![]()
The limitations of
laser eye surgery have been outlined by consultant ophthalmic surgeon Professor Charles Clark.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, the surgeon said that the technique is not a panacea for eye ailments and is only effective at combating certain conditions.
He said that it is important for people considering the procedure to realise that it will not correct their vision permanently and, as they age, they will more than likely have to take to wearing glasses or contact lenses again.
Professor Clark also highlighted the fact that eye laser surgery cannot be used to treat squints, which are caused by an imbalance of eye muscles. However, it can be used in some cases to treat astigmatism – which is the result of the cornea being or becoming misshapen – he added.
He said that complications from
laser eye surgery arise in about five per cent of cases and can include dry eyes or hazy vision – known as the halo effect, which could be an irreversible consequence of
laser eye surgery in some patients.
Those considering the procedure were also made aware of the fact that
laser eye surgery is generally not available on the NHS and patients will have to go private if they are to benefit from it. Professor Clark noted that a list of qualified surgeons is available from the Royal College of Ophthalmology.
But those deciding whether to subject themselves to
laser eye surgery should also consider the alternatives, such as I-Go's Ortho K lenses.
Ortho K contacts offer a non-surgical treatment that does away with the need of short-sighted patients to wear daily contact lenses or glasses.
In this respect Orthokeratology lenses have a similar effect to
laser eye surgery, but have none of the complication risks, which can be permanent.
They are simply worn during the night, while the person is asleep and they gently reshape the eye so the wearer benefits from clear vision throughout the day.
