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Loss of Contrast
asked 1 year ago by firefighter76651 in Italy, Texas
Latest answer by Mark Golden, MD
Question viewed 427 times
I've noticed that since I've had intralase lasik things look strange when the lighting is dim, but when I go outside in daylight things return to normal. I had it July 2, 2010 so I'm sure I've lost some contrast. I've heard that it returns to pre operative levels withing 6 months. I've read where anybody that has refractive surgery loses it but then it returns. Just wondering how true this is. I've also notice it does the same in the evening when the sun goes down. I'm hopeing it will go away.
3 answers to Loss of Contrast
+1
Loss of contrast with Intralase LASIK
The Intralase works by making thousands of tiny explosions close to each other so that a plane of a flap is made. In inexperienced hands, it is certainly a safer way to make a flap, but it has a number of complications not seen with a microkeratome. Loss of contrast in most situations will improve with time as will most Intralase flap problems. The issue commonly has to do with the amount of laser energy used in the making of the flap. The frequent use of tear drops helps the surface of the...
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Mark Golden, MD
Chicago Ophthalmologist
Chicago Ophthalmologist
+1
Most intralast LASIK patients continue to improve
Indeed hopefully you will continue to improve like most Intralase LASIK patients. I agree that most patients notice the improvement within 3-6 months for a variety of reasons like neuro-adaptation (the brain readjusting), first healing, and the resolution of post-operative dry eyes. Using artificial tears, Restasis, and/or punctual plugs to improve the film often speed the recovery. Speak to your surgeon.
+1
It depends
Sometimes this type of complaint after refractive surgery is temporary. But sometimes there are permanent issues due to corneal scarring, reduction in the tear film, residual or recurrent refractive error (need for glasses), or issues related to loss of focusing power (accommodation) in individuals around age 40 and above.
Talk to your surgeon -- s/he wants you to be satisfied.
Benjamin Ticho, MD
Chicago Ophthalmologist
Chicago Ophthalmologist