what to do about poor eyesight?

[michael]

Hi - I was just wondering - I am considered to be "legally blind" without correction (Last time I was checked I saw something like 20/600) Though with correction (either glasses or contacts) I see about 20/15. The one time I went surfing I just didn't wear anything. It definitely made things more interesting! Eventually (probably next summer) I'm going to get laser surgery - but until then - what should I do? Would wearing goggles with my contacts on work very well? Thanks!

[jonny]

Well my wife just wears those daily disposable lenses in the water when we surf. That's WITHOUT goggles too - I think in the last few years since she started she's only had one come out once. We've been in some pretty big stuff too - double overhead - and they stayed in fine.

[Brent]

Relax with the contacts...
I have been surfing wearing "monthly disposables" for about 10 years, the brand I wear are made by Johnson & Johnson, model is "surevue".
I have never lost a lens, and it's simply not an issue, it's a common-sense thing to remember to simply close your eyes when bailing or duck-diving. I suggest if you are not confident in doing this, get a free trial pair from your optomertrist (they all offer them) & wear them in the shower ducking your head under the spray with your eyes partially open & just experiment...you'll be quite suprised at how much direct water pressure is required for them to come off.

Actually in some ways we're better off than normal punters as these lenses these days offer 100% UV protection.

Think long & HARD before commiting to laser ops, it's a ONE TIME deal, if you are under 30 years of age, chances are you prescription will change over time (as most people's does) and you'll find yourself needing to wear glasses again several years later (abit a very minor prescription). Remember - when you've been lasered...you'll NEVER be able to wear contacts again. So this option in the future will void if you go ahead.