RK followed by Lasik

This eye underwent RK surgery in the 1980’s followed by LASIK surgery about 12 years later. This eye now has post-LASIK corneal ectasia which developed a few years after the LASIK surgery. This eye also has epithelial ingrowth. Note the thick grey white discoloration at 10:00 in this photo. This is a cluster of epithelial cells (the cells lining the outer surface of the cornea) that have gotten underneath the LASIK flap where they do not belong. In the center of the cornea opposite the pupil note the “glitter” or brightly colored debris. These are epithelial cells that have migrated (under the LASIK flap) to the center of the cornea and have deposited along the visual axis or line of vision. The green radial lines seen in this photo are the open RK incisions, still open after all these years. I saw this patient today and also one year ago. This eye appears the same as it did last year. However, yearly examinations are necessary to make sure that the cornea and eye remain stable. I have been taking care of this patient for the past 10 years. Both of her eyes were fit with scleral lenses which are allowing her to see clearly and comfortably.