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There has been a lot of coverage of a new paper published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). The paper presents the results of a 10-year study on the long-term stability of refractive surgery. In summary, the study showed that after 10 years, LASIK was incredibly stable - without additional surgery. The subjects in the study (over 300) had nothing done to their eyes after the LASIK procedure.

All the patients had severe nearsightedness - beyond what is now, 10 years later, deemed suitable for LASIK. The subjects had, on average, -12 Diopter myopia, nearly blind. The mean spherical equivalent 10 years after LASIK treatment was less than -1 Diopter - vision easily good enough to drive without glasses. Imagine, going from legally blind and needing glasses to driving without them, even after 10 years. Most of the subjects needed no glasses or contacts after 10 years, while a small fraction required a mild prescription, about 15% of the original, pre-operation strength. 40% of the subjects maintained 20/20 vision throughout the 10 year study.

-12 D Myopia is now considered too severe for LASIK operations. Some subjects has as much as -20 Dipoter myopia. Such drastic correction increases the risk of weakening the cornea. However, this study is an absolute worst-case, with 10-year old technology and techniques and severe correction. Every year there are advances in evaluation, surgical techniques and technology. Ten years has given us great advances in LASIK surgery. Dr. Alió, the author of the study:

"Our technology and our technique now is not comparable to what we had back then. At that time, we had only one microkeratome with a biased way to use the blades, often with an inadequate calibration of the instruments, and with many issues that made, in my opinion, a negative impact on the procedure. Even in this environment, LASIK was very successful. I think that we have learned that if that was true then, today it is going to be even better."

The most common complication as mild eye dryness. With the latest procedures, this would be reduced. Compared to wearing contacts daily, or even glasses, LASIK now is poised to not only be a safe and effective treatment, but a permanent one as well.

What hasn't changed in 10 years? The importance of the ophthalmologist evaluating the patient's requirements and performing the surgery. Your vision is the most important consideration - all the advancement in technology cannot replace the trusted, qualified, and competent surgeon performing the procedure. We now have proof positive of the long-term stability of the procedure, even when done with outdated technology and techniques.

"In my opinion, LASIK is the way to go," says Dr. Alió. I couldn't agree more.