Overcorrection Update - Question about New Prescription

[overcorrectedjw]

I'm a 47-year-old male who underwent Custom IntraLasik 3 weeks ago. My uncorrected vision prior to the surgery was Right -775 SPH, -150 CYL, 20 AXIS; Left -825 SPH, -125 CYL, 175 AXIS. A few days after the surgery, I was told that I was overcorrected (+1.0) in both eyes. After 1-1/2 weeks, I was told the overcorrection had worsened (+2.0) in both eyes. Since then, I've noticed significant improvement in my vision, both near and far (especially in recent days). Today, a surgeon in the practice gave me a presciption for temporary glasses. He indicated that he adjusted it slightly for some expected regression. The new numbers are Right +0.75 SPH, -0.50 CYL, 10 AXIS; Left +1.00 SPH, -0.50 CYL, 180 AXIS. I know from my vision that it's heading in the right direction. The surgeon said to expect further regression. I'm hoping that someone can help me interpret my new prescription in order to assess what the Lasik procedure has accomplished. Also, at 3 weeks out, I'm wondering how much further regression I can expect. I'm hoping to avoid the need for enhancement surgery. Thanks for your help. :?:

[Steven Safran MD]

Well, it's pretty clear from the numbers what has been achieved. You went from about -8.0 with about -1.25 of cyl in each eye to about +1.0 with about 0.5 of cyl in each eye which is a large correction. If you you were 37 you'd be 20/20 and would not notice this slight overcorrection but at 47 your ability to compensate for it is limited. I'd wait at least 3 months and closer to 6 to see if there is any further regression and enhance only if you are unhappy with the outcome. You may regress a bit but to be honest you may not....the only answer that matters will come over the next few months. It is good of course that the ability to enhance is there if you need it. The reason we don't enhance this early is because changes are still ocurring and they are unpredictable. If you regress another 1/2 diopter (which I think is very possible ) I think you'll be very happy without enhancement.

[overcorrectedjw]

Dr. Safran,

Thanks so much. Comments like yours take some of the mystery out what can be a very confusing situation.