Where did the summer go?

Where did the summer go?

Some new developments since my last entry.  My bladder cancer procedure has been moved up to 8/31.  And, yesterday I had my annual check-up with Dr Song at Mass Eye and Ear in Waltham.  

I've been going to Dr Song for a number of years since my chemo therapy (the gift that keeps giving) caused a cataract in my right eye.  About 5 years ago, Dr Song performed laser surgery to remove my cataract so I took that opportunity to have in-ocular lens (IOL) implanted.  After a consult it was decided that the lens would provide better distance vision.  At the time my left eye had a 'slow growing' cataract and the end result was near 20/20 vision. It's referred to as 'mono vision' the brain adjusts and corrects what it sees.

 

Over this last year, I really noticed that my left eye (cataract) was worsening. It seemed like I had vaseline smeared on my eye and my vision was obviously not clear. I don't wear glasses but noticed I needed more light when reading.  In addition I noticed that the TV didn't seem as clear to me.  Luckily my right eye was carrying the vision load and I was still able to function 'normally'.  But as of late, I found myself rubbing my left eye and it seemed to be tearing much more.  So when I had my appointment I was expecting that my next step would be cataract surgery and implanting of an IOL for reading (near sighted).  The doctor did indicate that I had an astigmatism and there might be a chance that I would need reading glasses (or cheaters).  He also indicate that I may need to hold reading material closer than I had been.  But he also said that it might be just fine.

I do recall the 'break in' period of adjustment and dealing with the halo effect that eventually cleared up.  So I'm prepared for the body's adjustment.

So, September will be a busy one health-wise.  Already four appointments booked.  I do recall that the most difficult part was the regimen of eye drops.  Small price to pay for better vision.

 

Post Script:

Had a call from Dr. Song's office.  It sounded like a review of the measurements showed that my astigmatism had changed (?).  They asked if I could come in the next day to be measured again.  I do recall that the doctor said something about a need to re-measure because my eyes were dialated.  I guess that had something to do with it.

 

I arrived a very busy waiting room.  It wasn't too long before I was called.  I sat in front of two machines and the attendant once completing the tests, said that the doctor wanted to talk to me.  Hmmm, sounded ominous.

 

I waited for Doctor Song and once he was free he discussed the new developments. Apparently, for my astigmatism, the lens we discussed would not work.  I had two options: get a lens and a have to wear prescription glasses for reading or, have a Toric lens implanted.  I had a Toric implanted on my other eye.  Unfortunately the Toric was an additional thousand dollars.  I'm worth it and vision is important so I chose to pay the additional amount.  However, the person who takes the money was not in the office.  He indicated that she would call me.  [As of this writing 8/31, I haven't had a call back.  I did call the office today but got a voice mail.  I'm sure they will find me]

More to come!