A new report published in the New Zealand Herald is calling into question the long-term benefits of laser eye operations. According to the Herald, a new study has shown that patients who have undergone laser surgery for near-sightedness are susceptible to haze, glare and blurred vision when they reach their 60s and 70s.

One of the researchers, Otago University head of ophthalmology Anthony Molteno, told the Herald that the new findings may lead to substantial legal class actions in the future.

The typical laser procedure involves flattening the cornea to improve vision. However, the new findings have found that flattening the cornea can affect the movement of corneal cells, which may lead to adverse effects in the future.

“The question is, is this permanent, and is it going to increase in the normal manner with age?” Molteno told the Herald. “If so, a lot are going to have a hazy, soft, fuzzy view of society as they get older. This is a long-term effect, and we are following these people. If this turns out to be a major effect, I presume it will one day see a major class action suit.”

Either way, patients considering laser eye surgery will need to closely assess the risks associated with the procedure. The fear now is that patients opting for surgery to improve their eyesight today may be sacrificing their vision in their golden years.

This entry was posted on Friday, December 1st, 2006 at 6:13 pm and is filed under Health Concerns.