Page 150 - Nov- Dec 2024

CASE STUDY: Ravi, a patient considering LASIK, necessitates reading glasses even after distance
discovered he had dry eye syndrome during
a pre-surgery check-up. Without treatment,
surgery could have worsened his condition.
After treating his dry eyes, he underwent LASIK
successfully with a smooth recovery.
IDENTIFYING IDEAL CANDIDATES AND
MANAGING RISKS
An optometrist helps identify candidates who
are most likely to benefit from refractive surgery
while also pinpointing conditions that may
disqualify a patient or increase surgical risk.
IDEAL CANDIDATES:
 Stable Prescription: Stability for at least a year
is recommended in candidates.
 Mild to Moderate Refractive Errors:
Candidates with myopia, hyperopia, or
astigmatism often benefit.
 Healthy Corneas: A thick, healthy cornea
of the respective candidates is vital for a
successful outcome.
WHO SHOULD AVOID SURGERY?
 Keratoconus: Progressive corneal thinning
makes surgery hazardous.
 Severe Dry Eyes: Surgery can aggravate this
condition, leading to chronic discomfort.
 Unstable Prescription: Results won’t be
lasting if vision is still changing.
 Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus
or rheumatoid arthritis may impair healing
and increase risks.
CASE STUDY: Sonia, eager for LASIK, was
diagnosed with early-stage keratoconus during
her consultation. Instead of surgery, she was
fitted with specialised contact lenses that
improved her vision without invasive treatment.
REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS AND THE
LIMITS OF SURGERY
Optometrists play a critical role in managing
expectations. While refractive surgery can
significantly improve vision factors like age,
eye health, and refractive error can greatly
impact results. For example, presbyopia often
144 | THE INDIAN OPTICIAN | NOV-DEC 2024
vision correction. Optometrists help patients
understand these limits, fostering satisfaction
and preparing them for any post-surgery
adjustments.
AN OPTOMETRIST'S ROLE DURING
POST-OPERATIVE CARE
Optometrists are essential to postoperative
care, monitoring recovery and managing any
complications. Follow-up care can involve
treating dry eyes, managing infections, or
addressing residual refractive errors. Without
proper care, patients may experience issues
like fluctuating vision or delayed healing. The
optometrist's role is critical to achieving optimal
results and ensuring long-term eye health.
NON-SURGICAL ALTERNATIVES
Not all patients are candidates for surgery, and
some may prefer non-invasive options that are
safe and effective. Optometrists can offer a range
of alternatives to effectively correct vision:
1. Prescription Glasses: Modern glasses offer
advanced designs that may address complex
refractive errors, including astigmatism and
presbyopia.
2. Contact Lenses:
 Soft Lenses: Ideal for daily wear.
 Toric Lenses: Specifically designed for
astigmatism.
 Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses:
Provides sharper vision, especially for patients
with irregular corneas.
 Scleral Lenses: Suitable for keratoconus or
severe dry eyes.
 Multifocal Lenses: Addresses both
distance and near vision.
3. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Special lenses
worn overnight to reshape the cornea,
offering clear vision during the day. Ortho-K
is particularly effective for children with
progressive myopia.
4. Low Vision Aids: Devices like magnifying
glasses and electronic aids are beneficial for
OPTOMETRY