The surgery wasn't done, as the flap was thin. I was given the contact lens, which caused me great discomfort. Dr. Mark Golden Nicollet Mall MPLS, MN said I would be able to see perfect in the morning. That was last thursday, it is now monday and it is not perfect yet. I go for my 1 week on thursday. Should I even consider another try in three months?? Also, does it mean I could have a button hole flap or worse??? How do you get a thin flap?
Thanks, Cathy MN

Cathy,

You've experienced a complication like this and you are thinking about going back for another round??

Please stop while you are ahead!!

Dear Cathy,

I am sorry to hear you are having problems after your aborted LASIK procedure last week.
A thin flap is usually not a problem. It is the result of a loss of suction during the pass of the keratome during your surgery. Usually, a minimum of 6-9 months is needed before attempting to recut a flap. Unfortunately, a button hole flap may be a significant complication which deserves close followup.It can lead to surface cells from the cornea growing under the flap. I would suggest getting a detailed explanation of your condition, its prognosis and plan for treatment from your surgeon. The surgeon should be the individual providing your postop care. If you are still not sure of the your status I would urge a second opinion.

Good luck.

Sincerely,

Neal A. Sher MD, FACS

Suite 750 Medical Arts Building
825 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402 USA

Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology
University of Minnesota Medical School
Attending Surgeon, Phillips Eye Institute
Minneapolis, Minnesota

Office: , toll free:
Fax
e-mail:
web site: www.drsher.com

Dear Dr. Sher,
My next appointment is Jan 12th 9:00A.M.. For the one month check-up. How can I ask the right questions so you and I have a clue to what is going on. My vision has changed, is what the eye Dr. Amy said at the week check up( it was 12 days because of the snow storm and Christmas). The surgeon has not seen me since the day of cutting. I was told he reviewed it the day after. But, it wasn't even Dr. Amy that looked at it that day. I'm just scared of a button hole, if I would do it again. I thank you for your concern and response. Thanks Cathy

Dear Cathy,

I would insist on seeing the surgeon, whoever that is. An optometrist or technician is not qualified to make these evaluations. I would ask the specific questions you asked me. If your clinic tells you that the surgeon is not available, I would go elsewhere and I would do it in a timely fashion.

Good luck,

Neal A. Sher MD, FACS

In my mind - this is inexcusable - how could the surgeon not look at your flap. You have stated that you are not seeing well - so there could be many things that are going on that could require fixing now by the surgeon - such as flap wrinkles.

Please see your surgeon

Bill Trattler, MD
Miami, FL

The surgeon, Dr. Golden checked my eye and said there is a scar from the abrasion, 2 degrees to thin flap. I am to put artifical tears in many times a hour, to prevent any dryness. Check up in 2 months.
They refunded all monies. They stated Dr. error for the refund.
The eye has improved since last month. Thank you for responding.
Thanks, Cathy