In short, yes, LASIK surgery is highly effective for correcting both nearsightedness and farsightedness.
- Refractive error correction. LASIK permanently changes the shape of the cornea to focus light correctly.
- High success rates. Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after the procedure.
- Long-term results. The vision improvements provided by laser eye surgery are typically permanent.
Myopia correction is the primary goal for millions of people who wish to reduce their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. It is a safe and proven method to address refractive errors that cause blurry vision.
If you struggle to see objects at a distance or have difficulty focusing on things up close, laser eye surgery may be the solution. This article explores how LASIK works for both conditions and what you can expect from the procedure.
What Are Refractive Errors?
Refractive errors refers to when the eye cannot bend light properly. This results in a blurred image on the retina. The two most common types are nearsightedness and farsightedness.
Myopia, or nearsightedness, occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. Distant objects appear blurry while close objects remain clear.
Hyperopia, or farsightedness, happens when the eyeball is too short or the cornea is too flat. Light focuses behind the retina. This makes close objects look blurry, though distant objects may also be unclear in severe cases.
How Does LASIK Work for Myopia Correction?
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is the most common laser eye surgery performed today. It works by reshaping the cornea to correct how light enters the eye.
For myopia correction, the laser flattens the curve of the cornea. This allows light to focus directly on the retina rather than in front of it. The procedure is precise and customized to the unique eye measurements of the patient.
Can LASIK Provide Farsightedness Treatment?
Many people associate laser surgery strictly with nearsightedness, but it is also an excellent option for farsightedness treatment. The goal remains the same: reshaping the cornea to improve light focus.
To treat hyperopia, the surgeon uses the laser to create a steeper cornea. This involves removing tissue from the outer edge of the cornea rather than the center. This adjustment moves the focal point forward onto the retina.
However, there are limits to the amount of correction possible. Patients with very high degrees of farsightedness may not be eligible for LASIK. Your doctor will perform a comprehensive exam to determine if your prescription falls within the treatable range.
What Are the Alternatives to LASIK?
Not everyone is a perfect candidate for LASIK. Some patients may have corneas that are too thin to safely create the corneal flap required for the surgery. In these cases, doctors often recommend PRK (photorefractive keratectomy).
PRK was the first type of laser eye surgery for vision correction and remains a popular alternative. During PRK, the surgeon removes the outer layer of the cornea entirely before using the laser to reshape it. This eliminates the need for a flap.
The visual outcomes for PRK are comparable to those of LASIK. The main difference lies in the recovery time. PRK patients usually require a few days of discomfort and a longer period for vision to stabilize compared to LASIK patients.
Am I a Candidate for Myopia Correction?
Determining candidacy is the first step toward a clear vision. While myopia correction is successful for many, certain criteria must be met to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Age requirement – You must be at least 18 years old.
- Stable prescription – Your vision must not have changed significantly in the last year.
- Healthy eyes – You should be free of eye diseases or infections.
- Corneal thickness – You must have sufficient corneal tissue.
Certain medical conditions may affect your eligibility. For example, uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders can impact healing.
Schedule Your Consultation for Myopia Correction in Coral Gables, FL
If you are ready to explore your options for clearer vision, professional guidance is essential. Myopia correction can significantly improve your quality of life by reducing your dependence on corrective lenses.
At The Laser Center of Coral Gables, we are dedicated to providing personalized care and advanced vision solutions. Our experienced team will evaluate your eyes to determine if LASIK or another refractive procedure is right for you.
Do not let refractive errors hold you back any longer. Contact us today at (305) 461-0003 or use our form to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward visual freedom.
