I am considering lasik and have been for years but after two eye evaluations I would like more info. My situation is
myopia in both eyes (L -2.50 R -3.0) but my pupils are 7mm in low light conditions. This was the exact amount
from both offices I visited.(they were consistant)
After conversations with both optometrists I was informed that I might have a glare or halo effect at night due to
the maximum treatable size would be 6.5mm on a broadbeam laser (visex star 2). Both doctors said it wouldn't
be that big of a deal because my prescription was "low" and after healing, I wouldn't even notice "it".
When I first visited these Dr.s I told both that I play ball at night (softball / football) and could not have glares or
starbursts. The one optometrist replied that my presription was again low and I would probably only have glare or
halo effect while I was healing (3-6months) and I wouldn't notice anything I hadn't had before.
The other Dr. suggested I be treated with the newer "Ladar laser" because it had a larger working area ( up to
8mm+ ). He seemed to think since my concern for glare/halo was important, he would opt for the Ladar laser.I
have considered asking other patients (with near same prescription) how they've made out. Trouble is finding
someone with the same prescription while fitting my lifestyle !
Based on info I've provided could you please provide me with any knowledge / info about what would be better;
broadbeam, or Ladar small tracking laser? What is the max. treatable zone allowed by both?
I have contacted one company for specifications on their equipment and will be contacting others. While doing so
I read about new lasers to come such as custom(waveform) lasers.
This whole thing is consuming me like nothing before. I was scheduled for a treatment this week (Visx S2 broad
beam) but have since cancelled. I can't believe others haven't had these same concerns and wouldn't mind additional info.

Thanks Lou

Dude, you have a real problem decision here.

Two doctors have told you the same thing. However, surgery is like baseball / football. YOU (or the surgeon) is responsible only for the effort; God is responsible for the outcome. How many upsets (games) have you seen in your life?

Do you wear contacts? If so, you are familiar with the slight glow or bluriness around lights. That's about what I see, and I have 8.0mm pupils. But hey, that's me. And I'm on only my 8th day. It's supposed to get better!

Nothing in medicine is exact, and you need to read, read, read all the faqs and all the outcomes. This site is great; it carries good news and bad news. It all comes down to: there's a risk, and you have to decide to accept it.

My $.02

In my experience, I have performed LASIK on many patients with similar refractions and pupil sizes, and they have all done well without night time problems. I use the VISX laser 6.5 mm treatment zones.
If one of my patients did have night time problems, then they could potentially be placed on one of two medications to mildly constrict the pupil at night. Fortunately, this has not been necessary in patients with similar examinations as yours.
Ladarvision is of course another option. The treatment zones can be expanded to the size of the pupil from what I have been told.
Your best bet is to start visiting the actuall LASIK surgeons, and talk with them. They would have lots of experience with patients who have similar situations as yours.

best of luck

Bill Trattler, MD
Miami, FL

Jon and Dr.Trattler ,

Thank you both for responding.
I've been checking the board every day hoping for insight.
Jon , I hope things go well for you. Please keep posting and let me know how you progress. As you realize, eyesight is a priceless gift. I don't want to make an un-informed decision.

Thans again , Lou