The doctor is in

First of all, there is no such thing as a laser surgery for cataract. It8217;s a misnomer. The machine used for correction of cataract is called phaco emulsifier. It removes the cataract though a small incision which will not require suturing. People usually refer the same procedure as laser surgery, which is incorrect. The surgery is expensive and I would recommend the alternative manual procedure. In the manual procedure, a small incision is made to correct the cataract and the results are just as good.

Three years ago, I had undergone a lasic surgery to get rid of my glasses. My power at that time was -5 and now it is again -3. At the time of the surgery, I was told that my vision would be fully restored. What do you suggest I do now?

Dr Malik replies:

Lasic surgery is the removal of the front portion of the eye called cornea. Usually, results remain stable over years but in some cases vision deteriorates with time. And the power may change from a plus number to a minus number or vice versa. This is one of the major flaws of the procedure and a patient must understand this before undergoing the procedure. At this moment, depending on your corneal condition you may either have another surgery or choose to use spectacles. I would recommend the use of glasses.