I have a LASIK-induced central island in one eye and am 3 months post-LASIK. It's slowly getting smaller so hopefully it will resolve. It seems no has a straight answer for the treatment. 1/2 of the doctors I've heard from say central islands almost always resolve on their own while the other 1/2 say they almost never resolve on their own. What's the statistical truth? Also, can they be successfully treated by enhancement and how? If so, is this by a small number of LASIK doctors? I love to find out who's the best at treating them. Thanks.

In my experience, central islands improve with the passage of time. Some do not. So, I'd say both sets of doctors are right to a certain degree. Topographically assisted LASIK should be available by the end of the year (hopefully) and should help patients like yourself. Good luck.

i agree that some islands resolve and others do not, which is why we wait and observe.

however, any lasik surgeon can correct an island by adjusting the size of the laser beam to the size of the island and flattening just that small area. it is a fairly common form of enhancment, bu tif your doctor has not done this before, ask for a referral to one who has.

debra tennen, md

Thank you, Dr. Tennen, for the words of encouragement. It is disheartening to hear someone say (whether they know what they're talking about or not), at this time, central islands can't be successfully treated. Two quick questions: Is it easier to treat the central island if it is not directly in the center of the eye (mine is outside of center - when I squint slightly the ghosting disappears)? Also, is it easier to treat the island if you have some prescription (myopia) left? Thank you very much.
Jay

i don't think it's any easier to treat islands based on their location, but it is a little safer when there is some myopia left. this is because any time you flatten the cornea, you run the risk of flattening too much and inducing farsightedness. if there is some myopia remaining, at least you have "wiggle room" before you cause farsightedness.

good luck

debra tennen, md