To operate or not to operate-Updated

[laurasmom]

Laura has been wearing glasses for 11 years. She has a degree of farsightedness, but mainly wears the glasses to help correct an eye that turns in.

Her opthalomologist has now said that surgery is a definite option, but still elective. He said there is a chance the surgery would not be effective, there is a very small chance of over correction, and there is a good chance she could come out not needing glasses full time, or at all.

So, our dilemma
1. She has done well with glasses for 11 years, why mess with this.
2. Lets give her the chance, if the surgery corrects the eye than we have definitely come out ahead.

I am totally torn. I don't want to put her through surgery unless it is needed, and this of course can be looked at as a quality of life thing. But he couldn't guarantee me no glasses needed, but he also said there was a good chance she wouldn't need glasses.

Lots of thinking and praying going on here.

Anyone else had a similar situation?
Sharon

[Googsmom aka Jennifer]

{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}} I send big hugs!!!!

[wrblack]

Ho boy! I don't know. You will have to weigh the risks and benefits.
I assume you're looking at strabismus surgery. Would it help if someone drew a picture for you?

www.aapos.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=242

Just two ideas.
What does Laura have to say about this? I'd ask her even if I wasn't going to leave the decision to her, which I don't think I would.
I've heard pretty good things, for the most part, about the Storm Eye Institute, Medical University of South Carolina,
www.muschealth.com/eyes
Wonder if there's somebody there who would be good for a second opinion? And if that would help your decision making? Not much point in asking for a second opinion if you're not going to listen to it.
Oh, tertium quid, did ophthalmologist mention that eye muscle surgery often takes a second procedure to get it just right?
Sorry not much help. -- Bob

[laurasmom]

Well, after much thought, we made our decision.
If everything goes well with insurance stuff, Laura will have the surgery on Friday. I guess the clincher was when my mom called me and told me that Laura had told her about the surgery, and how she hoped she wouldn't have to wear glasses. That helped make the decision. And I have to admit, the other night when I couldn't sleep, one thought did come to my mind.......and I hate to admit this, but I know I can here.......I asked myself "if this was Kelly, would you hesitate?" I know, what a burden to place on myself, but also a needed one.

Bob, thanks for the info. We have been seeing Dr. Saunders at the Storm Eye Institute for 7 years. I really like him, and have a good deal of confidence in him.
I looked at the other site also, a good site, and good information. As always, thanks for your help.

So, we will find out Thursday what time we go Friday. I will keep y'all updated!

Thanks,
Sharon

[Googsmom aka Jennifer]

{{{{{HUGS Sharon and Laura}}}}}

[Emilysmom]

Positive thoughts and prayers for Laura on Friday!

[Ericsmomma]

thoughts and prayers on their way from Ohio.....let us know how it goes