If you have a refractive error, such as nearsightedness (myopia),farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism or presbyopia, refractive surgery is a method for correcting or improving your vision. There are various surgical procedures for correcting or adjusting your eye’s focusing ability by reshaping the cornea (the clear front part of your eye). Other procedures involve implanting a lens inside your eye. The most widely performed type of refractive surgery is LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis), where a laser is used to reshape the cornea.
For people who are nearsighted, certain refractive surgery techniques will reduce the steepness of a cornea so that the eye’s focusing power is lessened. Images that were focused in front of the retina would then be focused at the back of the eye creating a clear image.
Farsighted people will have refractive surgery procedures that achieve a steeper cornea to increase the eye’s focusing power. Images that were focused beyond the retina would then be focused at the back of the eye creating a clear image.
Astigmatism can be corrected with refractive surgery techniques that selectively reshape portions of an irregular cornea to make it smooth and symmetrical. The result is that images focus clearly on the retina rather than being distorted due to light scattering through an irregularly shaped cornea.
Refractive surgery might be a good option for you if you:
- Want to decrease your dependence on glasses or contact lenses;
- Are free of eye disease;
- Accept the inherent risks and potential side effects of the procedure;
- Understand that you could still need glasses or contacts after the procedure to achieve your best vision;
- Have an appropriate eyeglass prescription.
There is no universally-accepted, best method for correcting refractive errors. The first step is a to come in for an thorough eye exam. We can help you assess your options, understand
the risks and help to decide if the procedure is right for you. Call the office or book online. We are here to help.