I had been wearing glasses and contact lenses for 14 years; at one point my refractive error had advanced to -6. Without optical aids, I was unable to read anything or even function normally. I used to ask myself how bad the torture was for people who had even greater refractive error than myself. At one time, I had grown accustomed to medium-hard contact lenses, but while traveling and taking on an ever-busier schedule… I realized that I needed an alternative to glasses and contacts. I had first heard of laser-guided sight correction 9 years ago, but at that time many had grave reservations and were quite skeptical. I decided to wait until the technology had advanced far enough for me to consider it a viable solution to my problem.
About a year ago, my eyes started to reject contact lenses, i.e. I was having prolonged and continual problems. This came as a blow to me, as I had spent 5 relatively trouble-free years. I consulted my ophthalmologist, Dr. Suncica Sreckovic, an excellent practitioner and person. I trusted her fully, and when she advised me not to wear contacts anymore, I was very disappointed. I asked her how she felt about laser surgery and she immediately advised me to seek out Dr. Jankov, of whom I had also heard from other patients. After doing a little research on the Internet I decided to pay him a visit, because, based on his remarkable work and results in his field of specialization I had developed a lot of confidence in his abilities.
I came to the clinic full of hope that I would be able to solve my problem. I was instantly impressed by the exquisite clinic interior and the kind, obliging staff. All necessary examinations were carried out with maximal professionalism. I was overjoyed when I learned that I qualified as a candidate for LASIK surgery. The whole procedure was explained to me in great detail, and I made an appointment to undergo the surgery a month-and-a-half later. My first encounter with Dr. Jankov and his team had inspired a tremendous sense of optimism.
When I told my friends about my decision to undergo laser surgery, many of them expressed reservations and advised me to wait. However, I had firmly made up my mind, and in the days leading up to the operation, I wasn’t even thinking about it. When the day came, I was fully convinced of success, but concurrently a little afraid, as I knew that I would be fully conscious for the entire duration. I knew that there existed a minimal degree of risk, but I deeply believed that everything would go perfectly. I felt a little trepidation upon signing the operation consent form, but I was greatly encouraged by the sight of patients who had been operated on leaving the theatre with smiles on their faces. Dr. Jankov explained the whole procedure to me, second by second, and I completely relaxed. After the operation, I experienced an unbelievable sensation. After so many years of struggling, I was finally able to make out the faces of my loved ones without the help of any glasses or lenses – my happiness knew no bounds. I felt as though something vital and wonderful had occurred in my life. The recovery period was very quick. On the second day, I went back to work and carried on with my new life. It was as though God had sent me a gift via Dr. Jankov and his team.
The crucial part was deciding to take the plunge and believing that within three days I could live a better, more fulfilling life. I concentrated on the way I would feel at the end – free, confident, fulfilled.
Today, I don’t think about it anymore and I’ve carried on with my duties and obligations. But I am a happier, more optimistic, more fulfilled individual. I remember the day of my operation as a positive turning point in my life. It was, for me, a brave step that allowed me to take on life’s challenges with added confidence. It is the reason that I continue to believe that many more beautiful, memorable moments lie in wait for me and I will treasure that day always.
Đorđe Baralić, Kragujevac Serbia