Corneal surgery

Alternative names:

nearsightedness surgery; radial keratotomy

Expectations after surgery:

Long-range follow-up studies of people who have had the procedure indicate that slightly more than one-half reported that their vision was fully corrected. Approximately one-fourth reported partially corrected vision with a continuing need for glasses or contact lenses. About 15 percent reported over corrected vision, so that they became farsighted. One percent experienced serious complications.

Convalescence:

The procedure is done on an outpatient basis. It takes only 15 to 30 minutes, with the person under local anesthesia. An eye patch or dark glasses are worn for several days, although recovery can take several months.