I had intralasik on 5/20/04. On 5/28/04, my doc refloated both of my flaps to get out "subtle" microstria that were affecting my vision - about 20/40 blurry vision in both eyes. On 5/30/04, the optometrist checked my eyes and said the microstria had reappeared. My eyes are a little better - about 20/30 in both and blurry. The optometrist indicated that the microstria would likely work themselves out and my vision would gradually get better each week. I have a night-time ointment to use and, if my vision gets worse, soft contacts to put in. From what I am reading on this site, microstria don't "work themselves out." I go back into the doc this week. What questions should I ask? Also, I am looking for a specialist in microstria that I can see - I don't care where - I will travel. Thank you.

We have a detailed article on striae at http://www.complicatedeyes.org/striae.htm. Microstriae, also called Bowman's Crinkles, tend to resolve with healing more than with treatment, although some treatment techniques are helpful.

Glenn Hagele
Council for Refractive Surgery Quality Assurance
http://www.USAeyes.org
http://www.ComplicatedEyes.org

I am not a doctor.

In general - microstriae do not work themselves out. If the microstriae reappear after an initial attempt at removal - then typically a second procedure is performed - such as a repeat of the first method to remove the striae - or a more definitive technique called flap suturing.
You should try to see your surgeon ASAP - because striae have memory - and the sooner they are fixed - the better.

For second opinions in Denver, I can recommend 2 knowledgeable surgeons:

Lance Forstot, MD
Larry Spivack, MD

Best of luck

Bill Trattler, MD
Miami, FL