Corrective Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   corrective surgery?
   i had a hysterctomy in april and got MRSA for my troubles,need corrective surgery to repair severe damage caused.only problem is,the op will take place in same hospital in Preston where i got it from. Would you go back ?????????

   • ANSWER:
     Hell no!

     I think I'd be asking for a referral to another hospital (preferably one with a better record!) and I would think that you would be within your rights to do so based on your previous experience at that hospital.

     MRSA certainly wouldn't encourage me to revisit the same place!

     Go with your instincts on this one, you've already had one really bad experience - I certainly wouldn't be in any hurry to repeat it.

     Our hospitals in the UK are completely disgusting, too much emphasis on how many people they can treat in as short a time as possible and no thought to basic levels of hygiene.

     Come back Matron all is forgiven!

2. QUESTION:
   Corrective surgery?
   Im 18 i am about -7.00 in both eyes im not near or far sighted just a terrible amount of astigmatism...my doctor said that soft contacts would not give me good enough vision so im either stuck with glasses of hard contact lenses..is there a surgery to fix my problem and at what age can it be done..thanks

   • ANSWER:
     well if you're not nearsighted, you're saying you have -7.00 CYLINDER in both eyes?

     right now there is no great surgery for that amount of astigmatism. lasik really cant do that much, not accurately. neither can PRK. if someone mentions "implantable contacts" or "phakic iols", they dont come in 7 diopters of cylinder yet, either.

     so the short answer is...unfortunately no. RIGID bitorc contacts are probably your best bet IMO for the best possible vision at this time in your case

3. QUESTION:
   I have a slight underbite. How much will the corrective surgery affect my appearance?
   Ok so I'm 17 and am supposed to have corrective jaw surgery to fix a slight underbite in about 5 months if i choose. Has anyone had this who can tell me how different you looked afterwards? I'm worried that it will change my appearance drastically and make my face look unnatural. Please answer if you've already been through the procedure.

   • ANSWER:
     In most cases it will change your appearance slightly, and your face will be more attractive. (Underbite is the polite term for weak jaw.) It will, of course, look quite different to you, but other people will probably just ask what your new sport is or who you met that has you looking so happy.

4. QUESTION:
   How long is the recovery from corrective surgery for low imperforate anus?
   My son will be getting corrective surgery for his imperforate anus soon and was wondering how long is the recovery. He was given a colostomy the day after he was born and is now a month and a half old. I'm nervous for the day to come because I know he will be in pain and uncomfortable for some time afterward. Any advice?
   The doc said he would be able to go home a few days after and would take about two weeks to heal for the most part, but be sore for a while. I would like to know from others' experiences.

   • ANSWER:
     What did the doctor say?

5. QUESTION:
   Is it normal to appear cross-eyed after corrective surgery?
   Is it normal to appear cross-eyed after corrective surgery?
   My hubby had corrective surgery for lazy eyes 3 days ago.
   Both of his eyes were corrected, but now he look cross eyed.
   It it possible the doctor over corrected his eyes?
   Or will it take some time for them both to adjust and the muscles to strengthen themselves?

   • ANSWER:
     Yes it is possible to over correct. ive had 4 corrdctive surgeries (2 per eye) because of over correction. The way to tell if he didnt over correct too much is if he has double vision. That means his eyes are straighter, so he doesnt recognise that as a single object, he recognizes it as two.

6. QUESTION:
   How has corrective, Scoliosis surgery evolved since the mid 70's?
   I had corrective surgery done in Indianapolis in 1976. In those days one option was traction and the surgery with the implantation of a Harrington rod. I was one of the first subjects to receive a rod like that one.

   Since then I have come to need some revision surgery and wondered how the correction has progressed.

   • ANSWER:
     I had my scoliosis surgery in 1986 and i too have a Harrington rod fitted,but now the Harrington rod has been stopped as it causes problems for patients,but i never had traction as you had,and i now believe they make rods that are flexible how things have changed,

     here is a link for scoliosis support,its a forum to ask answer ans chat to others who have scoliosis,they will be able to tell you much more,

     http://www.scoliosis-support.org

     hope this helps.

7. QUESTION:
   How do you know if you were born hermaphrodite but had corrective surgery after birth?
   I was wondering if it was possible to know if i was born hermaphrodite but had a corrective surgery at birth.
   Would i have any special scars on my body?
   Thanks

   • ANSWER:
     After this long I doubt you would still be able to see them. Plus it's hard to get a really good look down there. It would be on your record though from the day you were born, and your mother would know. Also after the age of 18 you can get a copy of all your medical records.

8. QUESTION:
   Do the US military branches allow pilots to have undergone eye corrective surgery?
   I'm a junior in high school right now, and I've always wanted to fly helicopters for the Coast Guard, Navy, or Air Force. But, I have 20/200 vision and I wear glasses and contacts. Is there any way that I could still be able to fly in the military - corrective eye surgery, maybe?

   • ANSWER:
     I believe they've started accepting certain types of refractive surgery but I can't tell you which branch accepts which surgery(s). The Army however accepts both PRK and LASIK refractive surgeries for pilots and has the largest helicopter fleet on the planet. Worth considering for your future. I know I haven't regretted it and I also used to have 20/200, now seeing 20/15. Good luck.

     UPDATE- Sorry Jeepers, you're 100% incorrect about the Army and PRK.

9. QUESTION:
   Best hospital in bangalore for Eye corrective surgery and experience ?
   Hi ,

   Am planning to do eye corrective surgery in bangalore, Any body have done eye corrective surgery here. How was the experience, its safe to do?

   looking forward for your experience.

   Thanks

   • ANSWER:
     Narayana Nethralaya
     at RAJAJI NAGAR
     #121/C Chord Road,
     1st ‘R' Block, Rajaji Nagar,
     Bangalore -560 010 - INDIA.
     TEL: +91-80-66121300-1305
     +91-80-66121400-1404
     FAX: +91-80-23377329
     Mobile: 9902 546046 (Emergency Only)

     Narayana Nethralaya
     at NARAYANA HEALTH CITY
     Narayana Hrudayalaya Campus
     Bommasandra, Hosur Road,
     Bangalore - 560 099 - INDIA.
     TEL: 91-80-66660655-0658
     FAX: 91-80-66660650
     Mobile: 9902 821128 (Emergency Only)

     info@narayananethralaya.com nnethralayamail@gmail.com

     /www.narayananethralaya.org

10. QUESTION:
    does any one know the price of Bowleg corrective surgery in the USA?
    I'm trying to look for a place to get bow leg corrective surgery, Does any insurances company covers it.

    • ANSWER:
      You would have to contact the insurance co and ask. This is a pretty extensive surgery requiring cutting the bones, realigning & casting/using hardware. Best would be to start with seeing an orthopedist who could do xrays & tell you the options.

11. QUESTION:
    Need Information on corrective surgery for a bicornuate uterus?
    My wife has a bicornuate uterus and she is currently pregnant with our first child our baby is having growth issues. My wife has been under alot of stress due to her abnormalities and baby's growth. Does anyone know if there is corrective surgery for a bicornuate uterus? If there is please provide name of surgery and a good hospital to have one done. This is a serious and very important question and we are going through a difficult and critical time so please just grow up answers and serious answers.

    Thank you

    • ANSWER:
      I'm a pediatrician, not an OB. I am unaware of corrective surgery for bicornuate uterus. Your OB would be the best source to answer this.

      I cared for only a handful of infants born of mothers with bicornuate uterus. They were all ok. I remember one having a mild deformation of the skull that resolved spontaneously after birth.

      Every situation is different, and there are varying degrees of bicornuate uteri. In most situations I think the risk of surgery on a pregnant uterus would be much riskier than letting nature take its course. Again, your OB should be able to advise you on this issue. There are a few recognized medical centers in the US for fetal surgery. I doubt whether it would be indicated in your case.

      Best wishes for a good outcome. My limited experience suggests your odds are excellent.

12. QUESTION:
    Has anyone else had corrective jaw surgery for an overbite?
    I am due to have this corrective surgery and was wondering if anyone could offer advice on recovery times and what to expect in terms of swelling and bruising. Also how long it took to start eating solids again. Any advice would be really appreciated. Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      With the jaw surgery :

      1. You will notice the improvement right away once you wake up.

      2. Then the face will swell up and it won't be as obvious again until the swelling goes down

      3. It will be very painful

      4. The doctor will prescribe strong pain medication and antibiotics (if needed) to reduce the risks of infection and pain and swelling.

      5. You will have to apply a lot of ice to expedite the healing.

      6. You may feel prolonged episode of numbness in the areas affected.

      7. The recovery will be a long process.

      8. The surgery itself may not eliminate the need for braces altogether.

13. QUESTION:
    Can i have corrective surgery for hearing loss?
    I was born with a perfectly formed but small ear but with no hole for my ear canal for the sound to come in or out. Can i have corrective surgery.
    I was born with a smaller right ear which hasnt got a hole. I have some hearing in it but if someone is standing on my right side i probs wont hear them yet if i stick earphone in my bad ear i can hear the music. Can i have surgery. When i was a child they told my mom i could have explorative surgery but my mom didnt want to risk it

    • ANSWER:
      Hello and good luck to you.Remember that if your hearing with the other ear is fine you are indeed a normal person and should not worry.Am not sure how old are you but I assumed that you have some imaging( like CAT scan) as a baby. The ear canal leads to some important structures inside the skull.If these structures are absent then hearing with this ear is almost impossible. If your external ear is still small and this is causing you some concern; this is easily dealt with in a very simple and almost 100% success rate through any descent cosmetic surgery.In any case please ask your GP to refer you to the ENT specialist in the hospital.
      good luck

14. QUESTION:
    Should I have corrective surgery before applying for OCS?
    I have suffered two shoulder dislocations (same shoulder) and now have minor joint instability. Both dislocations were the result of blunt force trauma. I can now receive corrective surgery to repair the shoulder, but I'm worried the medical record would be a red flag to Coast Guard recruiters. I can swim and perform push-ups, pull-ups and like workouts with no problems. Would the surgery disqualify me, or be seen as beneficial by the Coast Guard?

    • ANSWER:
      Go and get the surgery you're probably going to need it anyway even if you don't join. Once you're healed you should be OK.

15. QUESTION:
    If someone has vision worse than requirements, can they still become a Navy SEAL, after corrective surgery?
    Say they go to the Naval Academy, and get laser eye surgery right after graduation, and the surgery is done by the Navy, or approved by the Navy.

    They go on their 2-year tour of duty.

    If their vision meets the requirements then, after already having had corrective surgery, can they enter BUD/S training, assuming they meet all other requirements?

    Thank you!

    • ANSWER:
      Yes, vision waviers are allowed for those who have had PRK.

16. QUESTION:
    Getting eye corrective surgery as Navy SEAL?
    Is it possible. My vision is not 20/20 and i want to be a SEAL. I have read some places you cant have eye corrective surgery and be a SEAL. Other places it has said you could. What is the answer? Please a Navy recruiter or someone like that answer.

    Thanks in advance!
    Also can you get the surgery as a civilian and still be allowed to tryout.

    • ANSWER:
      My boyfriend got PRK before starting BUD/S. He would've been in class 282, but was rolled back two because of the surgery. When he first joined though we thought he'd have to change his job to a Navy Diver, but his vision was correctable. So it just depends how bad yours is.

      Don't get it as a civillian...just join the Navy first, enter the BUD/S program and let them take care of it, that way it's not being paid for out of your pocket.

17. QUESTION:
    What do you guys think of corrective surgery? And I don't mean plastic surgery.?
    I'm talking about corrective surgery, where they might resize your bones and join them back together with a titanium screw and bolt
    Sorry I should've made myself more clear.
    Its for medical reasons but I also have a choice whether to go for it or not.
    Also, Its not for extra height Thank you all for your responses so far!

    • ANSWER:
      If you are talking about making yourself taller I would have to say it is not worth it, I heard that it is very painful and it involves them breaking your legs and lengthing them.

18. QUESTION:
    What age is a good age for corrective eye surgery?
    I really want corrective eye surgery(glasses my whole life, contacts never worked, etc.), but I'm afraid my eyes are still growing. (I guess a side question would be, when do eyes stop growing?) What age is a good age for corrective eye surgery? I've heard various things, like right after puberty to age 24. Please give a straight, informed answer, not the first result in a search. I really appreciate any help! Thank you!

    • ANSWER:
      One should typically wait til about mid-20's. Most MD's look for at least 3 yrs of stable vision. The eyes will continue to grow til usually mid to late teens. At infancy, the length of the eyeball is between 17-18 mm and the average adult eyeball is ~24 mm in length. Puberty is typically when the prescription of the eyes change the most. The person has a big growth spurt and grows many inches, the eye lengthens (grows too, but not by big #'s) and you become more nearsighted. Everyone's different, but most people stabilize in mid-20's. Thus, LASIK is best then.

      Heads up though, you'll still need reading glasses in your 40's! Everyone does!

19. QUESTION:
    How long is the waiting list for corrective jaw surgery UK?
    Hey guys,

    I've been told by my dentist I'll need to get corrective jaw surgery to fix my underbite and has referred me to a orthodontist. I just want to know how long would I need to wait on the NHS to get the surgery?.

    Also, is there a way to check if I'm on the waiting list or will I receive a letter from the hospital telling me I'm on the waiting list?

    Thanks in Advance.

    • ANSWER:
      Impossible to say.
      Your dentist will be able to tell you when and where his referral is sent. He may be able to tell you which consultant will do the surgery.
      Then the hospital will only contact you when they want you to attend for pre op examination or for admission.
      Then the way to check is by ringing the appropriate department and asking.

20. QUESTION:
    What do you think of a 15-year-old getting corrective jaw surgery if he got braces after?
    I'm 15 and need corrective jaw surgery for my underbite. It's affected my speech and I have a hard time chewing. I am constantly having to hide my teeth from my friends because it has gotten so bad. My confidence is totally gone. I just want to be a normal teenager without having to hide my face all the time.
    I don't know if my ortho will let me do it, though. Do you think he/she will let me if I convince them the severity?

    • ANSWER:
      Have you had a meeting with your orthodontist yet?
      They'll explain what the problem >is< and say whether or not they can fix it, and to what extent.
      A friend of mine had braces to correct his underbite when he was younger, but he still has it. I think it just minimized the underbite, not fully take it away.
      But if you're willing to get jaw surgery, and if the orthodontist thinks it will work, go for it.
      You may want to consult more than one orthodontist.
      (The first one I went to told me they were going to break my jaw to correct a minimal overbite, the second just put me on elastics and they worked lol)

      I hope I helped

21. QUESTION:
    Who or which plans cover corrective eye surgery?
    In Canada, does anyone know what the deal is on corrective eye surgery, as in: do most company benefit plans cover it? Or do many insurance companies cover it? Or vice versa?

    • ANSWER:
      I don't think insurance covers it because it's an elective cosmetic surgery. Insurance in the US doesn't cover it, so I'm guessing Canada is the same way. If you have a flexible spending account of insurance, that might pay for it. I would call your insurance company. If your talking about the universal care, they definitely won't cover it.

22. QUESTION:
    How long is the recovery after a corrective jaw surgery?
    I am having corrective jaw surgery this summer to correct my bite and other things wrong with my jaw. They are breaking both my upper and bottom jaws too and possibly putting in metal posts for two incisor fake teeth.

    Estimated, how long is recovery, and about how much of it would be in a hospital?
    i am 15 years old btw

    • ANSWER:
      Most patients are allowed to leave about 2-4 days after the surgery. Normal recovery time can range from 4-6 weeks, but you can usually go back to work/school after about 2 weeks.

      It isn't reccomended to do any strenuous exercise for 4 weeks after the surgery, and especially not to play any contact sports for at least 3 months.

23. QUESTION:
    Could you get corrective jaw surgery without braces?
    I'm probably going to need corrective jaw surgery. I meet with the surgeon in october & I was wondering if there's a way to get the surgery with out braces? Such as invisalign? Also why do you need braces before & after?

    • ANSWER:
      The braces or Invisalign are needed to line your teeth up properly, before the surgeon repositions your jaws. Afterwards there is usually a bit of fine-tuning with the braces or Invisalign.

      In some cases you can have Invisalign before the surgery. It depends on the orthodontist, surgeon, and the type of surgery. You may have to do some research in your area.

      Good luck!

      .

24. QUESTION:
    After corrective jaw surgery will my speech impediment leave?
    I have had an underbite since I was born it is genetic, both my mom and dad had an underbite. I couldn't talk till I was four, when the doctor decided to clip my tounge a little to help with my speech problem. I am getting ready to have corrective jaw surgery. They are working on my upper jaw to fix my underbite and taking out my wisdom teeth. Does anybody know if this surgery will help with my speech impediment?

    • ANSWER:

25. QUESTION:
    What is the correct name for corrective underbite surgery?
    I was wondering what is the correct name for corrective underbite surgery?

    • ANSWER:
      Orthognathic surgery.

      Ortho- = straight

      Gnathos = jaw

26. QUESTION:
    Has anyone had corrective surgery for fallen arches?
    I have been told that I need surgery for fallen arches. I have used inserts for my shoes for years, but the pain continues. I have been told that I will need to be in a cast for three months, and then a "boot". I have also been told of the risks involved. I need to make a decision soon, but I am having a terrible time making a decision. Is it too risky? If I don't have it done, what will happen as I age? Any suggestions or comments would be helpful.

    • ANSWER:
      I could help and it wouldn't require you to have surgery, just perform some exercises. If interested, contact me, k.sordo@gmail.com

27. QUESTION:
    Im getting a pectus excavatum corrective surgery how badly will it hurt?
    Im 14 and have a 3.72 on the scale if you don't know the normal its 2.6 The doctor never told me how much it will hurt he just said it will hurt a lot. i have to get epidural after the surgery because of the pain also and a whole lot of pain killers. HOw much do you think?

    • ANSWER:
      Don't worry about it too much. You will have wonderful pain killers and anesthetic.

      I found a blog someone wrote about their experience with pectus excavatum. I'd recommend reading all of it to calm your fears.

28. QUESTION:
    Is there a way other than Corrective jaw surgery?
    Now that know what corrective jaw surgery is there any way to avoid it? There's something called a heargear which is possible to fix the pronlem but how does it work? Is braces required at that moment? Are headgears painful? Any other way than a headgear?

    • ANSWER:
      IF YOU ARE ALREADY PAST PUBERTY, THEN TO CORRECT A JAW PROBLEM, THERE IS NO ALTERNATIVE OTHER THAN SURGERY.

      OF LATE THERE IS SOMETHING CALLED DISTRACTION OSTEOGENESIS, BUT THIS ALSO NEEDS SURGERY AND THEN THE JAW IS SLOWLY EXPANDED WITH AND APPLIANCE...BUT SURGERY IS STILL DONE.

      HEADGEARS WILL ONLY WORK IN CASES WHERE YOUR TOP JAW IS TOO FORWARD.

      IF YOUR CASE IS NOT TOO SEVERE, THEN YOU CAN TRY CAMOUFLAGE TREATMENT, MEANING THAT THE TEETH WILL ONLY BE TREATED TO TRY AND HIDE THE SKELETAL PROBLEM, BUT THIS IS ONLY DONE IN CASES THAT ARE MODERATE, BUT RELAPSE ALSO IS HIGH IN SUCH CASES.

      IF YOUR LOWER JAW IS TOO BACK, THEN A HERBST APPLIANCE MAY WORK. IT IS A FIXED ROD THAT IS PUT IN YOUR MOUTH ON YOUR TEETH (NO SURGERY) TO GET YOUR LOWER TEETH AND JAW FORWARD. RELAPSE IS ALSO A PROBLEM HERE.

      SURGERY IS NOT SO BAD ACTUALLY. IT IS THE BEST ALTERNATIVE ACTUALLY TO LONG TERM STABILITY IN SEVERE CASES.

      ASK YOUR ORTHODONTIST TO ASSIST YOU WITH AN ALTERNATE TREATMENT PLAN.

29. QUESTION:
    My pcp referred me to a specialist for corrective jaw surgery. why do the specialist want me in braces first?
    my jaw is not aligned and also misshaped on the lower half. How do I inform them braces are a waste until after the corrective surgery. Which is not cosmetic because of the pain and other medical problems it brings on. Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      To move the jaw as far as possible before surgery will result in less amount of surgery later. This means much much less pain after surgery, less swelling (which can block your airway), and less painful. ( these people hurt very badly. Their entire head is swollen. Nose blocked from swelling. Good bit of swelling around throat area. Some people end up on a ventalator(life support).

30. QUESTION:
    how much does cherry eye corrective surgery cost?
    my sisters dog, a chihuahua about 4 months old has cherry eye, it barely appeared a few weeks ago. i've noticed that it comes and goes depending on her level of stress, when she gets really mad it pops out, it shes calm it goes back in.

    i was wondering how much does surgery cost, in az, to put it back in place?

    • ANSWER:
      that is something you would have to discuss with your vet. all vets have different pricing. don't necessarily go with the cheapest though, go with the one you trust.

31. QUESTION:
    Can you have corrective surgery on a tilted uterus?
    My friend said she got corrective surgery on her tilted uterus and i dont believe her...is she lying to me??

    • ANSWER:
      She's not lying, there is a procedure to fix this.

32. QUESTION:
    How to pay for gender corrective surgery?
    I want total MLD flap Phalloplasty, vaginetomy, hhysterectomy etc. complete top surgery, and monthly T injections. How do i pay for it all? I haven't started, but the plan is to start as soon as i get the okay from the psychologist.

    • ANSWER:
      save...save early and save often.

33. QUESTION:
    What is the name for the corrective surgery on a bi-cornuate uterus?
    I'm trying to find the right doctor online and figure out prices and such, but I need to know the medical name for the surgery.

    • ANSWER:
      Not a simple answer....depends on your medical condition and uterus. Sometimes you do not need surgery to fix the problem at all. A doctor is the only one who can answer this, one that has seen your uterus and can determine what needs to be done. It isn't like Lipo or Breast Implants, extra hours may be needed (additional anesthesia). Best to find a good doctor and then just pay what it takes to make sure you are healthy in the end. Good Luck.

34. QUESTION:
    Im a glaucoma patient and had a trabeculectomy done. Can I get eye corrective surgery like Lasik?
    After the trabeculectomy surgery my eye's pressure is stable. Are there other Laser correction options I might use?

    • ANSWER:
      Yes and no.
      There's nothing inherent in the trabeculectomy procedure that directly affects the cornea (or at least the parts that refractive surgery involves), so it's not impossible to do both. The problem is convincing a surgeon that he should do an elective procedure on what amounts to a diseased eye -- even if your pressures are stable now, there's no guarantee that will remain the case indefinitely, and thinning the corneas via surgery makes it much more difficult to monitor pressures. There are other laser and non-laser refractive surgeries, but it's still the same problem of doing surgery on an eye that has some preexisting problems.
      Your best bet is to call around different surgery centres and say up front "Look, I have glaucoma, it was treated ___ years ago and my pressures are ___, will you still consider me as a patient?" Every surgeon has their own criteria, and they'll let you know one way or the other.

35. QUESTION:
    Should my sister with Down's syndrome undergo corrective Jaw surgery?
    My 16 y/o sister w/ down's has been in braces for a few years awaiting corrective Jaw surgery as her top teeth fit into her bottom in the back. Recently the doctor said there is a slim chance it could go back some after the surgery. I was wondering if the surgery is worth it? Has anyone done this on a down's person?

    • ANSWER:
      There are a couple things worth considering here: First, the doctor said it was a 'slim' chance that the jaw could go back, so that makes it sound like a good choice, plus correcting the problem is very positive; but the second thing is how your sister will handle the surgery and the follow up. Will her mouth be wired shut? What is her mental state? How does she handle pain? How does her problem affect her now and what would be the prognosis for her without the surgery? Only your family can answer those questions.

36. QUESTION:
    Nerve damage in left eye. Will laser corrective surgery still work?
    If I have nerve damage in my left eye that prohibits glasses from correcting my vision, will laser corrective surgery still work or will I always have a bit more trouble seeing out of my left eye?

    • ANSWER:
      Most likely, no, like he said....but the best thing to always do with medical questions is to ask the doctor that you have been seeing about your options, that way you know that someone who knows your specific case is giving you the best advice.

37. QUESTION:
    Anyone know what corrective surgery might cost for cherry eye?

    Thats what I have, a beagle pup. 12 weeks old. Is your dog ok now? I keep reading that they may develop dry eye after surgery.

    • ANSWER:
      my mom's english bulldog had it and it cost around 0, they give you eye drops and a tube of clear antibiotic cream to squirt in their eye, after a week or two they are good as new

38. QUESTION:
    Can you improve your eyesight without glasses or corrective surgery?
    I noticed that my vision got progressively worse each time my prescription was increased. Now it has plateaued. I've had the same prescription for over 5 years. Is there any way to make my vision better, naturally?
    I read some where that your eyes become lazy and that is the reason for increase in prescription. Maybe it was just a myth.

    • ANSWER:
      You have it backwards...your prescription increased because your vision got worse.

      Your eyes didn't get worse because the prescription was increased.

39. QUESTION:
    Considering corrective vision surgery, have you had it?
    I currently wear contact lenses/glasses for nearsightedness. I am considering having corrective vision surgery (laser, lasik, etc..). I am wondering if anyone else has had it done for nearsightedness and if you would recommend it? Any information would be helpful, thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      Vision correction surgery is etching your prescription on to your eyeballs. Most people with artificial corrections(glasses, contacts, lasik) have experienced that their vision is blurry again after 1 to 3 years.

      Artificial corrections do not deal with the real issues of blurry vision so vision tends to get worse and worse year after year.

40. QUESTION:
    How much does corrective laser eye surgery cost?
    I'm seeking to get that since I wear glasses. I hate glasses so I use to wear contacts for about a year or so but then they got lost or dried up. I don't quite remember so now I'm seeking to get corrective laser eye surgery.

    I'm gonna see if I can get it with my insurance but I'd also like to know how much it costs. Does anyone know ? Of an estimate or exact cost ? Thanks !

    • ANSWER:
      With LASIK surgery you will generally get what you pay for: the more experienced surgeons with the more advanced technology will charge more for LASIK. Here in Southern California you could probably find someone good who would charge in the range of ,500-3,800 per eye.

      Probably the most important decision someone who is considering LASIK must make is what surgeon to choose. Although I do not perform LASIK, I have created a document for my cataract patients to help them in choosing a surgeon. The article can be viewed by clicking this link:

      http://sgveye.com/en/resources/35-about-your-eyes/233-10-things-you-must-know-before-choosing-your-cataract-surgeon

      The advice in this document can be applied to choosing any surgeon in any specialty, not just cataract surgeons.

      Sincerely,

      David D. Richardson, M.D.
      Medical Director

      San Gabriel Valley Eye Associates, Inc.
      207 S. Santa Anita Street, Suite P-25
      San Gabriel, CA 91776
      626.289.7856

41. QUESTION:
    Would I be able to get corrective vision surgery?
    Are there certain conditions that could exemption one from corrective vision surgery? The main thing I'm worried about is the fact that my vision is terrible. I've had glasses since sixth grade and my vision has only gotten worse since then (I'm a senior in high school now). Currently I can't even read text without my glasses unless it is a foot from my face and I'm nearsighted. So if this could exempt me from corrective vision surgery or if there are any other things which could exempt me please tell me.

    • ANSWER:
      Very high myopia ( nearsightedness) can only be corrected to a certain extent...there are limitations how high they can go.

      Then there is also a lack of corneal thickness which is often a problem with high myopes, that can make you unsuitable.

      There is also the quantity and quality of tear flow that can make you unsuitable.

      Your only way to know for sure is to wait until you are around 20 , then go for a consultation at a laser clinic where they will do a few tests to see if you are a good candidate or not.

42. QUESTION:
    Can I make a doctor pay for corrective surgery from a previous surgery screwup?
    wife went in for a hysterectomy. doctor slipped and cut her rectum so now she is in a colostomy bag. she goes in for a reversal soon and just wondering if there is any way to make the doctor be the one to cough up the bill on that since she would never been needing that surgery if he did the first one right

    • ANSWER:
      Yes... I would think a medical malpractice suit is in order here. I would certainly contact a lawyer in your area that specializes in this type of law.... I would think you would be awarded monetary compensation to cover the old surgery, the new surgery, your lawyers fees, and pain & suffering too. Did the original doctor ever apologize, or offer to fix his/her error? (Not that an apology is sufficient enough to make up for the problems caused but, it would help your case if you had it in writing.) OMG, I'm so sorry to hear your wife is going through all this... and you too. :0( Best wishes that the original surgeon is held accountable.

43. QUESTION:
    What vision is required to participate in all Army Ranger operations? Also is corrective surgery an option?
    I am a recruit for 11B at the moment and will be attending Ranger school eventually but I had a few concerns on the vision portion. I had a eye exam and they said i was correctable to around 20/20 in my left eye and 20/25 in my right. I asked my recruiter and he said i should be fine but I just wanted to get a second opinion.

    • ANSWER:
      Unless you have an 11X Opt 40 contract, allowing you to try out for the 75th Ranger Regt. You will not be doing any Ranger operations, you will be conventional infantry .. you can go to Ranger School later, but it's just a school .. doesn't mean you're a Ranger and you still won't be doing Ranger Operations as you'll be in a conventional infantry unit. Make sure you understand that and talk to your recruiter again if you want to be a Ranger .. if you just want to go to Ranger School, understand that you have to put in a request to attend unless you get an assignment that requires you go .. it's not a guarantee.

      As for the vision,:

      Paragraph 2-13 AR40-501 standards of medical fitness. paragraph 5-3 are the additional requirements for Ranger school which Bn follows as well.

      http://www.usarec.army.mil/hq/warrant/download/AR%2040-501%2020040219.pdf

      g. Eyes and vision.
      (1) Paragraphs 2–12 and 2–13 with exceptions noted below.
      (2) For Airborne and Ranger training: Distant visual acuity of any degree that does not correct to at least 20/20 in
      one eye and 20/100 in the other eye within 8 diopters of plus or minus refractive error, with spectacle lenses.

      As for surgery, PRK and LASIK is allowed and you won't need a waiver to attend Ranger School so long as you've had the surgery at least 3 months prior to attending, otherwise you'll have to have a waiver.

44. QUESTION:
    I have been told I have to have corrective surgery on my lower jaw?
    as it protrudes and I have a very uneven bite. First though I have to go through orthodontic treatment. I feel I have left this too late at 28 yrs old but I really want to go through with it. Has anyone out there (preferably the UK) had this type of surgery before ?? Did you look a lot different afterwards ?
    thanks

    • ANSWER:
      I had jaw surgery 5 years ago. When I was 17. I look totally different than I did before the surgery. It was the best decision I have made. I found growing up I was really self conscious of my teeth and it was immediately rewarding after surgery (I had an open bite, and a class III malocclusion)
      And its never too late! If its something you really want to do, just go for it!
      Best of luck!

45. QUESTION:
    Is there corrective surgery for vision that has deteriorated with age?
    Distance vision is still fine but reading is more difficult now.

    • ANSWER:
      They can laser reshape your cornea to eliminate the need for reading glasses. The problem is the lens loosing it's flexibility as you age. Do the best you can with what you got!

46. QUESTION:
    Should Prince Edward pay for corrective surgery for his daughter so she can at last enjoy a game of darts?
    Now, sadly, when she plays most of the darts hit her brother.
    Sunny : You misunderstand me. I ask this question as I am genuinely concerned that her brother could be injured by a misdirected dart.
    Roy: As I said my question is motivated by concern over any harm that could come to her brother from a misdirected dart.

    • ANSWER:
      I've said it before, and I'll say it again. It's high time social workers stepped in and removed that child from her neglectful home. In this day and age where bullying runs rampant and child suicides are at an all time high we must do what we can to raise awareness against and prevent bullying. That poor girl will be ripped to shreds in school like a piece of meat inside a lion's den.

      I urge each and every one of you to call childline and report the Earl and Countess of Wessex.

47. QUESTION:
    Breast augmentation: Has anyone had to have corrective surgery because the breasts were different sizes after?
    I had breast increase size (saline) completed and one is larger than the other. I have over a week before I see the doc again and I unsatisfied with the results; one was filled more than the other and noticable. Has this happened to anyone? Now what do I do or ask the doc to consider? Seems there would be a more scientific way to get this done so this wouldn't happen.

    • ANSWER:
      Just about every woman has one breast which is bigger than the other. When I had my augmentation 7 years ago, my left breast needed 330 CCs and my right 365 CCs.

      After the surgery you have swelling but both breasts should be very close to the same size. If you can see a significant difference? Your plastic surgeon, to put it bluntly, screwed up.

      You should have been told at your last consultation how many CCs were needed in each breast in order to balance them.

      I would not wait a week. Call the office & tell them what is going on & get in there sooner. The implant MAY be leaking. If so, I think it needs to be removed very soon. It is either that or the surgeon did not do the right job.

      Honestly sweetie, you should not be able to tell a difference.

48. QUESTION:
    Bowed Legs in Adults - What causes Adult Bow Legs and is corrective surgery the only option?
    I'm interested in learning about alternative treatments as well.

    • ANSWER:
      The curvature of the leg, starting from the thigh bone down to the knee joint and the ankle, causes bowed legs in adults. It can be a correctable condition or a deformity (genu varum) requiring surgery.

      As babies and toddlers, we all have bandy legs because we're just learning to crawl or walk and the joints / muscles haven't fully developed yet. As we come out of infancy, the bowed legs too correct themselves naturally by age 3 or 5.

      If the problem persists well into teenage or adulthood then the remedies for it are either physical therapy (including postural alignment) or orthopedic corrective surgery. Adult bow legs respond to either kind of treatment based on leg type and bone curvature.

      http://bowlegsremedy.annics.com

49. QUESTION:
    What are ways to treat scoliosis without using corrective surgery or a brace?

    • ANSWER:
      Exercise, Pilate's seek out a PT and ask for Pilate's exercise for the problem. Happy 2008

50. QUESTION:
    Can I Undergo Corrective Surgery For My Eyesight To Become a Pilot?
    Is Lasik A Good Option And Will Any Airlines.Hire Me As a Pilot If I undergo LASIK?

    • ANSWER:
      Certain corrective surgery (LASIK, etc.) may leave scar tissue that especially affects night vision (because light is reflected from the scar). It might be wise to contact an airline pilot's association to help select the correct surgery technique and be sure it will not automatically exclude you from consideration. Also consult with a prospective surgeon and be sure he/she knows your goal (they should know how this problem is being solved). The amount and type of correction may also play a role in the decision (how nearsighted/farsighted with astigmatism?)