PTK Laser

[LindaLa]

I am having PTK laser next week. Has anyone had this done? I started with dry eye symptoms over 2 years ago. I was diagnosed with blepharitis and my symptoms have gotten progressively worse. I now suffer from recurrent corneal erosions and have been diagnosed with map dot fingerprint dystrophy. My opthamalogist was at a point where he felt he was unable to help me anymore so he told me I needed to see a corneal specialist. I feel confident in her treatment plan but I am curious to hear from others what their experience was. The specialist has told me that I will need the procedure in both eyes. My right eye much worse than my left and I think I will try to wait as long as possible before having the left eye done. I also wouldn't make that decision until I see how the right eye turns out. The doctor also warned me that we need to get the dry eye under control as I will continue to have flare ups from time to time if I don't although they should not be as severe or as frequent.

[liz56]

Hi, LindaLa.

I'm sorry that I missed this post. How did your surgery go? I hope that you are recovering well!

--Liz

[LindaLa]

I am still having blurry vision in my eye but the doctor says that it will take up to 3 months for vision to return to normal and even then I will most likely need to change my prescription. Both post op appointments went well. They tell me my cornea looks good. I didn't realize that it would take so long but the doctor explained that the underlying layers take longer to heal than the corneal epithelium. I remain optimistic and hopeful. After dealing with this for two years I look forward to being pain free.

[liz56]

Thanks for the update, LindaLa.

I'm happy to hear that you are improving! Yes, superficial healing of the cornea happens quickly, but real healing takes a lot of time. I learned that the hard way.

Best wishes for continued good progress,
Liz