I had ASA approx. 11 weeks ago. Pre-op vision was about -9.00. Distance vision has improved dramatically but still probably 20/40 (not sure). I have ghosting at almost all distances, and need glasses for everything within about 10 feet. I'm 47 years old, and pre-op I had typical reading vision challenges and no expectation of improvement on that. Have had 5 post-op checkups with generally good feedback except that I'm overcorrected. There has been very little change in the past 4-5 weeks. Doctor said I need to wait minimum 3 months before considering enhancement and my vision could continue changing/improving for up to 6 months. Questions: any non-standard risks associated with doing LASIK for enhancement after initial ASA? Is another ASA a possibility or would that be recommended? I chose it the first time for reasons of long-term health of my eyes. Is 3 months long enough to wait for stability/changes if it appears nothing has changed in 4-5 weeks? Any issue with age (47)? What % of LASIK or ASA patients later require enhancement? The overcorrection is getting tiresome and I've just about concluded that I'll need an enhancement. I'm doing some research to confirm what my doctor is telling me, and prepare myself for the possibility of an enhancement. I'm close to the point of insisting on it due to impatience with my remaining vision problems but want all the facts before doing so. Thanks for any input.

What is "ASA"?

Advanced surface ablationn is another term for modern day laser surgery on the surface of the eye. ASA can be PRK, LASEK or Epi-LASIK.
In my experience...it can take up to 3 to 6 months before one gets to a final stable refractive error after surface ablation. If you are over or under corrected, you should talk with your doctor and consider temporary glasses to get you through. As well, your doctor should address any underlying dry eye, etc.
Also...if you do need an enhancement..more surface ablation is the better way to go. Creating a flap at this point is typically not worth it (at least in my book). Instead, a surface ablation enhancement, if needed, can effectively address your residual refractive error. Remember - all procedures, including enhancements, have risks - so please discuss everything with your own doctor

William Trattler, MD
Miami, FL