I have gone on two consults for lasik surgery. I have myopia and moderate astigmatism. One place told me I needed 2 procedures, 1 with the VISX and then 1 with the Nidek. They said I would actually go from one room to another and then back for the total surgery. The other place only mentioned Nidek and 1 procedure. They said the correction for astigmitism was just different software, same laser. Is there any benefit or validity in having two different lasers for correction? Is there any true validity in charging more money for astigmitism? If so, what is the real reason? Thank you so much for your response.

Hello all

I am planning to do a surgery with the machine:
Baush & Lomb 217z
I know that this technology is a bit old.

- What can you tell me about its technical capabilities or its disabilities?
- How fast is it?
- Is this machine is approved with the FDA?
- What is the risks doing the operation with that machine which is not in the top of the technology.
- would you suggest me to make the operation on it?

Thanks in advance
Tal

Tal:

Who said the Baucsch and Lomb 217 is old technology? Nothing could be further from the truth. It is the latest generation of LASIK laser which uses a flying spot scanner. And it has an impressive record.

I chose the B&L 217a because of its outstanding record and since it is a preferred laser for treatment of eyes with large pupils which I have (7.5mm). I have no regrets; I would chose it again.

One item worth mentioning is that, since this laser treats a larger zone, it removes more eye tissue. If you have thin corneas, this may be undesirable. Also, if you have small pupils, the larger treatment zone (and additional tissue removal) may not be necessary. There is a balancing act between preserving cornea thickness and getting a large enough treatment zone to ensure that you do not have nighttime glare, halo and starburst problems. You need to talk to your doctor to determine what is best for you. Personally, I recommend that you get your pupil size checked, double checked and triple checked to ensure that you get enough coverage. This is where a second opinion is good.

The B&L Technolas 217a is approved by the FDA. The 217z may be a foreign model. Where are you having your LASIK procedure performed?

For more information on the laser and its FDA approval, see:
http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/lasik/lasers.htm