Myopia is an eye condition that usually develops in childhood but can also affect adults, resulting in impaired vision. While treatment for myopia includes corrective lenses to provide vision clarity, adults can have laser eye surgery.
LASIK can treat myopia, however, it’s important to have realistic expectations, as LASIK might only reduce your need for glasses or contact lenses. An eye exam and consultation with your eye doctor can help determine if laser eye surgery is the right treatment option for your needs.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is prevalent worldwide with a rapid global rise among children. This condition occurs because light focuses incorrectly when it enters the eye.
Due to an irregular eye shape, light focuses in front of the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) instead of directly on it. The result is clear near vision and blurry distance vision.
Other symptoms of myopia include:
- Squinting or partially closing the eyes to focus
- Moving closer to objects to see them clearly
- Difficulty doing activities that require good distance vision
- Headaches
- Eye strain
- Tired or sore eyes
Risk for Developing Myopia
Genetics is a risk factor in the development of myopia. Children with parents who have myopia are more likely to develop nearsightedness. Lifestyle and environmental factors such as spending excessive time indoors and on electronic devices can also increase the risk of myopia.
Additionally, certain ethnic groups and occupations that require close-up work may have a higher prevalence of myopia. Awareness of these risks and preventative measures such as regular eye exams and limiting screen time can help maintain healthy vision.
Common Treatments for Myopia
Traditionally, myopia is corrected using the right lenses to provide clear vision. Corrective lenses can include eyeglasses or contact lenses. While these solutions improve vision by helping light focus on the retina, they don’t address the underlying issue of eye shape. That’s where LASIK comes in.
What Is LASIK?
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a refractive surgery performed to improve vision by reshaping the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye) so that light focuses directly on the retina. LASIK surgery can also correct refractive errors, such as farsightedness and astigmatism. It’s a quick outpatient procedure that typically takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.
How Does LASIK Work?
The LASIK procedure involves numbing the eye area and using a laser to create a thin flap in the cornea. After lifting the flap, the tissue underneath is removed or repositioned to allow proper focusing of light on the retina for clear vision.
Most patients experience significant improvements in their vision several months after the surgery, but vision and results may vary. Some individuals may still require glasses or contacts for certain tasks post-surgery. Regular follow-up appointments and proper care after surgery help make sure the eyes heal properly.
Who Is a Candidate for LASIK?
If you wear corrective lenses, you may wonder if you’re eligible for LASIK. Unfortunately, not everyone can have LASIK. Here are several requirements for LASIK eligibility:
- Age: Most surgeons recommend that patients be at least 18 years old.
- Stable prescription: Your glasses or contact lens prescription should be stable for at least one year.
- Healthy eyes: No significant eye problems such as thin corneas.
- General health: Candidates should be in good overall health and not be pregnant or nursing.
- Medication: Candidates should not be on medication that can cause changes in their vision.
Benefits of LASIK Over Glasses & Contact Lenses
There are several benefits to having laser surgery over traditional treatment methods for myopia if you’re a good candidate for LASIK:
- Convenience: Say goodbye to the hassle of daily cleaning and maintenance of eyeglasses and contact lenses.
- Freedom: Enjoy activities like swimming, sports, and travel without vision constraints from glasses and contact lenses.
- Cost-effective: Though it requires an upfront investment, LASIK can save money in the long run by possibly eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Potential Risks of LASIK
While LASIK is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects:
- Dry eyes: Temporary dryness is common post-surgery. However, dry eye therapies can help lubricate the eyes and promote tear production.
- Visual changes: Some patients may experience glare, halos, or light sensitivity, especially at night.
- Flap complications: In rare cases, issues with the corneal flap can occur.
- Eye infection: Proper post-surgery care and follow-up appointments can help prevent eye infections.
Long-Term Outcomes of LASIK
The good news? Most people who undergo LASIK report long-term satisfaction with their improved vision. However, some may still require reading glasses as they age.
Lens-Free Myopia Treatment
LASIK might be a myopia treatment solution if you’re tired of reaching for your glasses every morning or fussing with contact lenses,
To find out if LASIK is right for you, book a LASIK consultation with Total Vision Solana Beach for a comprehensive evaluation and the possibility of a len-free life.
