Q: I actually live in Italy but still have a residence in LA. I've recently had a test in Italy for Lasik surgery and was told that I am a good candidate. The Lasik model they would use is Bausch and Lomb. What are your professional thoughts of this system compared to the others? A: You can obtain excellent results with any of the top systems, including B&L. Andrew Caster, MD Beverly HIlls, CA

Q: Original procedure produced slight (but noticable) residual astig. in right eye. 4 months later had right eye enhancement procedure and this made vision in right eye very blurry. this has remained blurry for 5 weeks now. Surgeon has determined that I'm now farsighted in that eye. A) is it advisable and B) How long should I wait before risking a third procedure on the same eye to bring me back to plano ? A: Wait at least 3-6 months. Andrew Caster, MD

Q: I just received an examination to determine if I can get lasik surgery. I am far-sighted with 20/70 vision. My surgery has been scheduled next week. I was also told I have cataracts developing in both eyes (apparently due to a lot of sun exposure), covering large areas of the eyes. These would probably have to be removed sometime in the futue. How will cataract surgery affect the results of lasik surgery. Should I wait on the lasik surgery? A: If your cataracts are advanced, then wait on the Lasik and get the cataract surgery first. Andrew Caster, MD

Q: Can Lasik correct astigmatism due to nearsightedness? What are the advantages and disadvantages? A: Most people with nearsightedness also have astigmatism, and that can be corrected with Lasik. Andrew Caster, MD

Q: My husband is considering LASIK surgery for correction of ambliopia (from childhood) in his right eye. He has been evaluated and they say they should be able to obtain up to 20/50 acuity. They do have WaveScan laser for aberration correction. What have been the statistics for successful restoration of vision in adults with LASIK? A: Vision is correctable usually up to the level that it can be corrected with glasses. Andrew Caster, MD

Q: What are the pro's and con's of cutting the corneal flap by Microkeratome verses using IntraLase Laser. What if the doctor I choose use's Microkeratome and not IntraLase, or vice versa? Should i look else where? A: I don't think that there is any appreciable difference, and I whave been using both for many years. Andrew Caster, MD

Q:  I recently had eye exam and the Doctor said that I have mild "narrow angle claucoma" and gave me a list of over the counter drugs which enhances and advances the problem and that i must avoid these drugs. The only otc drug i take is Tylenol PM every night. Is it necessary not to take the tylenol? If so what can i take in its place? I am very sensitive to prescribed sleeping pills and must avoid. ( my wife has the problem) Thank you! Ed Gaffney A: I would follow the list that your doctor gave you. You might want to get a second opinion from a glaucoma specialist. Andrew Caster, MD

Q: I am nearsighted. (left -6.5 diopter, right -6.5 diopter) I also have astigmatism (1.5?) My pupil size is 5mm. My cornea's thickness is 503-507. The doctor say I won't be able to get an enhansement due to the thin cornea. Is "Radarvision" is a far better choise then "Nidek"? Radar vision cost double. Could you explain what diffrence these lasers would make for me? Thank you for your time. A: The lasers differ, just as cars or televisions or computers vary. Each laser manufacturer says that theirs is the best, but LadarVision does seem able to command a higher price from the doctors, which they pass on to the patients. Andrew Caster, MD

Q: I plan on getting the custom lasik eye surgery done soon and I'm on the computer a lot is it safe on my eyes to look at the computer for hours after I have this surgery done? A: Yes. But remember to blink to keep your eyes miost. Andrew Caster, MD

Q: Hi - I was wondering if I would be able to wear contacts after LASIK if they were not able to correct my eyesight competely and also - does the flap always stay on your eye or does it heal? Thank you so much for your answers - I really appreciate it! Heather A: You can usually wear contact lenses in the rare situation where you might need them. Andrew Caster, MD