What is regression? (Posted: jan 2005)

Regression is when a patient's vision, after the immediately post-operative healing period, drifts back towards the original prescription.

Why do people regress after laser eye surgery? (posted: jan 2005)

There are many possible reasons. Some have to do with individual patient physiology and health, for example, hormonal factors in women (such as HRT or thyroid disease) are believed to be linked to late regresion. Some may be linked to poor quality laser treatment. At any rate, it is not yet predictable.

How long after surgery can people regress? (posted: jan 2005)

There is no particular limit. Some patients find that their prescription slides noticeably during the first three months, then stablises. Some find their vision is stable for a year and then declines.

What does it mean for the patient? (posted: jan 2005)

Regression is a frustrating problem because it is simply not predictable. The biggest dilemma for the patient may be in deciding whether or not to have an "enhancement" or second surgery. We believe that there are two arguments against this for any patient who has had unusual regression. One, how do they know they have stopped regressing? One only has a finite amount of corneal tissue. It would be terrible to subject oneself to all the risks of a second surgery to achieve something when then goes away again a few months later of its own. Two, how do they know they will not again have an unusual response to surgery? If the cornea did not respond the first time around the way the average cornea is supposed to respond, how can it be relied upon to do so the second time?

How is regression diagnosed? (posted: jan 2005)

Standard refraction ("better 1, better 2?" type test).

Can it be treated? (posted: jan 2005)

Glasses, contacts, or (subject to risks) surgical retreatment.

Where can I learn more about regression? (posted: jan 2005)

Click here for Encyclopedia entry, which may have additional articles and links.