Laser Eye Surgery Discussion Thread

[Spikey]

Hi Guys,

Can anyone help me with Laser Eye Surgery companies?

Has anyone used them?

Any recommended companies?

Best for price?

Is there a thread already on MSE (couldn't find one when I searched).

etc etc etc .

Thanx in advance y'all.

Spikey

[nearlyrich]

See thread on I wanna board..............


I had laser correction in 1994 so 10 years of perfect sight, no costs of contact lenses & solutions,glasses. Great money saving here.

I haven't experienced any problems at all.

I used Ultralase in Leeds and their follow up care was great and included in the price.
www.ultralase.co.uk

[Spikey]

Cheers, I will have a look.

Spikey

[Spikey]

Hi nearlyrich,

Can you give me the link to the page?

Cheers

Spikey

[nearlyrich]

http://forum.moneysavingexpert.com/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.cgi?board=Wanna;action=display;num=1086641882



Sorry I should have done that on original mail.

;)

[Spikey]

Thank you so much nearlyrich, your input is greatly appreciated.

Cheers

Spikey

Your local library will get you independant information about this surgery you need to be well informed before making any decisions

[nearlyrich]

If anyone is still interested in this thread, I went for a free Tesco Clubcard Eye test on Tuesday and my vision is still perfect after 10 years, I was really pleased about that!! ;D

[EvilMonkey]

Looking through the posts for cheap contact lenses and spec for my wife (who's run out of lenses and the specs are on their last legs) I've also come across sites for laser eye surgery. As soon as I started looking into it, a couple of colleagues chipped in that they'd had it and my wife got quite excited by the idea.

2 places have it interest free and for £1200 for both eyes:-

http://www.optimax.co.uk
&
http://www.eyeclinicdirect.com/ECDirect/MainSite/about/New_Welcome_Welcome.asp

The wifes booked in for a pre op exam now, so this posts for a couple of things.

Any experiences? (good or bad, although good would be less scarey!)

Let others know that there might be a third way for them.... (not for me as my eyes are still changing and your prescription needs to be stable...)

[Squidgy]

Hi Evilmonkey

I looked in to it for myself the last time I was feeling particularly brave (not very often) :-[

I does work out cheaper I agree, however,

There's no guarantee that it will improve your sight. I've heard many tales of people whose eyes are now worse than before.

If anything goes wrong, your stuck as it's non reversible.

Also I've heard that you can only have one eye done at a time.

Unfortunatly, what really put me off was the fact that they do it while you're concious and you have to look at the laser.

I know you only asked for good things, but I'm afraid I can't think of any. :-/

[dolphinl]

I have seen the eye laser surgery being done on the 'extreme makeover' on living tv which was based in the US, but now they are doing people in the UK.

You can have both eyes done at the same time and there are different types of surgery that you can do. Speak to your gp or opticians to find out if they have any knowledge on the best thing to do.

I am considering it myself, but waiting to save up the money first - hope all goes well with you wife.

[little_lil]

havent had mine done but discussed with optician and she actually recommended Boots, so they may be worth a look.

[abomb1969]

Dry eyes can be a problem with the surgery.

http://www.lasik-eyes.co.uk/ useful for info.

I have a friend who swears by it and is over the moon though.

[Chuffy]

Boots no longer perform Laser Eye Surgery (LES) due to their machines having calibration problems ???

I had my eyes done at Optimax in Leeds - both at the same time.

If you go to the clinics during an 'open week', they give you discount vouchers. I got one for £200.
At the time (June 04) the cost of the surgery was £495 per eye plus the £60 consultation fee.

Total cost £1050
Total savings £200

However I am a member of Westfield Health Scheme and I contacted them and as long as the surgeon is a member of the Royal Institute of Surgeons, you can claim claim money back upto the value of £290 (on the scheme I am in).

But wait, it gets better - they also advised me that my wife could claim her consultancy fees back as well.

So the maths goes like this:
£495 + £495 +£60 - £200 - £290 - £290 = £270.

Now that's money saving.

So in my opinion it is much better value long term than specs and lenses.


Oh, and for those wanting to know, yes it does hurt, but the results are spectacular. 8) 8) 8)

[bionicwoman]

Hi

I've had laser eye surgery (lasek) a couple of months ago with Optimax and can't recommend it strongly enough.

I wore contact lenses and glasses for 16 years and have shelled out loads of money on examinations, glassses, solutions and trying out every kind of contact lens on the market.

In the end you'll save alot of money and depending on the laser treatment you have (after a couple of days of discomfort - if that) your life really will be changed for the better.

Whichever eye clinic you contact, can put you in touch with previous customers who have had eye laser surgery and you can ask them about their experiences - which was of great help to me.

Having the operation has really transformed my life. And no, I have no affinities with any eye/laser clinic - I just want to reiterate having the operation has given me such a great quality of life! I wish I had done it years ago.

Good luck!

[comicmankev]

If anyone is quick, and you have a friend that wants it done, phone optimax with the details of both parties and say you have seen the 'msn deal' which is 'BOGOF'.

My wife has been looking into it for ages but couldnt find someone that also wanted to do it! Closing date is TODAY, so you would have to decide quick. But after all my research, I've found that only optimax has 100% positive feedback!

[tubbsandeddie]

Hi evil monkey,
Be careful of making such a decision on financial grounds. What price would you place on your eyesight? It is also inadvisable to have any non-emergency procedure done on a pair of organs at the same time. Things can go wrong with any surgery and I would say it would be better to have one eye done at a time. That way in the unlikely event of a complication your troubles are not doubled. Investigate the area thoroughly, finding out about as many providers as possible - who the surgeons are, their experience, where the op is done, follow-up, patient feedback etc. It may be worthwhile contacting the Royal College of Opthalmologists for general information on the subject (http://www.rcophth.ac.uk/public/laser.html). However, they cannot recommend individual providers as there is currently no need to register with a national organisation. Also speak to your GP to hear his opinion.
If, after researching exhaustively, you think this procedure is for you, choose the provider you feel is the BEST not the cheapest. If you choose a substandard provider, a saving of even quite a few hundred pounds may not seem quite so prudent.
So, if I've seemed a bit gloomy, I haven't meant to. Do your homework thoroughly and be prepared to pay for what you think is likely to have the best outcome. Finally, even though two singles operations will be more expensive than a double, it is best not to gamble with what you can't afford to lose.

[Lillibet]

I know several people who have had this done, all both eyes the same day & all with excellent results.
2 friends had it done whilst holidaying in South Africa, cost £400 for both eyes & standard of care was superb, plus another I know had it done in India whilst on a business trip : £190 for both eyes, standard of care was again excellent & he went & presented at a conference the next day. I am looking at having it done in SA if we go for a friends wedding there later next year. All reports suggest that these countries offer a equal if not superier service in these sorts of things.
I think initally there were lots of unanswered questions with this operation, certainly my optician recommended against it when I enquired 7 years ago but now says it would be very suitable for me & thinks it is much less likely to have a negative result.
I would not, however, consider going anywhere (UK or overseas) without a personal recommendation.

[George_Bray]

I thought of having laser eye surgery some years back. I am so relieved I didn't go ahead for at least two reasons.

(a) the risk of it going wrong, which seems to be about 1 in 10 or worse. I'm not prepared to accept those odds with my eye sight. A friend had it done last year at Boots and has had at least one follow-up operation. All is not well. His sight in at least one eye is not as good as it was before, with glasses.

Search for and read many websites that urge caution. Then decide.

(b) Recently, I've started having problems with long (reading) sight, as affects many/most folks from 40s onwards. It's a blessing being able to remove glasses and have crystal clear vision close up. When I wear contact lens (a bit like laser corrected vision if they get it spot on) I need to put on reading glasses to read. I'd hate to lose the option. For this reason alone, I would not now have laser correction even if they paid me £1200 and had a 100% success rate.

Regards
George

[comicmankev]

I was suggesting optimax because I know from personal recomendations that they are the best. Failure rate is NOWHERE near 1 in 10, not sure where that came from, it's about 1%. And that 1% don't GO WRONG, they just need it re-done.

Most horror stories are from a year back or further, and not many in recent time. Obviously with all major surgery, someone is going to be on the net to put a dampener on it, but this is one thing that (dependant on how your sight is) is a must!

[Ticklemouse]

I had my eyes tested a couple of weeks ago and asked in general about LES. Unfortunately, if you're long sighted, as I am, then there's not a lot that can be done, but I've only heard positive things from short sighted people who have had it done.

If I could, I would (along with liposuction on my knees, but that's another story ;D ;D )

TM

[sunkenvilla]

Hello.

I had laser eye surgery performed in July of this year. It was done by Ultralase in Chester and I cannot recommend them highly enough.

They are about the most expensive, I paid £2500 for both of my eyes, but it is not worth trying to save money when it is your eyes you are dealing with.

I had heard of a couple of horror stories relating to a cheaper company (mentioned elsewhere in this thread) from my wife (who is the medical profession) and so decided I would go with Ultralase. I chose Ultralase as I know other people who have been treated by them.

I have to say it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. My sight is now near perfect. In fact I am so pleased with the results that once we have the money my wife will be having the laser procedure as well (basically, I was the guinea pig).

With regards the procedure itself, if you make it past the pre-check and decide to have the surgery there is nothing to worry about. A couple of days later you can be ready for the surgery. It takes about five minutes to do each eye and at worse I felt only a little discomfort.

Three hours after the surgery my sight was better than it had been with either my glasses or contact lenses.

Hope this is of some help and if you need to know anything else, send me a PM.

sunkenvilla

[Mustang]

I had laser eye surgery a few years ago ... and it was one of the best things I've ever done. I spent ages researching the various types of ops, their pros and cons, as well as the various places/people that offered it. I checked out Boots, Optimax, and every other place you can imagine. I also talked to my optician who lent me a video which gave me more info. I talked to the opthalmic consultants at my local hospital as well. I chatted to people who had it done, and scanned the net for research papers. Phew!

Because of my previous history of eye problems (which was why I was visiting the hospital's opthalmic consultants), I was very, very careful about finding out everything I could before I decided.

I came across several papers, notably: http://www.optometry.co.uk/articles/20000421/obrart.pdf which cleared a lot up for me. The author seemed to know what they were talking about, which was not surprising seeing as he was also recommended by my local opthalmic consultant. He works for St Thomas' Hospital in London (where the first PRK surgery was done). Every week, he does a few private patients. After a consult with him where we explored what was possible, risks, etc, I chose to have LASEK because it suited me most. LASEK is a variant of PRK, and is NOT LASIK.

The actual op was totally painless and took a few minutes. You can see a short video someone took of the same op at http://www.twinnies.demon.co.uk/prk/prkexperience.html.

The next 2 days I was climbing the walls! Lots of hurt! Found out later I reacted to the pain killers I was given! When I had the 2nd eye done, I just used asprin and it was much better. I had loads of subsequent check ups with Mr O'Brart who was making sure everything was going well.

I now have near perfect eyesight ;-)

So, don't assume that Optimax, Boots etc are the only place ... I would highly recommend Mr O'brart. Whoever you go with, ask who the surgeon is, and make sure you trust them and what they are about to do to you!

Mr O'Brart performs loads of laser eye surgery for NHS research .. where I understand he charges less than for his private patients. The difference is that he may not do the surgery .. one of his (qualified) team may, and there may not be so many post-surgery check ups. But the op is the same - no experimental stuff! May be worth phoning him up and asking?

[George_Bray]

...I have to say it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. My sight is now near perfect...

But how long will the perfect sight last? In recent years my short sight has improved from -5.5 to -4.5 and may improve further. Now everyone tells me this is quite common as you get older. Nobody mentioned that when I considered having laser surgery whilst in my 30s. So if they'd corrected to -5.5 then, it would presumably be a huge +1.0 out now. No thanks!

[EvilMonkey]

Cor blimey I never thought I'd open a can of worms, seems like its a marmite topic (love it or hate it).

Just to reassure some of you, I've not made the decision (or rather my wife's not made the decision) based purely on the savings. She loves the idea of freeing herself from the shackles of glasses \ lenses. I just wanted to highlight that its getting so cheap now that it can be compared to glasses and lenses as a treatment.

I did vaguely look into treatment abroad, but I like the idea of having something local for follow up sessions etc.

I have looked into it a fair bit and at all of the companies mentioned so far (also moorfields eye hospital do it). I've had a recommendation for the place we're going to and the customer service they showed my friend sounds excellent, so I'm happy with the eye clinic.

I'd be interested to hear from the anti-laser people with some references, especially the 1 in 10 failure rate? I looked at moorfields, bupa and the NHS sites and they all claim that the 2 main forms LASIK and LASEK are safe (IE they carry some risk, but generally they are standard surgical procedures....)

[EvilMonkey]

But how long will the perfect sight last? In recent years my short sight has improved from -5.5 to -4.5 and may improve further. Now everyone tells me this is quite common as you get older. Nobody mentioned that when I considered having laser surgery whilst in my 30s. So if they'd corrected to -5.5 then, it would presumably be a huge +1.0 out now. No thanks!


All the places I went to ask for a couple of years of prescriptions to prove your eye sight has stabilised. If its changing either way then they'd not be happy to do it for exactly the reason you stated....

[George_Bray]

All the places I went to ask for a couple of years of prescriptions to prove your eye sight has stabilised. If its changing either way then they'd not be happy to do it for exactly the reason you stated....


How long do you expect to live? 90 years or more if you are lucky, perhaps. I suggest a couple of years of prescriptions are an insignificant blip. My sight was stable from when I was about 20 until past 40. I certainly thought it was stable enough when I was in my mid 30s to have laser eye surgery. Several big name laser clinics agreed, with their plush reception suites and persuasive sales talk.

But then, suddenly, a couple of years ago, the prescription started moving again (improving) by 1 dioptre so far and perhaps it will go further. That's a big change. It seems this is quite common as you get older but nobody mentioned it before.

You could do worse than visit www.lasikdisaster.com, with links to plenty or other sites warning of the dangers and risks of Lasik.

[londonman81]

It's all very well having laser surgery done today but what if your prescription changes soon after?? There's no way of knowing whether someone's prescription has 'stabilised' as mine has changed after periods of more than 2 years.

Also I'm vary wary of any 'new' treatments when it comes to health. The first laser treatments were done around 10 years ago so the first person to have had it done has only been living with it for 10 years - no one has lived an entire life with it yet for us to know what effects it could have later on in life. I've heard that there may be a theoretical chance of the laser causing cancer..... but as with all these things the companies are pushing them right now without any consideration for the consumer (e.g mobile phones)

So cost should not be your only consideration!

[EvilMonkey]

There seems to be so much fear over this issue. The whole thing about "its only been going 10 years" is slightly incorrect as several of the companies have been running commercially for 10+ years. Even if it wasn't, how long have soft "daily" lenses been around, I'd say less or not a whole lot longer. Did you even ask the question before putting those in your eyes?

On Georges point, I agree, although it is a bit of a gamble. 10 years glass free (in your example) may well be worth the money for a lot of people. As you get older it is comon to get long sighted, but it isn't certain...

I guess I was trying to highlight that things have come on a fair bit since it was 1st introduced. As someone else posted its now possible to get both eyes done for £1000. None of the clinics I called tried a "hard sell" when I asked for info. All the clinics I called had registered opthalmic surgeons at the hand of the laser. Its a case of an extra choice for those who need it, if you don't like it or judge the risks not worth the benefits then thats your call.

I would be interested to see the actual rates of serious side effects if anyone can find a site? The lasikdisaster site seems to be a collection of stories and such to be taken with as much of a pinch of salt as the marketing pages. Anyone find anything on a reputable health site?

[GraniteMum]

I only know one person who has had it done and they are one of the 10% (or 1%, I am not sure) for whom it is not successful. One year on they have dry eyes needing drops every hour or so and they still need glasses. They are not able to drive at night time either. They are about £1000 worse off for the operation but in terms of emotional issues it is far worse than just the money.

I hope you are in the 90% (or 99%) that are loving it!

[nearlyrich]

http://forum.moneysavingexpert.com/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.cgi?board=Doyouknow;action=display;num=109079 1245;start=4#4

That's a link to previous diuscussions on laser surgery.

If you can't be bothered to read it all can I just say I am totally satisfied with the 10 years plus of 2020 vision and compared to cost of specs and lenses it was a bargain.

I used www.ultralase.co.uk and their follow up was second to none, yes it hurt but not anymore using the newer techniques I believe.

Sheel asked ........ How much does it hurt?

Sheel have you had children? did you forget the pain and have another? LOL

My experience was 1993/94 the procedure was extremely painful and could only be done one eye at a time but I was so pleased with the results I couldn't wait to get the second eye done.

[nearlyrich]

I don't think it hurts now so you should be OK and if you are in Leeds ( I think you are) ultralase are based at Jimmy's so you won't have far to go. If you have any questions please pm me as I know it is a hard decision to make but I think it is the best thing I ever did healthwise.

[EvilMonkey]

Just a quick note, I took a look at the website mentioned above:-

http://www.lasik-eyes.co.uk/

Seems to be a really good site, with reviews by clinic (or rather company) from real people.

Good for tips on handling the surgery.

I also downloaded the pdf's from the Royal Cllege of Opthalmologists, good advice there too. Will stand me in good stead when we go to the clinic on Saturday for the preliminaries.....

[debs]

I spent 6 years deciding wether to have my eyes done or not and then saving up the money to have them done. I finally took the plunge last December. It has been fantastic since then.

I used Optimax in Manchester, I had epi-lasik, had both eyes done at the same time, I have had no problems, I also used a buy one get one free offer that I found on this website. It has totally transformed my life. Now my mum and auntie have both had theirs done with the Bring a friend free offer which Optimax are now doing again over the christmas period.

If you do decide to get it done, then I suggest you have 5-7 days where you dont have to deal with anything (work, kids etc.) you may need 2 days in a darkened room as your eyes may be sensitive to the light. There is no pain involved in the operation, just discomfort for about 5 days, the main thing is your eyes feel gritty and water constantly but you are not allowed to rub them as this can cause problems with the healing process.

You are given pain killers and sleeping tablets, I suggest you take the pain killers as soon as you leave the centre and when you get home, go straight to bed and sleep. The best medicine is sleep, my mum slept for 2 days and then flew to turkey on the 4th day after her operation.

Anyway, I hope you come to a decision which is right for you. I know I would recommend Optimax again, my 2 other aunties are having their eyes done over christmas.

All I can say is thanks to this website our family has saved over £4000 on eye surgery alone.

Debs.

[Wightfez]

My wife had laser eye surgery 3 years ago at Optimax in Leeds, we paid £495 per eye and is probably the best money ever spent. Not only the fact that you can see normally (she now has 20/20 vision), but the hassle free mornings from contact lenses.

Remember:


Spending time each day cleaning and preparing.

Getting drunk and forgetting to take them out, not pleassant in the morning.

Spending hours on your knees looking for the dropped lenses.

Forgetting to neutralise before putting them in- Ouch!

Of course it's an individual choice but here's our opinion.

Optimax (Leeds) very professional, very thorough and I was suprised by the amount of aftercare you received, I expected that once it was done and the cash banked it would be see ya! but not at all.

Yes it does hurt, but not really whilst having it done, it is mainly afterwards. The anesthetic wears off a couple of hours after then it does hurt and mainly feels very itchy and irritable like having grit in your eye.

You can see the laser but it's not the scene out of James Bond (Laser, metal table and crotch!) you just have to focus on the pin !!!!! of light. You can smell it a little bit which isn't particulaly nice but hardly a amjor problem. Your eyes will water incessantly for at least 24 hours but will stop eventually.

You do have to suffer the embarassment of walking through the city centre looking like spiderman without the suit just the large plastic shields over your eyes.

Great enjoyment spending time with my wife after the shields came off, reading signs from 30 yards that would have only been a blur previously.

As I type this my wife just walked past and said I would have it done again ten times over.

They will tell you all of the risks and in my opinion they were brutally honest, in our opinion it's worth the intial consultation than you can make a decision for yourself.

Good luck in whatever you chose!

[gordyffc]

Another thumbs up for Optimax (Glasgow) from me. :)

After wearing glasses and contacts for 12 years and pondering over laser surgery for the last few years I decided to take the plunge and had lasik surgery in October. They price matched another offer then took £50 off so I got both eyes done (at the same time) for £1,100

The service was excellent and as others have stated they don't give you a "hard sell". I must admitt though reading the yellow leaflet with the potential problems if things go wrong is very scary.

Regarding the pain I wouldn't say it was bad at all the weirdest part for me was when they lasered my eyes and I could smell the burning. ;D You do constantly blink for a few hours after the surgery as you feel like you have grit in your eyes but other than that it was pain and hassle free for me.

I'm over the moon with the results, I now have 20:20 vision and have since been back for 2 after care appointments and every thing is ok.

If you really really want it and are sick and tired of contacts and glasses like I was then go for it.

[MaryC]

I had mine done in September this year at Optimax in Manchester. My sight is great and I have no problems with night vision or dry eyes (bar that I get grit in them more often but this is more due to the not having the glasses to shield my eyes from dust!)

I was scared about it and had hesitated for a year or so. In the end I bit the bullet and went for a consultation with the surgeon. He told me about all the things that could gfo wrong which sounded scary but then I asked how many problems he had had in the last few years. He said he did 30 eyes one week and 60 the next and that in the previous 12 months he had had 2 problems. Both were related to the flap which is cut and both were sorted quickly and the people involved are fine now. The previous year he had no problems.
This calmed me down a lot and he was so calm and competent that I went for it. He has his own website which outlines the research which has been done and the various options and things which was very useful.

I have raved about it to everyone I speak to as my experience has been so positive. However, the best thing to do is actually to speak to a surgeon and get their advice as they really know what they are talking about.

[leylie]

Another one here with a note of caution. In agreement with Londonman - it's a relatively new procedure so no one knows the long term effects.

Just for interest, I work for a local charity for the visually impaired, visiting people who have been registered blind and partially sighted. More than half of us in the office COULD have the surgery, I often wish I didn't need my specs - but not one of us will risk it.
How many eye consultants & opticians risk getting their own eyes done? I honestly don't know the answer, but I do remember reading an article a couple of years ago, by a moorfields consultant making this point.

Good Luck whatever you decide

[nearlyrich]

Curly, I think if you read the thread there are people offering experiences of over 10 years since they had treatment, me included. The surgeon who did my eyes had undergone the treatment himself before offering it as a service to the public. I had a good experience no problems no side effects at all, ever.

I know things can go wrong and I would be the first to say it is a decision that an individual has to make for themselves but speaking personally I started to wear glasses at 13 my eyes got progressively worse. I tried various kinds of contact lenses but always ended up with sore eyes.

For me the worst thing I can think of is to go blind, I know or have known a few people who suffer from blindness, I love reading and can't sit down for 5 mins without a book to read or I get bored.

I had Lasik in 1993 and 1994 so now have over 10 years of 20:20 vision, confirmed still 20:20 by a free eye check a few weeks ago ( Thanks to this site).

It is great to not worry if your spare specs are in the glovebox just in case the eyes reject the lenses or you break your no1 pair.

It's also good to save £200 to £300 per year and just have a pair of nice sunglasses which you can wear or not as the mood takes you.

Try it you might like it................. ;)

[EvilMonkey]

I find it strange that this is one of those topics which people are a little funny about. When you look into it, the risks are incredibly low of even minor complications, however people still go on about how dangerous and new it is... As I said before we all routinely subject ourselves to "new" procedures with out a second thought to their safety, yet laser eye surgery gets peoples hackles up...

[pin]

I've been reading this thread with interest. I've been wearing glasses / contact lenses since as long as I can remember. Laser eye treatment, on the face of it sounds like a blessing.

However I remain sceptical about it. I've chatted to a couple of optom friends about this, and they are not at all keen on it. They say that it is not a proven method (only been introduced in the UK since 1989). That might seem a long time, but considering you have to use your eyes for your entire life.

I have also met a few people who have had the treatment. Some swear by it, and think it is the best thing they have ever done. However a few have complained that they often suffer from dry eyes.

Things may change in the future, and laser eye surgery may become a proven method. Until then I think I'm going to stick with poking my eyes out with contact lenses.

Also there is an article about laser eye surgery in today's Times:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2-1390686,00.html

[mzmoneypenny]

For information:

My boyfriend's been undergoing laser eye surgery since August this year - I say that, because he had to try 3 times before both eyes were lasered. !

The problem was when cutting a flap into the eye, the flap wrinkled. !When this happens they have to put the flap back down and let it heal (approx 1 month), before trying laser surgery again.

The first time his right eye flap wrinkled, the second time, his right eye was lasered and left eye flap wrinkled. !Finally, about a month ago, the left eye got lasered and this time was successful.

He got it done at Accuvision (http://www.accuvision.co.uk)in London (we stay in Scotland) and it cost 2k per eye. They have been great with him (bearing in mind he's had 3 visits to get it done!).

His prescription was +6.75 in one eye and +6.5 in the other and this has gone down to +1 and +1.5 respectively as of a couple of weeks ago.

Now, he's now not worn glasses/contacts for about a month (he's had to wear glasses since he was 3). !He's waiting until his eyes settle down and he'll get another sight test - he may need glasses for driving/watching TV.

Hope it goes well for you, if you go ahead with it! !:)

[nearlyrich]

This cutting a flap business wasn't done when I had mine done and the method then ( 1993/94) was to scrape off the top layer and that's what really hurt after the op.

I hope your boyfriend gets sorted soon.

[londonman81]

For all those of you who rubbished my earlier claims about laser eye surgery not being a proven method due to it's relative youth , it looks like the govt and senior Optom's are not too keen on it either...read this....

http://news.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=1395042004

As I said before - however brilliant people might say it has been for them so far they cannot have lived with it for more than 10 years so far and no one knows what long term effects there are.

Also bear this fact in mind - as you get to your forties the lens in your eye becomes less flexible which actually can help to slightly improve short-sightedness if you have it. This means if you have laser surgery when younger you could reach your forties and notice that your sight goes out of kilter again - maybe long sightedness this time - !because of the natural change in your lens at that age....will you fork out again for more laser surgery then?!

[aje2010]

I was the third member of my family to have the laser treatment. I paid £800 with Optimax for the Lasik (would recommend as you don't have any pain after the treatment). Optimax are probably the cheapest but I advised my sister to go elsewhere. I went with her to Ultralase and they seem so much more professional and experienced.

Having said all that my vision was corrected to 20:20 and I had a smooth operation. The only thing I've noticed lately (as my brother also has) is that my night vision is somewhat blurred.

[nearlyrich]

I am in my mid 40's and still got 20:20 vision after 10 years, it was never about saving money when I had it done but if I had to start wearing lenses/glasses again or pay for more treatment I know what I would do.

My eyes changes massively between 13 and 28 then stuck at the same prescription for about 4 years. They haven't changed since I had the treatment.

Each to his or own, I know people who couldn't face putting contact lenses in everyday. ;)

[madkid88]

is lser eye treatment cheaper in other countries then Uk.i.e india.would any1 recommend goin there and getting it done

[Liz19]

I have worn glasses for 30 years with the odd try of contact lenses with no success. Optician persuaded me to try soft lenses in January - the kind you can sleep in - they are fantastic and I only have to take them out once a month. I don't think I would bother with laser surgery as these lenses are great.

[Ted_Hutchinson]

is lser eye treatment cheaper in other countries then Uk.i.e india.would any1 recommend goin there and getting it done

India LASIK treatment centre (http://www.spectacleremoval.com/cost.html)

Looks like you could have a free holiday in India and get your eyes fixed and still save money on the cost here.
Or you might consider South Africa
SA LASIK (http://www.mediscapes.com/about_mediscapes/cost_comparison.htm)

But that isn't a personal recommendation. If the NHS nice guidelines don't support it I will probably get banned for posting medical advice here.

[allycat]

Looking through the posts for cheap contact lenses and spec for my wife (who's run out of lenses and the specs are on their last legs) I've also come across sites for laser eye surgery. As soon as I started looking into it, a couple of colleagues chipped in that they'd had it and my wife got quite excited by the idea.

2 places have it interest free and for £1200 for both eyes:-

http://www.optimax.co.uk
&
http://www.eyeclinicdirect.com/ECDirect/MainSite/about/New_Welcome_Welcome.asp

The wifes booked in for a pre op exam now, so this posts for a couple of things.

Any experiences? (good or bad, although good would be less scarey!)

Let others know that there might be a third way for them.... (not for me as my eyes are still changing and your prescription needs to be stable...)
My fiance had laser eye surgery and has never looked back since - (scuse the pun!). He always investigates things thoroughly before deciding what to do and he went to Boots in London where the laser surgery is beneath the opticians. No point giving you the name now because they have since gone out of business. The point I want to make is that he decided to go with them because the person who does the actual lasering was the same person who took the readings at the preliminary appointment. In lots of other places it was a case of someone else taking the readings/measurements and the specialist chappy going from someone elses readings. This made him a little less confident. Boots laser clinic lost money but if it hadn't been for that I would highly recommend them.
Good luck!
allycat

[rubyginger]

hi
if your're quick there is an offer of laser eye surgery on ebay , look under LASER EYE SURGERY and it's still there , tho only about a day & half to go ,
epi lasik is 695 for both eyes , upgrade to 990 for lasik . instead of 1700. Offer is made by optimax , my husband has just had it done , he's delighted
no more glasses!! excellent treatment

[condyk]

Thanks rubyginger (interesting name?)

I have thought about this for 5 years at least and done lots of reading to satisfy myself it is now well worth the risk. I have not bothered tho' yet due to price, but this offer and the pages full of positive feedback made me rethink, so I bought it.

Will feedback results. Can't wait to be speccie free after 28 years ... though will no doubt be bricking myself during the procedure and for a week or two afterwards in case my eyeballs explode or fall out LOL ;-)

Dave

[Ted_Hutchinson]

Optical Express have just sent me a couple of 10% off vouchers valid for one month.

They are also doing a free (normally £60) consultation and guaranteeing the price will be FROM £600 (bet that's an easy guarantee to keep) phone 08702 20 20 20 quoting ref 11/dmlas

This is not a personal recommendation or a referral, I have no knowledge of Optical Express regarding Laser Eye surgery nor any financial interest in posting this.



***edited by board guide-this site does not allow the selling/swapping etc of goods/vouchers***

[Spikey]

Just had another Optical Express voucher sent to me to pass on to anyone interested in getting a "Free" consultation for Laser Eye Correction and possibly the chance of winning back the cost of treatement. Expires 30th April and will post it to the first person to PM me with their address.

Ted, I've sent you a PM.

Spikey

[Ted_Hutchinson]

Ted, I've sent you a PM.

Spikey

Have posted the voucher.
Have you and anyone else seen this thread
Laser eye surgery £695 for both! (showthread.html?t=40167&highlight=laser)

[katiepops]

Okay, I've only skimmed through this post because it's late and I should be asleep ...

I work at Birmingham's Eye Hospital. The general consensus of opinion among most of the Consultants there (we are the second largest eye unit in the country) is that you don't want to touch it with a bargepole. Of course, there are Consultants at our hospital who will do this procedure privately ... I won't pass on the opinion of them that some of the other Consultants have!

All surgery has risks and benefits, and laser correction is no different. Of course, when it goes wrong it's the good old NHS that has to pick up the pieces and fund the corrective treatment.

Personally speaking I wouldn't even consider it - there's nothing wrong with wearing glasses or contact lenses in my opinion! Why would you want to pay someone to do something to your eye that basically is tantamount to sticking a red hot poker in and burning the heck out of it???

Just my opinion of course!

Kate

[Ted_Hutchinson]

Okay, I've only skimmed through this post because it's late and I should be asleep ...

I work at Birmingham's Eye Hospital. The general consensus of opinion among most of the Consultants there (we are the second largest eye unit in the country) is that you don't want to touch it with a bargepole.
The link I posted to the other thread
Laser eye surgery £695 for both! (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=40167&page=3&pp=10&highlight=laser)
does include a copy of the NICE guidelines.
IPG102 Laser in situ keratomileusis for the treatment of refractive errors - information for people considering the procedure, and for the public (http://www.nice.org.uk/pdf/ip/IPG102publicinfo.pdf)
However it does seem strange to consider that your advice, which could, as it obliges people to consider medically the long term impact of such operations on their health, could be contravening the rules of this forum whereas advice encouraging people to seek the cheapest possible supplier of such services is entirely within the remit of the forum.
Personally I think a rethink of the rules is required and people should get their priorities right.

Edit
Sorry forgot this isn't in the Health Board so the above isn't really relevent.
PS I see this thread has now moved into the Health forum where direct medical advice is not supposed to be given. Obviously I think the advice which has been given in good faith and is consistent with the NICE guidelines should be allowed to stand but it does rather make a mockery of the health forum rules.

[ishaqmir]

I'm currently a final year optometry student, and personally, would never have laser eye surgery done. the problem with lasik at the moment, is that it essentially cuts a flap into the cornea (clear window of the eye, that provides most of the refractive power to the eye) and allows the laser to gain access to the stroma, which in a lame term is the filling in the cornea. this allows the surgeon to flatten or steepen the cornea depending on what power changes are required.

The flap is then replaced and everything may seem all perfect, ur vision may be very good, etc, etc,. but the main problem at the moment is that the flap never really heals. i.e. it remains open and is more prone to infection. there is a vast amount of research going on in vision science investigating why when the cornea is injured, it heals, but when its ablated with a laser, it doesnt heal. so i'll always stay well away from laser eye surgery.

PRK used to be the other method used, but was very painful, but at least there was no flap left hanging around. but still, it also came with its complications.

also, when you hit 40+ i'm afraid you'll be needing spectacles again for reading, as laser will never correct your reading vision, unless self-accomodating intraocular lenses implanted into the eye are successfully invented and work well.

[Ginger_Pudding]

I am having laser eye surgery next Tuesday at Optical Express in Manchester. The type I am having is Bilateral Lasek which involves softening the epithelium with alcohol and then moving it to one side , then the laser is applied and then the epithelium is put back into place. I had the choice of Lasik or Lasek , but although there will possibly be several days of discomfort after Lasek , I much preferred the sound of that than the risk of having of permanently dry eyes that I understand can happen with Lasik. I am over 40 and understand I will have to have reading glasses in several years , but that's ok with me.

My daughter's friend has recently had this procedure and is delighted with the results and I look forward to my surgery with no doubts , apart from the slight apprehension that one is bound to feel before any surgery. If anyone is interested in hearing how I get on , i'll report back after Tuesday.

Edit to say many thanks to Ted for very kindly sending me a voucher for 10% off at Optical Express , saving me £120 :cool:

[Ginger_Pudding]

It's been a week since I had laser eye surgery (Lasek) so thought i'd post an update on how i've got on.

The surgery itself was fine and I didn't feel a thing , not even the slight pressure the surgeon said i'd feel. It was over very quickly and the only stress I had that morning was getting lost on the way there! On leaving the clinic I could see quite clearly. I didn't have to wear the shields , just sunglasses and wasn't in any discomfort until a few hours later. Then I started feeling as if my eyeballs had been sandpapered which lasted until Friday afternoon , but was bearable. I had the bandage lenses removed on the Saturday and told that everything was fine including the fact that my sight was still blurred. My sight is improving every day , last week I couldn't watch TV or read anything on the PC , but although there is still slight blurring , I can now do both things. My daughter's friend could see ok almost straight away , so I don't know whether it's an age thing or perhaps bcause I have thick corneas! :confused:

I go on holiday a week next Monday , so I hope my vision will be crystal clear by then , but it will be great not to have to bother with lenses and glasses , except hopefully sunglasses :cool:

[cid]

Everybody's different, don't worry if it's not perfect straight away.

I had it done at the start of 1992. I also had the sandpaper effect for a couple of days, which some people don't get, but after that averything was fine. Blurry for a week or so, yes, but fine after that and still fine to this day (20/20 vision still, "I can see for miles and miles and miles and miles and...")

The worst thing, without a shadow of a doubt, was being told not to rub my eyes at all for a whole month. That was dreadful as I'm always rubbing my eyes, but knowing how much damage it could cause and the benefits of not doing it, I resisted.

Oh and make sure to do the drops when you're told to as they are as important as the consultants tell you they are. Mine was also Lasik by the way, from Ultralase.

Good luck with it!

[penfold88]

Hello,

does anyone have opinions on a company called Accuvision?, I've just been there for my consulation and was wandereing if they are actually any good before I give the go ahead.

[Ted_Hutchinson]

Two other threads you should read first
Laser eye surgery £695 for both! (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=40167&highlight=laser)
and [/url][url="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=13007&highlight=laser"] Laser Eye Surgery (Cheaper long term?) (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=13007&highlight=laser)

In one maybe both of these threads I have posted the NICE guidelines which anyone considering this treatment should read. There are also posts from those working in this field who have expressed serious professional reservations about the long term implications.

[penfold88]

Thanks Ted,

After checking out the NICE guidelines I think I'll give some more thought about having LASIK done as I dont exactley like the idea of a flap not healing properley leaving the eye unstable. BTW, also spoke with Accuvision about this and they claim that its takes 8hrs for it to heal but 'structually' it can take about 1yr, but I suppose some people will tell you anything as long as it involves money.

[sdl811]

All, some serious help/info required here.

It my partners Birthday comming up in Jan and she would really like to have her eyes corrected so no need to wear contacts/glass.

There seem to be so made places doing this sort of thing so am in the market for helpfull information, successes , recommendations of who to use and who to aviod and of course the level of service you receive.

I'm sure the best sort of prices are around the 500 quid mark per eye.

And info will be very much welcomed.

[Pink-winged]

Your thread is more likely to get more replies on the health board, so I hope that you don't mind if I move it over there for you.

Pink

[Ted_Hutchinson]

Previous threads Laser Eye Surgery (Cheaper long term?) (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=13007)
Laser Eye Surgery? (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=1486)

Do read the input from the health professionals and the NICE guidelines. If none of the experts would have it done on themselves I wonder why?

[pin]

As an alternative to laser Eye surgery have a look at Ortho K contact lens system. The basic premise is you where the contacts at night while sleeping. When you wake up your vision is corrected for about 8 hours. So in effect you where the contacts while sleeping and take them out in the morning.

There was an article in the Metro about a month ago about it.

[Ted_Hutchinson]

As an alternative to laser Eye surgery have a look at Ortho K contact lens system. The basic premise is you where the contacts at night while sleeping. When you wake up your vision is corrected for about 8 hours. So in effect you where the contacts while sleeping and take them out in the morning.

There was an article in the Metro about a month ago about it.More info about OrthoK. (http://www.refractivesource.com/patients/alternatives/nontrad/orthokeratology_%28ortho-k%29.htm)
The Ortho-K Network (http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&ct=res&cd=1&url=http%3A//www.ortho-k.net/&ei=Tiz_QsDMMcm8YMT66KkH)
fromN.F.Burnett Hodd (http://www.nfburnetthodd.com/index.html) Orthokeratology (http://www.nfburnetthodd.com/orthok.html) Cost?

The procedure is time consuming and involves several lens changes. However, the first years’ charges are less than the cost of daily disposable contact lenses. Once complete, the on-going costs are significantly less than conventional soft contact lens wear.

[sdl811]

Links don't seem to work?

Previous threads

Laser Eye Surgery (Cheaper long term?) (http://showthread.html/?t=13007&highlight=laser)
Laser Eye Surgery? (http://showthread.html/?t=1486&highlight=laser)

Do read the input from the health professionals and the NICE guidelines. If none of the experts would have it done on themselves I wonder why?

[Ted_Hutchinson]

Links don't seem to work?I think I've fixed them now. If not use the site search engine to search for those threads but change the capitals to lower case.

[nearlyrich]

I'm still really happy with my 20:20 vision, I was very shortsighter left eye was -6 with a bad astigmatism, lasered in 1993 and right eye -2 done in early 1994.

I had an eye test last year, thanks to this site, and I was amazed that I have had no changes and I still have perfect sight.

Each to his/her own, it's a very personal decision, I have enjoyed not wearing glasses, contact lenses gave me bad eye infections and ultimately it has saved me a fortune although that wasn't a consideration in my decision to have it done.

[LilacLillie]

My son had his eyes done in Bankok 2yrs ago. He swears by the op. On the downside, it has gone against him when applying for jobs. Lots of places won't employ you if you've had lazer correction, because there is not enough long term data on effects.
LL

[poorbabe]

Why is that LilacLillie?

[Zeus]

Take a look at www.lasik-eyes.co.uk

The site gives some independant sound advice so that you can make an informed decision on your treatment.

Zeus

[Udowsky]

Hi

I've had laser eye surgery (lasek) a couple of months ago with Optimax and can't recommend it strongly enough.

I wore contact lenses and glasses for 16 years and have shelled out loads of money on examinations, glassses, solutions and trying out every kind of contact lens on the market.

In the end you'll save alot of money and depending on the laser treatment you have (after a couple of days of discomfort - if that) your life really will be changed for the better.

Whichever eye clinic you contact, can put you in touch with previous customers who have had eye laser surgery and you can ask them about their experiences - which was of great help to me.

Having the operation has really transformed my life. And no, I have no affinities with any eye/laser clinic - I just want to reiterate having the operation has given me such a great quality of life! I wish I had done it years ago.

Good luck!

Hi

I just red about your eye surgery and as that was over a year ago I wonder how do you feel now or how is it? Any problems or any other info you can give me I would appreciate.

Thanx and hope to hear from you soon

Dan

[baby frogmella]

Hi Udowsky

I also had Lasik done about 3 years ago at London branch of Optimax. I had both eyes done on same day. They give you these anaesthetic eye drops which totally numb any pain, so basically i didn't feel any pain at the time of the operation. 2 days later there was slight pain once my eyes started to heal but it was bearable, nothing major. The only side effect i have is that i get a lot of light glare during the night...however that's not a problem any more as i have become used to it. I was short-sighted (-8 in both eyes!!) and apprently suffering from glare is one of the possible side-effects the weaker your eyesight. Oh and another thing: your cornea (surface of eye) thickness has to be a certain minimum thickness in order to qualify for lasik treatment...your treating doctor will tell you this.

Hope this info helps

[a5ian300zx]

Have just been for a consultation at optical express.They quoted me two different prices for each eye (different prescription in each eye). They proceeded to tell me that they charge according to prescription levels the higher the prescription the more they charge. I was under the impression that it is one fixed price (£795 per eye) Is this common practise amongst all the laser eye clinics?

My prescription is left eye: -2.25 (£995) right eye -2.75 (£1195) for Wavefront.

Does this sound right? Should I check out other clinics or does anyone know where it can be done cheaper without compromising quality?

[fabwitch]

I had my eyes done by Optimax in Finchley Road, London. I paid £1000 for both eyes and my prescrption was -8, so I was really blind as a bat. Optimax were fantastic and my results were fantastic, 20/20. I highly recommend them. The Doctor who did my eyes put me totally at ease and I had no pain or complications afterwards. I have never heard of charging a price per eye treated.

[beebs]

a5ian300zx,

I have many gripes with Optical Express, one of which is this pricing scheme they now have. I was quoted a flat rate of £695 per eye last year (March-ish) when I first went for a consultation, but ended up having to postpone the surgery. So I went for another consultation about 3 weeks ago, as i've decided to re-book but needed an up-to-date prescription.

I have quite poor eyesight (around -7.75 in one eye & -6 in the other) & was advised the pricing structure had changed, which apparently worked out better for 'most' customers, but in my case the price quoted (for standard Lasik treatment) was £995 for one and £895 for the other - an overall difference of £500 extra compared to 10 months ago. If i recall correctly, the price for wavefront was around £1.5k for my weakest eye, I can't remember for the other.

I was extremely unhappy with this & advised the optimetrist I wouldn't be going ahead with the surgery due to the price - my prerogative, contrary to what the extremely pushy salesman seemed to think. She then had a word with the store manager, who I assume had a word with head office...who then advised him they'd be happy to honour last year's price in my case, as it hadn't been my fault I'd had to postpone the treatment first time round. This was the only reason I eventually re-booked it with them to be honest, as the fuss & hassle I'd had the first time round trying to get a refund of my deposit was enough to test the patience of a saint.

Just to check, are you actually comparing prices like for like? As you've been quoted for Wavefront, but I would be extremely surprised if the the flat rate of £795 that you mention was for wavefront, but rather for standard lasek/lasik treatment. However if you think the price you have been quoted is overly expensive, it may be worth mentioning the previous rate & seeing if they'll honour it, as I don't see how the price restructuring can warrant such a difference in the overall cost.

Good luck if you give this a try, let us know how you get on. I have my surgery next friday (21st), and am starting to feel ever so slightly anxious about it now (I know this will sound odd, but it's not so much the surgery, but rather the thought of not wearing - or as my friend pointed out, not 'hiding behind' - my specs that is worrying me! I am 27 & have had them almost 20 years now, and the thought of the curious gawping from friends & colleagues is really doing my head in...weird, I know!).

Hope it goes well for you, whoever you decide to do the surgery with.
Take care,
Beebs.

[longbaygirl]

Echo Fabwitch - I went to Optimax in Finchley too and had both eyes done for jusst under a grand. I was - 6 in each eye, very short sighted, could not even see the number on buses - come to think of it I could hardly see the buses either - just a red blur!

I was impressed by how fast the whole thing was - literally a couple of minutes! But, the paperwork/consent/consultation was quite lengthy.

I've had no problems at all and would reccommend them.

[Thomsop]

I've just booked an assessment at Optical Express and although they didn't mention cost on the phone, their website states "from £395 per eye". I have to say, having had a trawl through various websites that Optimax seems to get the best reviews. I'm a little nervous about Optical Express as their image is a bit "value High Street". Anyone had any good experience with them?

[marko4ever25]

I had my eyes done by Optimax in Finchley Road, London. I paid £1000 for both eyes and my prescrption was -8, so I was really blind as a bat. Optimax were fantastic and my results were fantastic, 20/20. I highly recommend them. The Doctor who did my eyes put me totally at ease and I had no pain or complications afterwards. I have never heard of charging a price per eye treated.


wot deal did you get bogof? who give you the £1,000 deal? was this for wavefront or lasik?

[Kimberley]

Has anyone had this done and can anyone recommend a good clinic either in London or Bromley area. :beer:

[Nile]

Hello Kimberley

I'll move your thread over to the 'Health MoneySaving' board, where it should get more views and responses.

Hi, Martin’s asked me to post this in these circumstances: I’ve asked Board Guides to move threads if they’ll receive a better response elsewhere(please see this rule (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?p=1009335#post1009335)) so this post/thread has been moved to another board, where it should get more replies. If you have any questions about this policy please email abuse@moneysavingexpert.com (abuse@moneysavingexpert.com).

Regards

Nile

[tomstickland]

Read the small print about what they claim. Personally I'd not go near laser eye surgery. I work with industrial lasers and know several people with far more laser knowledge than myself and they share the same opinions.

[Kimberley]

Oh right, how comes most people say it's the best thing they've done :confused:

[Kimberley]

Hello Kimberley

I'll move your thread over to the 'Health MoneySaving' board, where it should get more views and responses.

Hi, Martin’s asked me to post this in these circumstances: I’ve asked Board Guides to move threads if they’ll receive a better response elsewhere(please see this rule (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?p=1009335#post1009335)) so this post/thread has been moved to another board, where it should get more replies. If you have any questions about this policy please email abuse@moneysavingexpert.com (abuse@moneysavingexpert.com).

Regards

Nile


Thank you :beer:

[tomstickland]

Laws of probability, but I'd advise taking a realistic view on the potential risks before going for it.

[chipsdog]

I Had laser eye surgery, 12 months ago exactly. It was the best thing I ever did, no more worrying about glasses and contact lenses. I went to Optimax in Leeds, it was very professional with great after care. It does hurt but the pain was worth while for the benefits.

[Ali_UK]

I had mine done 3.5 years ago and it was, indeed, the best thing I had ever done.....

That being said, I researched, asked around and visited two other clinics before opting to get it done with a doctor who had performed surgery on a colleagues husband and sister in law (this was at Optimax on Finchley Rd, North London). It took me two years from thinking about it to getting it done.

Do PLENTY of research and weigh up your options. How would your life be affected if your sight was not property corrected or over corrected? Are you prepared for the fact that you might only get a year or so before you have to start wearing glasses again? Can you slow down for a few weeks while you recover (avoiding smokey places, resting your eyes a lot, eye drops every hour/two hours for the first ffew days). Make sure your consultation is with the doctor who will actually perform the surgery.

It has changed my life but it isn't for everyone!

[lolly5648]

I know several people who have had it done at Moorfields Eye Hospital. At least if you have it done in a hospital and some thing should go wrong then you are in the right place.

See: http://www.moorfields-private.co.uk/TreatmentsConditions/Lasereyecorrection

[KizzyK]

Hi all, i'm asking this on behalf of a friend.

He really wants to go into the Navy as a radar operator (and I mean really really), however, without his glasses he is as blind as a bat and as a result the Navy wont take him on, in any role until he has had eye laser surgery.

He looking for a job (with no luck) and saving when he can from his dole money (but lets face it saving thousands isn’t going to be easy).

Does anyone if there are any schemes or charities that would lend him the money to get it done and he can pay them back?

[JennyW]

that's odd! My husbands in the navy and i've seen some of his colleagues and they wear glasses :confused:

[KizzyK]

Hes very short sighted so once he got to the part of the eye sight exams he failed :(

[1012donna]

He won't be allowed to enlist if he's had laser eye surgery. My OH is an air traffic controller in the RAF and the Air Force doesn't allow anyone to have laser eye surgery as the long term effects are not guaranteed. I would have thought the Navy is the same as ATC controllers do the same job in the RAF and the Navy. Hope this helps.

[KizzyK]

They told him to reaply after he had his eyes corrected with laser surgery

[Lob Rockster]

Having just been to Istanbul for the weekend and seen my good wifey go through Lasek herself, I can only recommend her doc.

www.leylakandur.net (http://www.leylakandur.net) is the website; for €1090 for both eyes plus hotel plus flights must've cost about £1000 for both of us to go and enjoy the city.

The website is in German; if it's not in English just email them - she and her staff speak perfect English. Her main clients are Germans; certainly we were the only non-Germans there :)

And she's awfully cute too ;)

[teedy23]

I've just booked an assessment at Optical Express and although they didn't mention cost on the phone, their website states "from £395 per eye". I have to say, having had a trawl through various websites that Optimax seems to get the best reviews. I'm a little nervous about Optical Express as their image is a bit "value High Street". Anyone had any good experience with them?
hi thomsop, just returned from optical express consultation, £395 each eyes is the starting price but I was quoted £795 each eye.....slight difference there dont you think. The staff were really nice all explained things very well, but I have to have a long hard think now about that price

[teedy23]

p.s. i can still claim back £150 from whats left of my optical allowance from healthshield and when I get my treatment done in January, another £280

[ukdrummajor]

I had this proceedure in Sept 05.

Had both eyes done at same time, total cost £790.

Within two hours of being home i had perfect vision. Have to use drops for couple of weeks after op to combat "dry eye" . My vision is now , a year on, still 20/20 (even better in one eye).

You get follow up checks for the following months , weeks etc. I can still go back now for checks if i wish. No further charge.

Everything was fully explained and very professional and quick. From getting a quote to me having perfect vision only took a week. Best decision ever by me.

was done at optical express, Manchester.

[pboae]

I also had it done at Optimax in Finchley Road. That was about 8 years ago, and I don't regret it for a minute. My script wasn't too bad -2 in both eyes, but I was badly astigmatic and that was the bigger problem. Since getting it done I do suffer a little with dry eyes, for the first year or so I used eye drops, but now it's not so bad, or maybe I just got used to it. In any case, I've always had dry eyes and it was a problem with contact lenses as well.

The only comment I would have about Finchley Rd is that I had one eye done on a week day and one on a Saturday. The week day was much better, as it was packed out on the Saturday, and though I don't think the care was any worse I found it a bit stressful and hectic.

My MiL had it done years ago, about 15 years I think, and hers didn't go so well and she has problems driving at night. The laser they used back then was narrower and when her pupil is fully dilated there is an area outside the treated section. This causes halos and other fuzziness around the edges when it is dark.

[Pont]

I've just had (Friday 6th October) lasik, both eyes, at Optical Express in Birmingham.
The proceedure was uncomfortable but not painful. I had watery vision for a couple of hours, and the gritty feeling lasted two days. I'm now on my third day and it my eyes feel wonderful. I can now see far into the distance clearly which was my main reason for having the proceedure, felt unsafe driving, and no problems with close up vision for reading etc. I now have to apply drops 4 times a day for the next week but this isn't a problem.
Total cost was £790.00 - fantastic!

[wozwebs]

Having mine done on Thursday at Optimax in Birmingham. Having LASIK with Wavefront and Femtosecond (uses laser to cut flap, no blade used at all). Top of the range as I want the best for my mince pies!!

Anyone been to this branch before. HAve put off having it for a few years but decided to go for it now as I have a little 9 month old girl who will no doubt want to go swimming with me on holidays etc.

[M-J]

What is a thread like this doing on a consumer forum? I'm glad to read some sensible posts at least.

Do not get laser eye surgery done because it is cheap. As an optometrist I've seen and heard of patients who have been abroad, had something done and now have problems. Who's there to sort you out now?

Laser eye surgery is exactly that; surgery. It may well be dumbed down as 'treatment' or a 'procedure', but it's an operation. Not only that it's an operation on possibly the most valuable organs in the body. Add to that an operation on a very specific part (the cornea) of those organs and you're looking at a high level of responsibility.

If I were to get laser eye surgery done I would find a consultant ophthalmologist with a specialist interest in corneal surgery. This is still relatively new technology so I'd rather trust my eyes with someone who sees corneal problems on a regular basis, not someone who does a bit of Lasik on the side to pay for the trip to the Bahamas every year.

[Bettyboop]

Hello All,

Im wondering if some of you can shed some insight into my questions about Laser Eye Surgery.

I am seriously thinking of binning the glasses and have a new pair of eyes. I cant seem to find anything £1000. The only companies I know of are Ultralase and Optimax. Are there others out there that have some good deals on the go? Are there voucher codes I could use to get it even cheaper.

Thanks.

[Nile]

Hello Bettyboop

Welcome to the MSE site.:wave:

Your thread will be better placed in the 'Health' board, so I'll move it across.

Hi, Martin’s asked me to post this in these circumstances: I’ve asked Board Guides to move threads if they’ll receive a better response elsewhere(please see this rule (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?p=1009335#post1009335)) so this post/thread has been moved to another board, where it should get more replies. If you have any questions about this policy please email abuse@moneysavingexpert.com (abuse@moneysavingexpert.com).

Regards

Nile

[choccyface2006]

I am sure that in one of Martin's programmes (Make me rich - I think) the lady wanted to cut her outgoings to pay for laser eye surgery and Martin suggested looking on Ebay (I know it sounds strange and I was sceptical)

Heres a Link. (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Laser-Eye-Surgery-Treatment-from-395-or-12-pm-x36mths_W0QQitemZ110077104753QQihZ001QQcategoryZ75 084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

Maybe worth checking it out?

Good luck (My OH had it 7 years ago and was amazed by the results!)

Sarah x

[abbecer]

Same advice here choccyface. I saw that too and couldn't quite believe that it would be on EBay.

Rebecca x

[Quackers]

I am sure that in one of Martin's programmes (Make me rich - I think) the lady wanted to cut her outgoings to pay for laser eye surgery and Martin suggested looking on Ebay (I know it sounds strange and I was sceptical)

Heres a Link. (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Laser-Eye-Surgery-Treatment-from-395-or-12-pm-x36mths_W0QQitemZ110077104753QQihZ001QQcategoryZ75 084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

Maybe worth checking it out?

Good luck (My OH had it 7 years ago and was amazed by the results!)

Sarah x

oooooooooooo, how cheap :)

I've just started looking into this and am considering having it done in the next few months. Anyone here bought off Ebay & got any comments? I'm a bit apprehensive but could be easily persuaded by some personal opinions/experiences. :)

[Quackers]

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=89895&highlight=laser+eye+surgery

I just found this if anyone else is interested in other comments :)

[fabwitch]

I had my eyes done with Opitimax my prescription was -8 so I was well and truly blind as a bat. My vision is now perfect and I cant praise Optimax enough. The Doctor who did my eyes\was fantastic and really made me feel at ease. It is the best £1000 I ever spent being able to wake up every morning and see clearly is amazing. I would highly recommend Optimax for their professional service and also do not do peoples eyes jus for the money. My Mumand a friend had appointments with Optimax and with my friend discovered during examimation they had a serieous eye problem and referred them admediately to Hospital and with my Mum they said her eyes were not suitable to have lazer treatment. This is very reasurring to know they are not just out to take your money but will only do the treatment if your eyes \are in good healthy condition and that you will benifit from the procedure.

[choccyface2006]

oooooooooooo, how cheap :)

I've just started looking into this and am considering having it done in the next few months. Anyone here bought off Ebay & got any comments? I'm a bit apprehensive but could be easily persuaded by some personal opinions/experiences. :)

Optimax have very good feedback on Ebay!

Sarah x

[pboae]

I also had a great experience with Optimax (though I didn't go through ebay). I also know 2 people they have refused to treat because their prescription was unsuitable. Which reassured me that they won't just treat anyone who turns up with the cash.

[pennylane99]

above poster reported to abuse for spamming the boards....

[katskorner]

I am planning to have Laser Surgery in the next 2 or 3 months and I am looking at Optimax as the main contender for doing my eyes. The price is £895 for epi-lasik with 4 to 5 day recovery, or £1290 for lasik with next day recovery. This is for both eyes. I am planning on going to the clinic in Birmingham. Has anyone any comments about this clinic or the deals presently available? I know Optimax are not presently offering any Interest-Free.

Thanks in advance..

[specsappeal]

had my eyes done with optimax (lasek) 3 years ago. Under corrected my right eye but didnt want to go through it all again. Still dont have to wear glasses which is great but there can be complications so look into it carefully.

[ljM]

Can anybody pleasetell me which is the best company to get your eyes lazered.
There are so many on the market now...
Thanks very much

LJ

[flier]

Hi,
I couldn't comment on whether or not they are the best, but I used Optimax in Glasgow and thought the service was excellent.
Feel free to ask me any questions.......

[dawnybabes]

I used Ultralase and thought they were brilliant - but likewise I can only comment on them .....

[dawnybabes]

I used Ultralase and thought they were brilliant - but likewise I can only comment on them .....

[Middlers]

I will follow this thread with interest as I would love to have laser correction although I did put my prescription into a website and I don't think they could do much for me so it would be interesting to hear from those that have had it done and what their prescriptions were.

[specsappeal]

both OH and I used optimax in Ipswich. However i found the customer service not very good. They forgot to give me painkillers and the surgeon had to come out and put the numbing eyedrops into my eyes again til the painkillers kicked in. (However i found out that my eyes are EXTREMELY sensitive to light and therefore i was slightly different to the norm)

[poochel]

I had mine done at Ultralase 2 months ago and I couldn't be happier. I had consultations at Optimax and Uultralase, and researched optical express and my local eye hospital before committing to a decision. You need to weigh up lots of different factors - cost, relative experience of surgeon, level of aftercare etc etc and find which is best for you. Sign up to all their websites and get the promotional material sent through.

Best thing to do would be to arrange for a consultation to find out whether you're suitable for surgery and if so, which one. (There are a few different types) Ultralase consultations are free and there's no sales pressure - its totally up to you to make the decision so what do you have to lose!?

As for cost, there is a moneysaving article on laser eye surgery here somewhere - I believe Optimax offer appointments through ebay at reduced cost. I signed up to ultralase website and got entered into their monthly draw and won quite a bit of money off my surgery. Was still pretty expensive though! But totally worth it.

My eyes were -6.75 with astigmatism before the surgery and now I have perfect vision. I know of people with far worse eysight than me that have had it corrected. It's not just about prescriptions though - it's about corneal thickness, pupil size, general health of the eyes, your lifestyle etc etc. That's why you need to go for a consultation.

Another EXCELLENT resource is the open forum at
http://www.lasereyeforum.com/forum/ - although it's hosted by ultralase it's totally open and you can discuss other providers there too. there are some extremely helpful people on there so I would suggest you post your questions up there!

Hope that's helpful

[LouBlue]

Can anybody pleasetell me which is the best company to get your eyes lazered.
There are so many on the market now...
Thanks very much

LJ

I went with Ultralase about 6 years ago. Best decision I ever made in my life, after 20 years of glasses and contact lens!!! :T

[ljM]

Everybody who has taken the time out to advise a BIG THANK YOU....

all comments welcome good or bad on any company offering this service....

Thanks again xxxxxxxxxx
LJ

[nomoneytoday]

Wherever you go, please don't decide on price, decide on service and whether or not the opto will actually talk to you. Also find out which machines they use etc :)

I had mine done in Harley Street - £1950 all in and went from -9 to -0.25 :)

[melancholly]

Wherever you go, please don't decide on price, decide on service and whether or not the opto will actually talk to you. Also find out which machines they use etc :)

I had mine done in Harley Street - £1950 all in and went from -9 to -0.25 :)
that's amazing - i'm -8.5 and have always been told that they can't get me back to anything reasonable (although admitedly the last time i checked was about 2 years ago).... can't afford it now, but it's something to consider!

[Glad]

Hi, Martin’s asked me to post this in these circumstances: I’ve asked Board Guides to move threads if they’ll receive a better response elsewhere (please see this rule (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?p=1009335#post1009335)) so this post/thread has been moved to another board, where it should get more replies. If you have any questions about this policy please email abuse@moneysavingexpert.com (abuse@moneysavingexpert.com).

[Glad]

Martin's advice on laser eye surgery can be found in this article HERE (http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/cgi-bin/viewnews.cgi?newsid1081710634,17595,#laser)

[happy chick]

i had mine done at moorfields eye hospital in london, which is where the technique was first inbtroduced into the country and undoubtably the best place to get it done - i wasn't prepared to take too much of a risk and, with eyesight of minus 9.75 and minus 10, had quite a difficult prescription.

This cost £2,700 5 years ago and having saved over £500 a year on glasses and contact lenses, not to mention completly changing my life, was well worth the money!!

[CCStar]

My prescription is -4.25 and -3.75 but I am getting older and wonder if I would need reading glasses if I had it done. I have the money, simply scared of it going wrong or still needing flipping glasses:(

[CCStar]

Duplicate - the glitch

[CCStar]

Sorry duplicate post

[LouBlue]

My prescription is -4.25 and -3.75 but I am getting older and wonder if I would need reading glasses if I had it done. I have the money, simply scared of it going wrong or still needing flipping glasses:(

My prescription was similar to yours when I had it done and its the best thing in the world not having to wear glasses or fiddle around with flaming contact lens! I know its a bit scary but I had it done 6 years ago...and it will have come on leaps and bounds even more by now!!! I went with Ultralase, have a look on their website.

[jojilufc]

Hi I used Optical EXpress last september. My prescription was -5.25 and -5. I now have better than 20/20 vision. I hummed and hahed for years b4 deciding to go for it, but eventually decided to go for it. I can honestly say it's the best thing I've ever done, love being able to see in the shower, at the swimming baths, at the gym... in fact anywhere.:D

Research it well, make a list of questions b4 you go and you should be ok.

Jo

[sandra uk]

Hi I used Optical EXpress last september. My prescription was -5.25 and -5. I now have better than 20/20 vision. I hummed and hahed for years b4 deciding to go for it, but eventually decided to go for it. I can honestly say it's the best thing I've ever done, love being able to see in the shower, at the swimming baths, at the gym... in fact anywhere.:D

Research it well, make a list of questions b4 you go and you should be ok.

Jo

hi going to morrow for to see about it any thing i should ask how much did you pay .Are they as good as the other companys like vision exspress i have spoke to a lot of people and they said they would not esitate they have been fine better vision now .Do they presure you as i will have to go home and talk to hubbie first thanks sandi

[geekgirl]

Hi, I want to know if people have had eye lazer treatment to correct their vision. (if there is a thread already could someone point me in its direction :cool2:)

Could you tell me where you had it done, prices and if you are happy you had it.

I am at the very beginning of my research about this. I want all the facts before I decide to go ahead.

Cheers.

[Nile]

Hello geekgirl

I'll move your thread to the 'Health & Beauty' board.

Hi, Martin’s asked me to post this in these circumstances: I’ve asked Board Guides to move threads if they’ll receive a better response elsewhere(please see this rule (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?p=1009335#post1009335)) so this post/thread has been moved to another board, where it should get more replies. If you have any questions about this policy please email abuse@moneysavingexpert.com (abuse@moneysavingexpert.com).

Regards

Nile

[dragon999]

Hi geekgirl, I had laser eye surgery. Was the best thing I ever did!
It was with Optimax, £60 consultation fee and £1000 for both eyes.
Well worth it. I had to wear sunglassess for about 6 months as it is normal to be light sensative for a while. Straight after the surgery I was long sighted for a few weeks til things settled down.
My advice - think about it, decide for yourself and make sure you take your eyedrops treatment. :j

[Ted_Hutchinson]

Previous threads (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?searchid=9251756)

Study Compares LASIK And LASEK Eye Surgery (http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=59689)

LASIK For Older Adults (http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=68302)

NICE Issues Guidance On Laser Eye Surgery For Treating Refractive ... (http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=40089)

But also read Drug-resistant Bacterial Infections Serious Complication After ... (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/04/070410091413.htm)

[bandraoi]

Hey,
Asked this at the end of a previous thread
http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=89895&highlight=lazer+eye
but I think it's gotten so long that some posts are out of date.

I'm interested in the answer to this question too, especially for people who have fairly high prescriptions - mine is -5D to -6D.

[dragon999]

Hi bandraoi,

my prescription was -5 / -6 ( i am now 20/20 vision)
hope this helps.

[MARTIMAN]

Wife had hers done 5 yrs ago with optimax, she was left with her right eye being 20 20 vision & left eye .50-, which she said wasnt a problem. Unfortunately her eyes have become quite sensitive & most days they get very watery, & this last yr she said her vision is not as good as it was when she 1st had it done,only slightly worse & she can still do without glasses.

[Delilah]

my husband had his eyes done 18 months ago with ultralase £3000 (both eyes). We tried other places Optical Express £600 (both eyes) and Harley Street £2500 (both eyes). They both turned him down his vision was like 4.75 and 5.00 he couldn't see his hand in front of his face without his contacts. He could read the chart the same day and was driving the next day. He had the type where they don't slice your eye, just did the laser. He has had no problems what so ever (touch wood). I would highly recommend Ultralase in Guilford.

[dragon999]

Don't forget what you were first told before surgery, you will not have 20/20 vision as you go through life (age gets to us all....sob!) the surgery corrects your vision error for the here and now but your eyes will still age with you.
I had it as a fix for severe short sightedness and am happy with the results but I may need glasses when I get many candles on my birthday cake.
Hope this helps everyone that asked me. I had my surgery done 4 years ago and am very happy with the results.

[Clara_Pereira]

Hi My sister is having laser eye surgery on 7th May (Monday) she is having it done in Portugal under their state system like the NHS. Her eyes are about -3/4 in both eyes and she has astigmatism. She will be having one eye done on Monday and the other in a couple of months time. She has been told she shouldn't drive for a while as a precausion and that her eyes would be more sensitive, therefore she should wear some sunglasses for a while. If you would like more info I will let you know after Monday. I too have been thinking about having it done, but as my eyes are so bad -5.75 and -7.45 I am a little scared. If all goes well with my sister I may pluck up the courage and have it done too, unfortunately our NHS is not as generous and we have to go private which is a big expense. All the best

[specsappeal]

Hi there,
both my husband and i had surgery with optimax in 2003. Got it for free as we were filmed by the press. My husband had no problems whatsoever but i had a few. my right eye was under corrected but i can still see without glasses and although they offered to re do it i just couldn't face it again. I also found out that i am extra sensitive to light and had to have more anethestic after the procedure as the pain was unbearable (although after 4 hours it was fine). My night vision was completely shot for the first year and a half and even now i still have problems at dusk and when its dark.
However - it is great to be able to see all the time (no steaming up of glasses etc) and on the whole i am happy with the result. The procedure itself is completely painless by the way!

[bandraoi]

Don't know how much use this will be to you all, but if any of you have close relatives living and paying the higher rate of tax in Ireland.

If they pay for you to have the treatment, they can claim it against the higher rate of tax (it essentially knocks 20% off the price).

To claim it (or any other medical expense) there is just a form to fill in.

[saraht]

I am considering having laser eye surgery with Lasik and wavefront. I have had a consultation and been told I am likely to get good results. I have not looked at the very cheapest options feeling that with something as important as my sight I would rather pay more for a very experienced surgeon with a lower complication rate and better aftercare.

I would like to hear from people who have had the laser surgery, please can you tell me whether you were glad you made the decision, did you still need to wear glasses afterwards, and anything else worth knowing :)

Thanks, Sarah

[iubita31]

Hi, yes I had it done a couple of years ago and I have absolutely no regrets at all. I had LASEK as opposed to LASIK which takes about a week to recover from. I have not needed to wear any glasses since having it done or anything, nor have I had any nightvision problems. The only thing is sometimes my eyes get a bit dry, but that is the only downside.
Its worth looking at all places to have it done, not just the expensive ones. Because at the time I worked for the NHS the place I went to were offering it at halfprice for NHS workers so i got mine done for about £560 for both eyes (same prices as two pairs of glasses!). Bargain.Saves money on glasses, contacts, cleaning solutions and hassle!

:j

[kittykate]

Hi, yes I had it done a couple of years ago and I have absolutely no regrets at all. I had LASEK as opposed to LASIK which takes about a week to recover from. I have not needed to wear any glasses since having it done or anything, nor have I had any nightvision problems. The only thing is sometimes my eyes get a bit dry, but that is the only downside.
Its worth looking at all places to have it done, not just the expensive ones. Because at the time I worked for the NHS the place I went to were offering it at halfprice for NHS workers so i got mine done for about £560 for both eyes (same prices as two pairs of glasses!). Bargain.Saves money on glasses, contacts, cleaning solutions and hassle!

:j

Hiya,
Could I ask where this was? I work for the NHS at the moment and want LASEK eye surgery. Would be fantastic if I could get it for half price - would mean that I could pay it all instead of going for the monthly payment scheme!
Also, this might sound strange but I am worried that I will get black eyes after having it done with them proddling round in my eyes!! Do you?
KKx

[The President]

Just a Q?

Is it true that Age related poor sight cannot be successfully rectified this way?

I am over 45 and am LONg sighted with 20/10 vision and HATE glasses.

[JennyW]

Just a Q?

Is it true that Age related poor sight cannot be successfully rectified this way?

I am over 45 and am LONg sighted with 20/10 vision and HATE glasses.

I'm 40 and for the past couple of years have thought about surgery. However my optician has rightly pointed out that in time your eyes will start to deteriorate (with age) and you will end up wear glasses in the end.

There are still however risks and a risk that it wont be 100% successful and you will still have to wear glasses - for this reason I wont get it done

[Toots]

I had laser surgery for shortsight but iwtwas over 10 years ago so I had something called PRK.

Everything was fine but over the past couple of years my vision has changed and one eye has started to get shortsighted again whilst the other has become longsighted (probably age-related). As a result I have monocular vision where the two don't work together but each compensates for the other.

I'm thinking of having them re-done as I loved having perfect sight after so many years wearing contact lenses.

kittykate - No, you definitely don't get black eyes!

[saraht]

I have decided to go ahead with it and booked in for August. Thanks for your re3plies. I have been told that even after surgery everyone will go long sighted and need reading glasses at some point and I am fine with this. I just hate having to wear glasses ALL the time, which I now do as I have an astigmatism and shortsightednness so can't see near or far at all well!Jenny- the likelihood that you will still need glasses after the surgery partly depends on what your prescription is now- after my consultation tests I was told with my prescription I am 90-95% likely to have vision good enough to not need to wear glasses for driving, I am prepared to take that chance but wouldn't if it was much lower.

[poochel]

saraht can i suggest that you go on to this chat forum http://www.lasereyeforum.com/forum/ .

although hosted by ultralase, it is totally independent and there are loads of really helpful, knowledgeable people on there, plus lots of newbies like yourself who are wondering whether to take the plunge. i posted there a lot when I was considering whether or not to go for it and it was an amazing resource in terms of the science bits, the practical bits and talking through peoples fears.

(i had LASIK last november, went from -6.75 with astigmatism in both eyes to better than 20/20 vision with absolutely no problems at all)

hope that helps

[Nicki]

Hiya,
Could I ask where this was? I work for the NHS at the moment and want LASEK eye surgery. Would be fantastic if I could get it for half price - would mean that I could pay it all instead of going for the monthly payment scheme!
Also, this might sound strange but I am worried that I will get black eyes after having it done with them proddling round in my eyes!! Do you?
KKx

Good grief, Kittykate. You've just had a thread completely deleted in which there was reference to the many jobs you have said have. There you said you worked for a telecoms company employed by the government and did graphic design in your spare time! How many jobs do you hold simultaneously, and surely if you are working for the NHS your employers should be well versed in spotting inconsistencies in medical excuses?

[dawnybabes]

I had my eyes done @ Ultralase 8 years ago (was -2.00 & -2.25) just had my eyes retested and I am now +.25 in one eye, normal in the other eye. I was told at the time I would eventually need glasses, never regreted having it done and never had any problems.

Good luck whatever you decide.

[Stompa]

Is it true that Age related poor sight cannot be successfully rectified this way?

That's what I was told.

[kittykate]

Good grief, Kittykate. You've just had a thread completely deleted in which there was reference to the many jobs you have said have. There you said you worked for a telecoms company employed by the government and did graphic design in your spare time! How many jobs do you hold simultaneously, and surely if you are working for the NHS your employers should be well versed in spotting inconsistencies in medical excuses?


are you having a laugh?! I have never in my life claimed to have worked for a telecoms company and believe me, I can't design naff all so I wouldn't be a graphics designer!!! What you on about?! And what you mean medical excuses? I was just asking if you get bruises on your eyes cos they peel your eyelids back etc and I didn't want to have it done and then to work with a pair of shiners!!!! If you did get black eyes then I would book the week off!!!
What is this person on about?!?!?!!?!?

[Nicki]

are you having a laugh?! I have never in my life claimed to have worked for a telecoms company and believe me, I can't design naff all so I wouldn't be a graphics designer!!! What you on about?! And what you mean medical excuses? I was just asking if you get bruises on your eyes cos they peel your eyelids back etc and I didn't want to have it done and then to work with a pair of shiners!!!! If you did get black eyes then I would book the week off!!!
What is this person on about?!?!?!!?!?

Huge apologies! Misunderstanding cleared up by PM between us. There are two people posting with this username (the other uses a capital K though!) and it is she, not this user, who had posted on, and subsequently then deleted a controversial thread on another board, which many users found very offensive. When I saw this thread I jumped to the unworthy conclusion that the nasty KK was trying to wangle a discount to which she wasn't entitled as well as otherwise winding people up.

As I know nothing about laser eye surgery, except I too would like to have it, I'll beetle off with my tail between my legs, and leave you in peace!

[kittykate]

Huge apologies! Misunderstanding cleared up by PM between us. There are two people posting with this username (the other uses a capital K though!) and it is she, not this user, who had posted on, and subsequently then deleted a controversial thread on another board, which many users found very offensive. When I saw this thread I jumped to the unworthy conclusion that the nasty KK was trying to wangle a discount to which she wasn't entitled as well as otherwise winding people up.

As I know nothing about laser eye surgery, except I too would like to have it, I'll beetle off with my tail between my legs, and leave you in peace!

Thanks Nicki! :) Easily done! :cool: I've PMed admin asking to change my name so as not to cause any confusion again to anyone.

Anyways, back on track. Does anyone know about the nhs discount? I might be changing jobs soon and if I can get half off whilst I still work in my current job then that's a very good MSE thing if you ask me!!! (Is that naughty? - cashing in on the discount before i leave, plus - the eye surgery is for a new job - does that make it naughtier??)

kk xxx

[Doozergirl]

kk thye don't peel your eyelids back, they cut the cornea, the protective film over your actual eye and flip that back!

No idea about the NHS discount.

[leftieM]

Don't know how much use this will be to you all, but if any of you have close relatives living and paying the higher rate of tax in Ireland.

If they pay for you to have the treatment, they can claim it against the higher rate of tax (it essentially knocks 20% off the price).

To claim it (or any other medical expense) there is just a form to fill in.

If you're still out there banderoi, have you any more info on this? Do you have to get the work done in ROI or can it be done in UK (if cheaper)?
I have loads of well paid family in ROI. I'd love to have the surgery done and 20% is a fair bit!

[longbaygirl]

Had mine done by Optimax 5 years ago, just under £1k for both eyes. Was -5 in each eye before and could not even see the clock on waking in the morning.

Best thing I ever did. My only regret was not having it done 10 years earlier. Have 20/20 vision and could see well straight after the proceedure, but it just got better and better.

Go for it.

[Georgie Porgy]

Had mine done about 10 -11 years ago at Optimax. Each eye done 6 months apart. Cost £395 per eye plus £25 per eye consultation fee. Used to be -7.5 and -7 diopters and went to 20:20 vision for quite a number of years. They have since changed though and are -1.75 and +0.50 so I have been getting along fine with monocular vision. However I have just been advised to wear a lens in the eye that is -1.75 so am looking into having laser surgery again this month.

I had PRK all those years ago but will have to see what type I can have.

[Toots]

Does anyone know how much they charge at Optical Express for laser treatment? I've had a look at their website and it just states a 'from' price but it doesn't say how much it costs for the different types (LASIK, LASEK, Wavefront).

I'm thinking of going for wavefront as I get halos around the vision in my left eye at night. I only need to have one of my eyes done as the other has good vision (don't ask me why!).

Anyone used them and can give price details?

[pipmoss]

Hi guys my oh is considering laser eye treatment.

Can anyone recommend a company in Manchester which specialises in thie treatment.?

:beer: :beer: :beer:

[jannyannie]

Hi
Don,t know if Optimax have a clinic in Manchester, they did mine and I am delighted.:j

[susi]

I have read through the threads on here about eye surgery and to be honest Im totally confused. I am ready now to have this done in the near future. There seems to be pro's and cons with them all. Has any one specialist come out tops?????? Are the cheaper ones to be avoided?????
Any help appriciated

[Nile]

Hello susi

I'll move your thread to the 'Health & Beauty' board.

Hi, Martin’s asked me to post this in these circumstances: I’ve asked Board Guides to move threads if they’ll receive a better response elsewhere(please see this rule (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?p=1009335#post1009335)) so this post/thread has been moved to another board, where it should get more replies. If you have any questions about this policy please email abuse@moneysavingexpert.com (abuse@moneysavingexpert.com).

Regards

Nile

[shezzy]

I had mine done a year ago and i went to optical express, no problems and wish i had done it earlier. I picked the best, laser with wavefront because i did'nt want to risk getting it done cheaply and ruining my eyesight forever!
Best thing to do is go for a consultation and then decide on the decision they advise.
Good luck and email me a private message if you have any questions about the procedure.:j

shezzy

[katskorner]

I had mine done in March this year. I went with Optimax and was advised to have Epi-Lasek with Wavefront as this was more suitable for more eyes and safer than Lasik as there is not cutting flaps in your eye. I have excellent vision now and do not regret going through with it.

Yes it was painful about and hour ofter I had it done, for 48 hours, but this was all. It was a small price to pay for perfect vision. I still have to use drops now as my eyes are still healing and I have to go for another check in a couple of weeks.

I got an appointment through Optimax on Ebay and saved £700 on the treatment - I had both eyes done.

I would highly recommend them. I had mine done at the Birmingham clinic.

[susi]

Thank you both, Im pleased your surgeries were a success. I had made my mind up to have it done then read the threads on here and there are some not so good ones. I ended up just confused again. I wear glasses for distance but dont need them for close up, hence I am forever taking them off and loosing them!!!! I will go check ebay out to see if there is anything on there.
Thanks again x:beer:

[Poppy9]

OH is considering have surgery to correct his long sightedness. Where does he start in finding out which procedures are safest, which clinics to use etc?

[Toots]

Sorry pressed 'Thanks' button by mistake.

Look up information on the web - Optimax and Optical express have good information on their websites.

I had laser surgery over 10 years ago but for short sight at Optimax and customer care there was very good. However one eye has deteriorated and so I am having it re-done at Optical Express on 6th September. Although I've booked and paid my deposit I haven't been that impressed with customer care so far. I asked specifically about side effects and the Optometrist told me they are so few these days with modern lasers. When I got home I found the literature listed side effects that were a bit scary - I would have preferred them to go through the effects in person to allay my fears. The optometrist also criticised Optimax and said they use lasers that are four years old whereas theirs are brand new. This didn't impress me either as I don't think it's good top slag off the opposition. Probably just the individual Optometrist at fault there though.

Still, as she isn't the one doing the surgery I'm still going with them but I will make them aware of the things I have been a little disappointed with (I'm sure I'll have a questionnaire to fill in about my treatment).

[davetrousers]

I am sure Martin Lewis himself has done an article on this himself.

The article recommends ebay (sounds odd at first) but it says that a lot of clinics use ebay to sell remaining empty appointments.

[chloebelle]

I had laser surgery done about 2 years ago - best thing I ever did!:j

First step, investigate if there are any clinics near you, there aren't many in the country so you may have a problem.

Most important thing is go for a consultation - any clinic worth considering should offer you one free. This was really important for me, gave me a chance to assess the staff and building to see if I felt comfortable enough to let them operate.

Knowledge is power! Read all the literature available, search the internet for comments and opinions and ask lots of questions at the clinic.

I had mine done at optimax in Guildford, Very impressed and extremely happy. I researched the procedure for about 6 months before the operation so felt very confident and not fearful at all.

If you go for it, be prepared for at least 2 weeks recovery afterwards. Very few people wake up the next day with perfect vision!! I had to wear sunglasses for 7 days and it took a further 2-3 weeks for my vision to stabilise.

I could drone on forever about laser surgery, please ask me if you want more info.

[Poppy9]

Thanks for the info Chloe. OH has made contact with one company per Martin's blog.

It may be of interest to others who are long sighted but OH told that even with surgery he will still need glasses for reading as his prescription is over 3+ which is the limit for 100% correction of long-sightedness. However the reading prescription glasses that OH will need will be what a normal person of that age will need i.e. +1. OH is going to go ahead after a bit more research as he will be free of glasses/contacts for the majority of time.

There is one company that say they can fully correct 4+ by doing the surgery in stages but don't know how risky this is.

[kellz123]

Has anyone here had laser eye surgery? I am considering lasik (http://www.docshop.com/education/vision/refractive/lasik/) very soon so I can eliminate the use of my eye glasses and contacts.

[Toots]

Feeling pretty mad right now. My Wavefront Lasik was planned for this morning at Optical Express in Birmingham. I only needed to have one eye done which had regressed following having PRK to both eyes around 10 years ago.

I was really psyched up for it and when I saw the surgeon he told me he wouldn't have it done if it was me and that I won't get enough benefits from it to justify having it done. I have monovision and he reckons lots of people have laser surgery to get their eyes like mine.

Well I guess that's saved me £995 but I wish the Optometrist had conducted a proper consultation 3 weeks ago and not wasted my time. My hubby has wasted a day off to look after me too.

Oh well, guess I'll head to the shops and buy shoes with some of my 'saving'.

[Spikey]

i'm glad this thread has been of some use to people on here.....:)

[babydaisy]

My friend has just had it done at the Manchester Eye Hospital and has persuaded me to go for it as well

http://www.centre-for-vision.com/

She was delighted with the service and the aftercare and it's the place where they deal with any problems from the private clinics as well so you've got the best surgeons available if you should have any complications

I am now plucking up the courage to book myself in!! Scary but I hate wearing my glasses so it would be a complete liberation to be able to see without them

[ry111]

Ive had my consultation at optimax with my precription being R-8.75 and L-5 and ive been reffered to london clinic. With having large pupils if im successfull i will have to go for a wave front or the laser implant for the Right eye and it can cost me around £3000. Has anyone payed a large amount like this?

[katskorner]

I had wavefront on both eyes with epi-lasek - it cost me £1090 inc consultation and aftercare. My prescription was nowhere near as bad as yours though.

[gemsurf2]

The Great Laser Eye Surgery Hunt thread was in Shop But Don't Drop, but as this offer runs out soon thought this should also appear in Health & Beauty.

This excellent offer is with Optimax (if you live near or don't mind travelling to Aberdeen!).

Just at the Aberdeen clinic until 30 November you can have both eyes treated for the price of one.
http://http://www.optimax.co.uk/Default.aspx?page=6881 (http://http//www.optimax.co.uk/Default.aspx?page=6881)

You would need to find out if your aftercare consultations could be done at any of their other clinics if you aren't local to Aberdeen. But Lasik treatment for two eyes for £895 is fantastic.

It is first come first served and you will need to quote the offer reference 'Aberdeen Half Price 03/07' :cool:

[gemsurf2]

If the link doesn't work go to www.optimax.co.uk (http://www.optimax.co.uk), click on Treatment Costs, then click on Special Offers.

[susi]

I have been seriously thinking of having this done, just tried looking up the old threads on it but unfortunately they arent there anymore. I am undecided about the best procedure, is the intralase option worth the extra £300 per eye, is there a great difference between that and the Lasik????

[susi]

I am thinking of taking the Optimax offer of Lasik surgery (both eyes for £895) but was thinking of paying the extra £300 per eye for intralase. I would need to have both my consultation and surgery on the same day and will have to travel a fair way to get there. I have been told that very often when you have your consultation the price rises from what you have been quoted and quite honestly dont want to travel all that way if the price is going to go sky high. Has anyone had this happen? Any advice would be welcome as to qualify for this price I would need to have the surgery done before the end of November.

[joella]

I had laser eye surgery at optical express, cost £1400, a lot higher than the advertisement when I questioned this I was told that the price advertised was for the minimum perscrition, anyway had surgery 2 weeks after consultation and was well worth the money. Would have it done again if needed. a little uncomfortable on the day but a lot better after sleeping.

[specsappeal]

just to add - i had my eyes done at optimax 4 years ago and it isnt just one visit and its all done. i had to go back after 7 days then again after 10 days. also they undercorrected one eye and i ended going back every month for 4 months to see if it would get any better. they offered to repeat the procedure on my right eye again (i declined). you have to go back for the follow ups so please be aware that it wont just be one trip and thats all.

[donteatthat]

There's a new machine available now which surpasses the lasik/lasek machines with far better correction rates and far fewer post-operative complications.
Its a wavefront laser called zyoptix by bausch and lomb but from £1700 per eye. I guess that its the reason why suddenly the prices have dropped for the other lasers.

[tomstickland]

A friend of mine said to me the other day "how many opticians do you know who have had laser eye surgery?".

[Poppy9]

Do you have to take special care of your eyes for any period after the laser surgery? OH is tempted but as he is a police officer there is a possibilty of him getting hit in or near the eye. He is planning to just take a weeks leave after the surgery (if he has it). Is this enough time?

[tomstickland]

I did some research on the web last week and they reported that the lasik flap possibly never fully heals in one direction and can break when subject to impact years later.

[point3]

I did some research on the web last week and they reported that the lasik flap possibly never fully heals in one direction and can break when subject to impact years later.

This is true of any scar. No scar is 100% as strong as virgin tissue.

The corneal flap will "stick down" within 2-3 days, but may take 6 months or more for optimal healing to occur.

General advice is to avoid rubbing the eyes, any swimming or contact sports for 1 week after the surgery. After that, physical activities may be cautiously re-introduced.

Shearing off of the flap can occur after trauma months after the original surgery, but it is true to say that such trauma is likely to produce a significant injury to the eye even if surgery had not been performed.

[JennyW]

A friend of mine said to me the other day "how many opticians do you know who have had laser eye surgery?".

this is my feeling too. I've been wearing contacts for years but very wary of having laser surgery. I aired my concerns with my optician last year and she still feels not enough time has been given to see if there are any long-term side effects. All the opticians where I go wear glasses :cool:

My SIL had her eyes done but when driving at night, she has to wear glasses - something to do with headlights and the night - not sure what it is but it's pretty standard. Plus over time and with age, our eyes will continue to degenerate so glasses will probably still be required, even for reading.

I still feel it's a bit of a lottery. I'd be scared of being one of those people where it doesn't work properly :eek:

[point3]

this is my feeling too. I've been wearing contacts for years but very wary of having laser surgery. I aired my concerns with my optician last year and she still feels not enough time has been given to see if there are any long-term side effects. All the opticians where I go wear glasses :cool:

My SIL had her eyes done but when driving at night, she has to wear glasses - something to do with headlights and the night - not sure what it is but it's pretty standard. Plus over time and with age, our eyes will continue to degenerate so glasses will probably still be required, even for reading.

I still feel it's a bit of a lottery. I'd be scared of being one of those people where it doesn't work properly :eek:

There's a flaw to that argument. :D

Optician = one who fits glasses (not medically trained)
Optometrist = doctor who carries out routine eye examinations
Ophthalmologist = doctor (surgeon) specialising in conditions of the eye

The optician doesn't want to lose all his customers by recommending eye surgery, does he?

[emmaroids]

i thought about having this done, until i saw how its done :eek:

Y-TUMw1FTmY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-TUMw1FTmY)

warning, its nasty

[JennyW]

There's a flaw to that argument. :D

Optician = one who fits glasses (not medically trained)
Optometrist = doctor who carries out routine eye examinations
Ophthalmologist = doctor (surgeon) specialising in conditions of the eye

The optician doesn't want to lose all his customers by recommending eye surgery, does he?

ok a bit picky but the optometrist (there are 2 where I go) both wear glasses

[tomstickland]

Some google searching
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2001-06-28-lasik.htm#more

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0846/is_8_21/ai_83911029

Whether the possibility of multiple surgeries -- and a less-than-perfect outcome -- is a risk worth taking is something prospective LASIK patients must decide for themselves -- preferably, doctors say, well before they have surgery. "Enhancements are part of the procedure," Kornmehl cautions. "I always tell patients if an enhancement sounds unpalatable to you, don't have the procedure to begin with because somebody is going to fall into these numbers. The numbers don't come out of nowhere. They're based on real people."

A forum for those affected by surgery complications
http://visionsurgeryrehab.evecommunity.com/eve/forums/a/frm/f/6541031211

http://www.lasiksucks4u.com/

etc, I've yet to read the detailed info.

[Horace]

How any one would want to have laser eye surgery is beyond me. They do it at the eye hospital in Birmingham but it is purely for medical reasons not vanity.

Contact lenses can scar the eye too and the eye becomes misshapen - I used to wear contacts but now I have glaucoma and uveitis which means no more contact lens wearing. I wear glasses and because of the glaucoma don't drive at night because the lights really affect my eyes and cause a form of blindness.

Stick to wearing glasses - there are some lovely styles around now and in any case if you need to have thick lenses you can always pay for thinner ones.

[tomstickland]

This one is interesting:
http://users.tns.net/~equity/lasiksos/#Eye Pain


To perform LASIK, the surgeon uses a high power pulsed Laser -- that Vaporizes Corneal Tissue at the Rate of 7.5 Cubic Inches per Second.
Would you stare at the sun ? I hope not.
Would you stare at an Ultraviolet radiation source that is at least 38% -- or 84% -- brighter than the sun, ON AVERAGE ? That's what the LASIK surgeon is asking you to do.
According to the specifications that Bausch & Lomb, and VISX, have given to the FDA, their ophthalmic lasers -- the lasers used during laser eye surgery -- have a "fluence", respectively, of .774 and 1.032 watts per square inch. (References 1, 2, 3)
At sea level, on a very, very bright day, as much as .56 watts per square inch reaches the skin - or eyes - of the person laying in the sun at the beach. (Reference 4)
In other words, it is typical, during laser eye surgery, to stare at a radiation source which is brighter than the sun. The sun emits "broadband radiation" -- in the infra-red, visible, and ultraviolet spectrums. The laser used in laser eye surgery emits mostly 193 "nanometer" radiation. Ultraviolet, C Band, radiation. The kind of radiation which the atmosphere filters out. The kind of radiation we seek protection from when we put "SPF 30" sun-block on our skin, or "UV-protected" sunglasses on our eyes.
Is the human cornea vulnerable to damage from Ultraviolet radiation ? Yes it is, as described below. The first step in collecting this information is a simple web-search using the terms "Ultraviolet Radiation Burn Eye".
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&q=ultraviolet+radiation+burn+eye
Both the Bausch & Lomb ophthalmic laser and the VISX laser are "pulsed" ultraviolet lasers. The Bausch & Lomb Technolas 217 is "on" for .000000225 seconds, or .000000900 seconds, out of every second. The VISX Star S2 is "on" for .000000100 seconds, out of every second. In engineering terms, this relates to what is what is known as "duty cycle".
During a typical laser eye surgery, a section of corneal tissue 8 millimeters in diameter, 80 microns thick, is removed. First, let's translate that into English units: 8 millimeters = 8 x .03937 inches = .315 inches -- about a third of an inch. 80 microns = .080 x .03937 inches = .00315 inches -- about the thickness of a piece of 20-weight Xerox paper. And the ophthalmic laser is on, at most, .000000900 seconds out of every second. (Reference 2)
To get an idea of the power of this laser -- it's ability to slice through Flesh, Blood, and Bone -- let us ask a simple question: what would happen if the patient was exposed to a radiation source of this intensity, and it was continuous, not pulsed ? To make the calculations easier, and more conservative, let's round the duty cycle off, from .00000090, to .000001. A duty cycle of one-millionth. If this radiation source were left on continuously, for the duration of a typical laser eye surgery performed on just one eye, it would vaporize approximately this much soft tissue: a volume about 10 inches in diameter. 3.15 inches deep. Tapered around the edges. In less than a minute. (Reference 5)
That's a powerful laser. If it were left on continuously, it would photo-ablate a volume of soft tissue (eye tissue and brain tissue, for example) about the size of an adult human's head -- in under a minute. In short, the Bausch & Lomb, VISX, Nidek, and Summit/LADAR-Vision Ophthalmic lasers used to perform laser eye surgery are not just pulsed ultraviolet lasers. They are high-powered, pulsed, ultraviolet lasers.
Many of the laser eye surgery patients with whom I have spoken describe 2 specific symptoms: A foreign-body sensation in the eye, and a painful sensitivity to bright lights. Both of these are treated topically, and temporarily, by applying eye-drops, and by wearing sunglasses. Many laser eye surgery patients -- even patients with "positive outcomes" -- in fact, have these 2 symptoms during the early post-op period, and then the symptoms diminish over time, as the tissue of and around the eye heals from the trauma of the surgery. For some, the symptoms do not attenuate, over time. For some, the symptoms escalate, over time. I find that my own symptoms fall in this latter category. 5 years, and 2 month2, at the time of this writing.
Following are the symptoms described by an occupational safety health organization in Canada - the symptoms associated with the use of an arc-welder which emits significant amounts of Ultraviolet-C band radiation. The symptoms are identical to the symptoms experienced by many LASIK patients, and identical to the symptoms experienced by some LASIK patients. What do these 2 groups of people -- arc welders and LASIK patients -- have in common ? Exposure to extreme amounts of ultraviolet radiation.
* pain - ranging from a mild feeling of pressure in the eyes to intense pain in severe instances
* tearing and reddening of the eye and membranes around the eye
* sensation of "sand in the eye" or abnormal sensitivity to light, and
* inability to look at light sources (photophobia)." (References 6, 7, 8, 9) And, what does the occupational safety health organization in Canada recommend for persons who used insufficient eye protection while operating an arc-welder ? Eye-drops.

[tomstickland]

The more I read then the more I'd advise anyone to do their homework rather than assuming it's just a "shopping mall" procedure.
Many of the risks/side effects are well known:
http://www.operationauge.com/lasik-safety-knowledge.html

Images:
http://www.operationauge.com/images-lasik-lasek-prk.html

[tomstickland]

http://www.scq.ubc.ca/?p=144
Fortunately, complications occur in less than one percent of operations and minor complications such as dry eye and halos usually resolve themselves in a few months as the cornea fully heals.[11] Over- or under-correction is the number one complaint among patients; however, when interviewing patients, these complaints were usually the result of expecting too much from the surgery.

Very few patients experience infection-related difficulties which are usually due to improper sterilizing techniques in the clinic; overall, infections make up less than 1 percent of complications. Even though both techniques are very similar, patients are usually more satisfied with LASIK than PRK at 90 and 52 percent respectively

All three laser refractive surgery techniques appear to obtain satisfactory results with a very low number of complications. However, this does not mean that the operation is to be taken lightly. It is important to note that the FDA only approves the use of a laser for a particular application; they do not monitor the techniques used. Many of the complaints can be attributed to errors within individual clinics. Concern has been expressed over the “bargain basement” clinics that guarantee 20/20 vision for low, low prices. To make up the cost these clinics may cut corners which could involve using older equipment and sterilization techniques.

There is a lack of long-term studies focused on the performance and potential risks of refractive surgery. One study reported stability in PRK-treated eyes 12 years after treatment. [10] A more recent study however, has shown that the age degeneration of eyesight over 5 years was greater than normally expected in LASIK treated patients

Thus far, there are no studies that have investigated the relationship between laser refractive surgery and cataract formation. It is possible that insufficient time has passed since the first surgeries for an accurate study correlating cataract formation after laser refractive surgery.

A UK forum
http://www.lasik-eyes.co.uk/forum/forum_topics.asp?FID=9

[tomstickland]

http://www.lasik-eyes.co.uk/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=866&PN=1
if i make a post on their forum, even just stating facts, it gets removed. Im hoping this one will be left alone so that anyone considering surgery can see that it does go wrong.

[tomstickland]

Last one for now
had LASIK treatment 18 months ago (Optimax) and shortly afterwarIds noticed onset of many floaters in my left eye. I went to my Doctor who sent me to the Western Eye clinic at Marleybone. As Chris says floaters could be a symptom of PVD (Viterous detachment ) or more serious (Retina detachment). I was diagnosed with former. I have done a lot of research including second opinions from other Surgeons e.g. Dr. O' Brart at St Thomas's Hospital. There is a theory that the suction ring they use for LASIK can induce a PVD (some sites even list PVD as a LASIK complication) but the evidence is inconclusive.
http://www.lasik-eyes.co.uk/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=856&PN=1

[Poppy9]

How any one would want to have laser eye surgery is beyond me. They do it at the eye hospital in Birmingham but it is purely for medical reasons not vanity.

Contact lenses can scar the eye too and the eye becomes misshapen - I used to wear contacts but now I have glaucoma and uveitis which means no more contact lens wearing. I wear glasses and because of the glaucoma don't drive at night because the lights really affect my eyes and cause a form of blindness.

Stick to wearing glasses - there are some lovely styles around now and in any case if you need to have thick lenses you can always pay for thinner ones.

My OH finds glasses impractical in his job. If out on patrol and it's raining, which it often is in Wales, hard to see out of. If chasing criminals or trying to apprehend them then they can fall or be knocked off. He usually wears contact lenses when working but they are prone to irritating his eyes.

He has spoken to friends who've had the surgery and they are all so pleased they've gone ahead with it. OH is long-sighted (+4.5 & +3.75) and they will only be able to correct his vision to a certain point. He may still need reading glasses but they will be much weaker and what you would expect for his age.

[tomstickland]

The literature suggests that around 1-5% of people suffer complications, so that could be a 1:20 probability. Personally I wouldn't risk it.
A few friends isn't a large enough sample.

[tomstickland]

This is true of any scar. No scar is 100% as strong as virgin tissue.

The corneal flap will "stick down" within 2-3 days, but may take 6 months or more for optimal healing to occur.

General advice is to avoid rubbing the eyes, any swimming or contact sports for 1 week after the surgery. After that, physical activities may be cautiously re-introduced.

Shearing off of the flap can occur after trauma months after the original surgery, but it is true to say that such trauma is likely to produce a significant injury to the eye even if surgery had not been performed.
I think that's a rather optimistic view, compared with some of the reports out there.
. In April, 2007, researchers reported, "The LASIK flap once cut may contribute little to the mechanical stability of the cornea and probably never completely adheres to the underlying stromal bed..."

I'm still trying to find the best resource on the internet. This is a good one though:
http://thelasikflap.com/

And this
http://thelasikreport.com/TheLasikReport_Aug2006.pdf

[susi]

Thanks for all the info. I have a friend who had this done earlier this year and he thinks it was well worth the money but I can see there are many who arent so lucky (although I must admit I havent read them all) Lots to think about???????????

[tomstickland]

I spoke to a woman at work who had a long talk with her optician about it. She said that he said that he only uses one surgeon, and the surgeon is very selective about who he'll operate on. It works well on simple cases, but there is a risk of well documented side effects.
So it looks like a case of doing the research properly.

[babydaisy]

Just wanted to add that I have now had this done - a week ago. Opted for the one where they don't cut your cornea as didn't fancy anything invasive so it was 10 seconds per eye of the lazer and sent home to bed.

I had a bit of discomfort but they give you painkillers and tell you to go to bed for the day and sleep which i did (at my mums in my old bed and had a blissful weekend eating chocs and resting in a warm comfy bed)

Now a week later there is no pain or discomfort or dryness and my vision is improving daily. I can walk about and function without my glasses but can't drive yet - it can take up to 6 weeks for your vision to adjust itself to the stage where you can drive.

I had it done at the Manchester Eyes Hospital and saw my consultant each time, had two hours of photos etc before the surgery to programme the wavefront machine to fit my eye exactly.

I am chuffed to bits with it - they feel like my eyes but they now work! I have two small active boys and glasses were a pain with swimming and bicycling and all the outdoor activities that we do with them. I have (had) astigmatism in both eyes so contact lenses weren't that comfy for me.

BD x

[shazrobo]

hi babydaisy, good to hear that the lazer treatment went well, i too have astigmatism in both eyes, so dont find contacts comfy and glasses are a real pain when trying to do activities with the kida.
i've been thinking bout having this done for some time, i have worn glasses since the age of three and i am sick off them, still scared to take the final step and have it done tho. i need to do more thinking bout this before i go ahead

[atalooseend]

A friend at work had laser eye surgery and he is very pleased with the result. I think it was with ultralase. Theres some information about the procedure here

www.yourguideto.org.uk/laser-eye-surgery (http://www.yourguideto.org.uk/laser-eye-surgery)

It also has a laser eye surgery video!

[the devil made me do it]

I'd love corrective surgery, however, my eyesight is very poor and non of the procedures can cope with correcting my sight. I could have lenses inserted into the back of my eyes, but I think it's very expensive. One positive of having this procedure, is the lenses can be removed, so no permanent damage.

I'd be interested in hearing from anyone whose had this done.

[sillyvixen]

scary buisness!! i work for oppticians practice, most people who have lazer wont come and see us as dont need spex... but we have seen a number 0of clients who have ended up with worst vision than b4 .. if you consider this you nned to consider alll possibilities!!!

[moomin_white]

i had laser eye surgery 3 1/2 years ago now and it's been fine bar my eyes being dry sometimes - but then again i experienced that with contact lenses.

however, i do find it strange that so many people go for LASIK considering the high risk of complications. Personally i had LASEK, which does take longer to heal and is more uncomfortable but has a much lower risk of long term side effects.
In fact, i was speaking to an offduty eye surgeon recently and i asked his opinion and he said i certainly made a good decision going with LASEK because of those reasons. (which was a relief!!)

[frivolous_fay]

Before I had my treatment with Dr. Wiles at SPAM LINK I had trouble seeing clearly even with my glasses on. Now I can see my alarm clock without holding it in front of my face and I can see road signs without squinting. I don’t hate driving at night anymore. My life is so much better now; I only wish I had gone to Lasik-1 sooner! Thank you for helping me see what I’ve been missing!"

Like we're going to go to Missouri. Spammer.

[EddiesMum]

I am booked in for laser eye surgery 15th Feb with Optimax in Southampton. They are quoting £895 per eye plus Intraslase or Wavefront extra per eye.
Can anyone recommend any cost cutting I can do on this?
Thanks:confused:

[wishiwasarichgirl]

Not sure if anyone has posted this already but thought it was worth reiterating. When it comes to surgery on your eyes don't always go for the cheapest option (remember, you only get one pair of eyes, look after them - they may have to last a few more years!)

following taken from here (http://www.privatehealth.co.uk/hospitaltreatment/find-a-treatment/laser-eye-surgery/surgeon-questions)

It isimportant that patients make thorough enquiries before laser eye surgery. For a trouble free and straightforward laser eye surgery experience it is sensible to shop around to find a clinic and eye specialist surgeon that you feel comfortable with, and that these factors are considered: safety, technology, expertise, experience and results. (Notice they don't mention cost!!)

Following are some relevant questions to ask before proceeding to laser eye surgery:


How long has the surgeon been performing laser refractive surgery
How many refractive procedures has the surgeon performed?
What are the laser / lasik surgeon’s qualifications - did they undergo formal refractive surgery training, and for how long?
Is the surgeon a cornea specialist?
Is the surgeon a Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists?
Will the consultant/surgeon perform tests to screen for dry eye before surgery?
Have any of the clinic’s treated patients resulted in chronic severe dry eye?
What is the laser / lasik surgeon’s success rate for laser eye surgery?
What will happen if something goes wrong?
Is there a results table of recent operations available?
What percentage of patients has the clinic had to turn down for medical reasons?
Will the surgeon be easily available after surgery for any further queries or concerns?
What type of laser will be used?
Is the clinic a member of the Eye Laser Association (http://www.eyelaserassociation.org.uk/) (ELA)? (The organisation which governs best practice for eye surgery).
What outcome can realistically be expected after surgery?
Will there be any additional costs post surgery?

[fritz1968]

ive resently seen an add on the telly for laser eye surgery.

£395 per eye, free for 12 months then 2yrs intrest free!!!!!!

i can afford this but cant find it on the net!!

ive been staying up late and getting up early for a chance to catch the advert again as i think its a number you have to call to get the offer!!!

can anyone help with this?? im 40 next month and i have never seen the world without streaks and blotches!!

[Ivrytwr3]

more than likely optimax or ultralase.

However, search laser eye surgery on ebay and you will get a much better deal (the owner of the company advertises missed/empty slots). Also you can use Tesco clubcard deals with them.

[Lynxette]

I would not recommend. The actual success rate is a lot lot lower than they suggest - Many users have their eyesight improved, but not corrected to true 20/20 so either have to live in a world where everything is blurry or still have to wear contacts/glasses.

Also, I have heard that it causes your eyesight to deterioate very very quickly after about 10-15 years and you're back at square one, really.

My sister had it done a few years ago and now regrets it; She says it wasn't worth the money!!


However, at the end of the day there must be highly satisfied customers out there for these companies to be so successful, so I suppose you've just got the calculate the risk and see if it's really worth it.

[chatty123]

Just like to say that the price of 395 will probably rise to over 2000 actually. BUT the technology today gives 100% success. My son had worn glasses from the age of 18 months and his eyesight was pretty bad, he recently had his eyes lasered and from 2 days after his eyesight is perfect and carries a lifetime guarantee.
Of course this came to a fee of £3600 but for a 22 year old it's money well spent.
All i can say is, do it if you have the spare cash BUT please do your research on the company first.

GOOD LUCK

[freejunkie]

08000 08000
http://www.ultralase.com/landing/2/
HTH

[freejunkie]

08000 08000
http://www.ultralase.com/landing/2/
HTH

http://www.optimax.co.uk/
Just saw the ad

[mr_rush]

>>BUT the technology today gives 100% success.<<

No medical intervention offers a 100% success rate.
10% of patients have problems.
Why do many ophthalmologists wear glasses rather then undergo this procedure when they could have it performed by colleagues for a nominal sum? Because they have not seen long term success rates yet and they do not want to be test subjects.

Until I see 20 year stats for post-op problems, I'm not getting it done

[mookiandco]

I received a letter about this offer. You need to call them on 08456889454 quoting 'IF4'. The offer is on until 31/05/08.

[Nicifer_noonoo]

If you do decide to go for a consultation, make sure you go for consultations with several different companies - Optimax bungled my consultation so much, there was not a chance in hell I was giving them the chance to do the same to my eyesight. Had them done with Ultralase in September, and they are perfect - I could be a pilot in the RAF now!! :)

[fritz1968]

thank you one and all!!!

some of you have got me excited about what i could have, while others have got me thinking about what i might loose!!!

i will tread carefully through and post my personal outcome later!!

once again, thanks for your efforts and advice.


and nicifer!!!! sorry to burst your bubble but i think there are some odd rules about flying after having your eyes zapped!!!!! ooopps!!!

[EagerLearner]

I had Lasik surgery 7 years ago with Optimax and they were great - there weren't as many payment options as there are now either. I am 31 now, very happy with it and have saved money many times over as used to pay £30 a month for contacts plus all the cleansers etc. 3 friends have done it now as a result of my surgery.

Search www.ciao.co.uk (http://www.ciao.co.uk) and you will see - my review is the one called 'Are Those My Eyes Burning!' - scary sounding but really a title to get people to read it and actually see how much of a change it can make for your life.

Ultimately, you need to compare at least 3 companies and then decide if they have the expertise and the technology to suit you. Also, the younger you do it the better as with age your eyes will naturally get tired.

[Katykat]

To reply to mrRush. I also had doubts when I was having my (4) consulations because mostly, the surgeons I saw wore glasses. So I asked!. I was told that although 20/20 vision can , and very often is, acheived, the clarity of vision is not absolutely crystal clear. Now, I dont think anyone would want to bee operated on by a surgeon who doesn't have perfect vision. Laser surgery improves your vision tremendously but it doesn't make it perfect, not good enough to perform microscopic surgery. Incidentally, I did have it done, at optical express, and everything is fine.

[wishiwasarichgirl]

... Had them done with Ultralase in September, and they are perfect - I could be a pilot in the RAF now!! :)

I wouldn't apply just yet ;) :


4. Refractive Surgery
A history of refractive surgery is a bar to entry for all aircrew branches.
However the following methods of surgical correction of myopia or hypermetropia are considered suitable for entry on an individual, case by case basis for non-specialist
employment groups:
1) Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) or laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK).
2) Laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK).
3) Intrastromal corneal rings (ICRs),



This is subject to the provision of documentary evidence showing:
1) The date of the last surgical procedure – which must be at least 1 year before application
2) That the pre-operative refraction was within the limits of +/-6.00 Dioptres
3) That the refraction is stable
All candidates will be assessed on a case-by case basis, taking the residual visual function into account.


taken from the Association of Optometrists (http://www.assoc-optometrists.org/services/visual/visual_1010163352.html)website


and just so you know, 20/20 vision is not "perfect" vision, many people have better vision than this with glasses, and if left with 20/20 (or 6/6 if using UK rather than yank terms) after surgery, some people who are fussy about their vision may be disappointed.

I am an optician, so I suppose I have a vested interest in people NOT having the surgery, but still, if it was guaranteed success I would go for it, but as someone said, no surgery is guaranteed, or 100%.

If you are in or nearing your 40's then you will probably still need glasses afterwards for reading (I am saying this as a few patients I have seen who had laser refractive surgery either weren't told this or didn't hear it, and thought I was the one lying when I told them they needed glasses again!)

[blaggerdan]

alot of adverts claim £300 as a starting price but yes as many ppl have pointed out depending on your prescription this can rise rapidly.

I know some people who have had laser surgery where one eye is corrected for distance and one for near a similar concept that is used for contact lens correction.

if after your surgery your eyes heal and you are left with some prescription you find that the eye is too flat for a contact lens to sit snugly on the eye so it moves all over so you may possibly end up weraing glasses again :)

just some random thoughts on the topic

[LouBlue]

I had Ultralase on mine about 7 years ago. Cost me £700 per eye and worth EVERY PENNY! No more glasses, prescription sun glasses, contact lens....and just the general hassle. I know it won't last forever but it has been so worth it. Lots of my friends have had it done through Ultralase as well and are very happy with the results. :)

[geri1965]

alot of adverts claim £300 as a starting price but yes as many ppl have pointed out depending on your prescription this can rise rapidly.


if after your surgery your eyes heal and you are left with some prescription you find that the eye is too flat for a contact lens to sit snugly on the eye so it moves all over so you may possibly end up weraing glasses again :)



My prescription is -10 in both eyes with an astigmatism, so it would probably cost me thousands, and the risks are a lot greater with complex prescriptions.

I'd love to have perfect sight but the thought of something going wrong and never being able to wear contact lenses again is just too awful to think about.

[fritz1968]

having read everyones advice, and ive been asking around other places too!!!

ive come to the conclusion that it aint worth the risk!!:confused: :confused: :confused:

the perfect vision that ive dreamed of just isnt going to happen with my prescription!!!

so im going to go and buy a new motorbike instead!!

many thanks one and all, now im off down to shorrocks to have a look at a TL1000 !!!:beer: :beer: :beer:

[EagerLearner]

I had -4 and -5, extremely short sighted in both eyes since the age of 3, when I started to wear glasses. When I applied for LASIK, they told me I was the worse case of astigmatism they had ever seen, for my age (I was 24 at the time). It can be done, and I found it well worth it. PS: I *sold* my motorbike to get the money to to mine! x

[blaggerdan]

Good luck finding a good motorbike...make sure you wear the right correction for your prescription and drive safe :p

[SamanthaA]

This may already be somewhere, but I can`t see it.

Does anyone have experience with this?

I`m 39, have worn glasses for 25yrs, contacts off and on for about 12 yrs.

I was looking at Ultralase(sp) in Brum. Not the cheapest, but I have a personal recommendation from a friend.
Besides they contacted me with an 18mth intrest free deffered payment! They must be desperate, so I am having the free consultaion & seeing what else they will give me?

Has anyone done the cost comparisons regarding costs for surgery against lenses/ glasses?

Any answers, comments would be appreciated.

[Nicifer_noonoo]

Hi Samantha :)

There are loads of threads on this already...do a search for laser eye :)

[SamanthaA]

I know its not going to be perfect if I have it done, but at 39 my eyesight wouldn`t be perfect if I naturally didn`t need glasses!

Personally I just want to get up without reaching for the glasses/ contacts before I can see the floor! -6.5 & -7, means I haven`t been swimming in years, hate high things (love heights - terrified of losing glasses/ contacts!) and have trouble either by breaking or losing contacts/ glasses! Clumsey me!

Wouldn`t even mind if I had to have driving/reading glasses, so long as in general I didnt need glasses.

Things must have got better - last time I investigated, the company got you to sign an `if we make you blind, you cant sue` waiver! I hope this has changed?!

[WindChim]

hi

I'm seriously debating laser eye surgery .. have been wearing contacts and glasses for nearly 15 years (am 36) but have recently fallen out with my lenses.. in fact, am sitting here squinting as it's completely dried my eye out and I didn't peel it off in time so my poor eye is not happy :-(

I always said no to the idea of surgery.. mainly due to pain, and if anything were to go wrong, and at 36, is it worth it as the eyes deteriorate as you get older, and also as it's not a longstanding technique, so am unsure of long term unknown effects.

I've done a bit of a search, but just wanted some basic advice - those that have had it done, is it really worth it, and how bad is it to go through? any recommendations on who / how to approach is appreciated.

thanks
Windy

[Zazen999]

My OH had it done a few weeks ago, and I'm having it next monday [can't wait].

There's a humungous thread on here about it all; just use the search button.

[Bonbon]

Sorry I can't give you any advice but I'd like mine done too. Like you, I have some worries.I thought it would be the end of wearing glasses but I don't think it works like that.The people I know who have had it done actually still wear glasses for reading.I thought it made your eyesight perfect so I look forward to reading the responses to your questions.

[razorbladekisses]

A guy I work with had his done a few years ago. He can see things far away perfectly well. However, for close-up things such as reading he has to wear glasses. Apparently this is something to do with being over 40 and eyesight generally deteriorating. He has recently been for another laser consultation to fix his long-sightedness. Will have to see whether he decides to go ahead with it or not. If he does, this means he's paid twice for laser eye surgery :confused:

[car25]

I asked my optician about this in passing (would not consider it myself), and she said that some people who have this surgery can go on to have problems with driving at night.

[Summer1969]

I had mine done about 8 years ago, best thing I have ever done! Had it with Ultralase (Lasik). I am not sure how long it will last but its been worth every penny. No more glasses, prescription sunglasses, contact lens...great being able to swim and actually see now....lol. It doesn't hurt, but is just a bit weird and its very quick. You will get a consultation beforehand anyway to see if you are suitable, you can ask a lot of questions there as well. I have had no problem with night vision either. Obviously, its all dependent on your eye prescripton. I had a -4 prescription, short sighted.