2 month post lasik, have been measured at approximately 20/30 in left eye, dr. has decided against 2nd flap relift to remove remaining wrinkes, the apparent cause of 20/30, as topography shows no problems. I have tried a variety of contacts to improve vision, the only success came from a hard contact, however, it was uncomfortable, any ideas on a soft contact solution, and if there anything new coming out which may help with surface irregularities, due to wrinkles? thanks!

my impression is that any striae that affect vision should be fixed immediately, as they will become permanent if not taken care of immediately. however, there is an interesting article in the journal of refractive surgery which says that some types of striae resolve on their own. go to http://jrs.slackinc.com/ and look for the article entitled "Folds and Striae in Laser in situ Keratomileusis Flaps." Then I would suggest you bring a copy of this article (print it in color!) and ask your doctor to identify which type of striae you have. If you are still worried, get a second opinion! I had the very same issue, and when I showed the article to my doctor, he said my striae were nothing like any of them, just fine, microscopic lines, and he encouraged me to get another opinion. The second surgeon (one of the premier surgeons in the area) said he'd be hard pressed to call the lines striae at all, and agreed with my doctor that they were not affecting my vision. I was much relieved, but would've been happy to have a refloat if necessary. Good luck!

The only treatment of striae at the present time is lifting of the flap. The decision to lift the flap must be made by your doctor, who should be able to tell whether the striae are affecting your vision

Best of luck

Bill Trattler, MD
Miami,FL