Will I really be able to see clearly after laser surgery?

People often ask me "Will I really be able to see clearly after laser surgery?" This sounds like a very simple question, yet before the operation, I spend about an hour explaining the laser procedure to my patients. There are risks, but there are almost never serious complications. About 10% to 15% of my patients opt to come back about three months after the operation to "retouch" or "enhance" the procedure making their vision even more clear. After surgery, many patients have 20/20 vision. Almost all (98% to 99%) have at least 20/40 vision, which allows them to drive without corrective lenses, and just about everybody is thrilled with their vision after surgery.

Some people ask me " Why should I come in to have my eyes examined when I see well now? The short answer is Glaucoma. Glaucoma strikes without warning, affecting the person's peripheral vision. The person has no symptoms in the early stages. I treat it by prescribing eye drops. This simple remedy prevents the patient from losing more and more peripheral vision. Unfortunately, if left untreated, glaucoma causes blindness.

Matthew L. Hecht, M.D.
Diplomate, American Board of Ophthalmology
Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group, Inc.