In 1986 I had surgery to correct a detached retina in my left eye. There was a high level of damage and resulted in removal of part of my iris and muscle damage. I currently have corrected 20/50 vision in that eye. The surgeon performed laser surgery on my right eye to prevent the smae thing from occuring in my right eye (there were small holes that the laser corrected). I am very nearsighted in my right eye and wear a gas permeable contact lens to achieve 20/20. My question is, would it be beneficial for me to consider lasik surgery in my right eye? I only use my right eye, and I'm concerned that I am putting too much strain on it. Can you give me any recommendations?

lisa,

your complicated history requires a complete consultation with both a refractive surgeon and a retinal surgeon to assess the status of your eyes at this time.

it is unlikely that you are straining the right eye by wearing a contact lens, but i can understand how you would want better natural vision. if your correction is mild and has an excellent chance of getting you good vision, then you have to decide if you are willing to take the risk that the eye may be slightly blurry or possibly worse after surgery. i can't tell you the odds without knowing your correction and actually seeing your eyes. you really need a refractive surgeon to discuss this with you.

normally we wouldn't consider operating on your one healthy eye, but if it seems VERY likely to have an excellent outcome, then with a lot of forethought and discussion, it is possible.

even after refractive surgery, although your vision is improved, your eye is still nearsighted- meaning larger than most, and predisposed to retinal detachments. you should make sure your eyes are examined once a year by a retinal doctor to detect any problem areas of the retina.

good luck
debra tennen md