FAQs / Is Laser Peripheral Iridotomy for Me?

QUESTION:

Hello Dr. Richardson,

I viewed one of your patients on Youtube who had a Laser iridotomy done by you. I know you are a very busy man so I’ll keep this brief.

I have seen 4 specialist regarding narrow angle and 3 out of 4 say I should have laser Iridotomy. I’m terrified after reading so many horror stories online and so few success stories. I wonder if you could give me some positive feedback about the potential side effects. I am so anxious about the side effects (double vision, white lines, and glare) that so may complain is permanent. Are these typical because it sure looks that way from all the blogs.

I have someone who I think is a good Ophthalmologist from Miramar Eye Specialists Medical Group in Ventura County where I live. However, I would appreciate a little feedback from another professionals experience.

If you are not able to write back I understand and if you are thank you in advance.

Best regards,
******

ANSWER:

Dear ******,

Although I cannot comment on whether laser iridotomy is appropriate for you, it is generally well-tolerated. Yes, there are risks as with every surgery. Do most people notice glare or ghosting afterward? No. But some do and it can be permanent.

However, for those who have very narrow (what we call “occludable”) angles the real risk is a sudden, permanent, severe loss of vision. Compared to that all the risks of laser peripheral iridotomy are but annoyances. Are there people who have commented online about how unhappy they are with glare or ghosting after the laser treatment? Yes. Would each and every one of those people prefer their current symptoms to severe loss of vision? Your guess is as good as mine, but I’d bet dollars to donuts that not one of them would prefer blindness over glare or ghosting.

Laser peripheral iridotomy is a bit like wearing a seatbelt. If you never get into an accident then you may feel it was an annoying, wasted effort to wear it. But if you knew you were going to get into an accident I bet you’d make certain you had buckled up. Your doctors don’t know your angle will close (get into an accident) but it sounds like most agree that you’re at high risk.

Hope this gives you some perspective.

BTW, is the doctor you’re seeing at Miramar Dr. John Davidson? If so, he’s excellent. I’d trust my eyes to his care.

Warm regards,
David Richardson, MD
Patient-Focused Ophthalmologist

San Marino Eye
2020 Huntington Drive
San Marino, CA 91108
626.289.7856

Patient-Focused Websites:
New-Glaucoma-Treatments.com
About-Eyes.com

Date: Aug 21, 2014 at 6:36 AM

Posted in: Canaloplasty and Other Surgeries, Glaucoma, Loss Of Vision [Others]