It is clearly stated in Bausch & Lomb literature on the Technolas 217A laser that it is "for the correction of -1.00 to -7.00 diopters of nearsightedness..." Does this mean that it cannot correct for prescriptions higher than that?

I ask because I am -7.5 in my left and -8.5 in my right eye. I am trying to decide between the LADAR and Technolas lasers, the LADAR price being much more expensive than the Technolas. Could I expect similar results from the two or would the LADAR give me much better results (because it is approved for -1 to -9 diopters)?

I use the Visx and the ladar. I don't understand
why you are being charged more for the ladar. I
think some of the discount centers are using a
bait and switch technique. We tend to be slightly
more costly than some of the discount centers but
we charge the same depending on which laser is
indicated. You should not have to choose based on
cost. You should choose based on what is
appropriate. If you would like another opinion I
will see you at no charge.
Leonard Friedman MD Washington DC....

I would have to agree with Dr. Friedman. The surgeon should carefully examine your eyes and determine whether one laser or the other is better for your situation. This is not a decision for the patient - and to make you pick one laser because it is cheeper is ridiculous and potentially dangerous.
I say dangerous because the Technolas removes more of the cornea compared to the VISX or Autonomous lasers when treating a given degree of myopia. I am not an expert on the Technolas, but I would think that trying to treat your level of myopia with the Technoalas would be dangerous - in that the cornea could end up too thin.
Again - you should be seeing a doctor who carefully examines your eyes and decides which laser is best for you. You have just one set of eyes.

Best of luck

Bill Trattler, MD
Miami, FL