I have several friends who have undergone lasik and are very pleased with their results. In fact, many said it is the best decision they ever made. But, after reading this bulletin board you would believe there has never been a successful lasik operation performed. I understand that there is a risk associated with any operation, but I find it hard to believe that 95% of lasik procedures have a bad outcome. I assume that people with bad outcomes are just more likely to post about it, while those who had a successful outcome are out enjoying their new vision. Can one of the doctors here please provide some information about what percentage of their customers are happy with their results, and what percent experience problems?

Some will disagree with me, but I read around and get a figure that 90% are satisfied with their lasik procedure. It is a good thing you are informed. Whats your pescription, why do you want lasik and whats your exceptions? Depending on what you say, your chances could be 5% or 99% it depends on the indivdual.

I am very happy with my outcome and so is everyone else I know that had it done. My procedure was done on 1/12/06 and although your vision will be better some days than others in the beginning, that will even out as the healing process goes along. Like you I was very apprehensive and researched it as much as I possibly could for years before I had it done. I was -6.0 and -5.25. I am 54 yrs old, need the readers, but couldn't be happier. Please make sure you have a great surgeon who you trust, get all the tests required to make sure you are a good candidate and then decide. I know how you are feeling, these are your EYES for goodness sakes! I know there are people who have had not so good outcomes, but I thankfully am very pleased. Good luck with your decision.

I noticed the same thing you did Brian...but keep in mind that most people who have no problems at all probably won't be posting on the internet...I think the internet selects out people with problems who need answers...so the percentage of people on the boards with problems will be higher.

If this helps, I knew 7 people personally who had Lasik, and all were thrilled with the results. I haven't had any major problems - my only issues have been regression after the first procedure (for which I just had an enhancement 3 days ago) and dry eye (which has been manageable with artificial tear drops and a gel at bedtime before the enhancement - Pre-enhancement [~4mo. after the original procedure], I was using artificial tears once per hour and a tear gel at bedime...prior to winter, I was only using drops every 2 hours). Despite the dry eye and regression, I am thrilled that I had Lasik, as my new sharper vision is absolutely fantastic, and I am confident that my need for artificial tears will decrease and eventually disappear with time.
That being said, select your surgeon carefully, and do LOTS of reading about the procedure...definitely best to go into this fully informed. Good luck with your decision!