Long‐term results of LASIK in the correction of high myopia

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: LASIK is widely used in the correction of moderate and high myopia, even though reports on long‐term results are few. We carried out this study to evaluate long‐term results, stability and patient satisfaction after LASIK for high myopia. Methods: The study included 77 eyes of 47 patients who underwent LASIK for myopia of over ‐10 D in our hospital in the years 1999 to 2003. Preoperative and early postoperative data, including uncorrected and best corrected visual acuity and refraction, were collected retrospectively from hospital files. An additional examination with satisfaction query was performed 2 to 5 years after the operation. Results: After a follow‐up of 2 to 5 years, 40% of the patients were within 1.0 D from the original intended refraction, 70% within 2.0 D, and 91% within 3.0 D. Only one eye lost 2 Snellen lines of visual acuity, while 3 eyes gained two lines and the rest had no significant change. Regression was mild but statistically significant in long term, with mean spherical equivalent being ‐1.2 D at one month, ‐1.8 D at 6 months, and ‐1.9 D at two to five years. Nine eyes had mild postoperative complications which all resolved without permanent consequences, and none developed keratectasia. All except one patient were very satisfied with the results, and would have chosen the operation again. Conclusions: In conclusion, with careful patient selection and safety precautions, LASIK is a safe and relatively predictable alternative in the treatment of myopia of ‐10 to ‐17 D.