concerns About Contact Lenses and Laser Eye Surgery

Questions about contact lenses?

I recently started wearing contact lenses, and besides feeling like there's something small in my eye, which the optician said is normal at first, I have some questions.
Since I have soft lenses, I had to spend some time checking which side is which.
If I accidentally put the lens on the wrong way, will I be able to see? Will it be like not wearing glasses at all, or will it be like wearing glasses but just a bit blurry?
Also, my right eye has a prescription of -4.75 diopters, and my left eye has -5.00 diopters, with only the left eye having a glare of +1.00.
Am I a candidate for laser vision correction? Are there any specific conditions or diseases that would prevent someone from undergoing this procedure? What are the potential side effects after the surgery? Thank you.

Zhan Bai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/26

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology

Wearing contact lenses inside out will still provide clear vision, but they may feel less comfortable and can often pop out with a blink, which indicates they are reversed.
Aside from that, there are typically no adverse effects.
Your degree of myopia is not too severe, so undergoing laser surgery for myopia should not pose any issues.
However, there are certain individuals who are not suitable candidates for the surgery: those with severe dry eye syndrome, keratoconus, high myopia of 1500 degrees or more, corneal diseases, and some other rare eye conditions.
Aside from these, most people can undergo the procedure.

Reply Date: 2005/02/26

More Info

When it comes to the common concerns about contact lenses and laser eye surgery, it's essential to address several key points regarding safety, comfort, and potential complications.
Firstly, wearing contact lenses, especially soft lenses, can indeed feel strange at first. Many new users report a sensation of having something in their eyes, which is typically normal as your eyes adjust to the presence of the lenses. If you accidentally put a lens in the wrong way, you may experience discomfort, but it is unlikely to cause significant harm. You might see a blurred image, but it won't be as clear as when the lens is correctly positioned. It's crucial to ensure that you are handling your lenses properly to avoid any complications, such as irritation or infection.

Regarding your vision correction options, you mentioned having myopia (nearsightedness) with a prescription of -4.75 in your right eye and -5.00 in your left eye, along with some flashes of light in your left eye. Laser eye surgery, such as LASIK or SMILE, can be an effective solution for correcting myopia. However, certain conditions may disqualify you from being a candidate for these procedures. These include:
1. Unstable Vision: If your prescription has changed significantly in the past year, it may be advisable to wait until your vision stabilizes.

2. Corneal Thickness: A thorough examination will determine if your corneas are thick enough to safely undergo laser surgery.

3. Eye Diseases: Conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, or severe dry eye syndrome can complicate surgery and may require treatment before considering laser options.

4. Autoimmune Disorders: Certain autoimmune diseases can affect healing and may pose risks during and after surgery.

As for potential side effects or complications from laser eye surgery, while many patients achieve excellent results, some may experience temporary issues such as dry eyes, glare, halos around lights, or fluctuating vision. These symptoms often improve over time, but in rare cases, they can persist. More severe complications, such as infection or vision loss, are very uncommon but can occur.

It's also worth noting that if you have flashes of light in your vision, it is essential to consult with an eye care professional. Flashes can indicate issues with the retina, such as retinal detachment, which requires immediate attention.

In conclusion, if you are considering laser eye surgery, it is crucial to have a comprehensive evaluation by an ophthalmologist who specializes in refractive surgery. They will assess your eye health, discuss your specific concerns, and help you understand the risks and benefits associated with the procedure. Additionally, if you continue to experience discomfort with contact lenses or have concerns about your vision, do not hesitate to reach out to your eye care provider for personalized advice and support.

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