Refractive Surgery: Correcting Nearsightedness, Farsightedness, Astigmatism & Presbyopia
If you suffer from nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, or presbyopia, you have a refractive error—a common eye condition where light entering your eye does not focus properly on the retina. This improper refraction causes blurred vision at various distances.
Fortunately, many patients with refractive errors are candidates for refractive surgery, a group of procedures designed to reshape the cornea and improve how your eye focuses light. These surgeries can reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
Common Refractive Errors Treated with Surgery
- Nearsightedness (Myopia): Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly while close objects remain in focus.
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Difficulty seeing objects up close while distant vision remains clearer.
- Astigmatism: Irregular curvature of the cornea or lens causing distorted or blurred vision at all distances.
- Presbyopia: An age-related condition typically starting around age 40, causing difficulty focusing on close objects or reading material.
Types of Refractive Surgery
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
The most popular refractive surgery, LASIK uses a laser to reshape the cornea’s surface, allowing light to focus properly on the retina. The procedure is quick, outpatient, and usually results in rapid visual recovery.
Custom or Bladeless LASIK
An advanced form of LASIK that uses a femtosecond laser instead of a blade for creating the corneal flap, offering enhanced precision and safety.
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
This laser surgery reshapes the cornea without creating a flap and is ideal for patients with thinner corneas or other corneal issues.
Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK) & Epi-LASIK
Variations of surface laser surgeries that differ in how the outer corneal cells are managed during the procedure.
Conductive Keratoplasty (CK)
A non-laser procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to reshape the cornea, primarily used for mild farsightedness or presbyopia.
Am I a Candidate for Refractive Surgery?
Your eye care provider will conduct a thorough exam to determine if refractive surgery is right for you. Factors considered include:
- Stability of your vision prescription
- Corneal thickness and shape
- Overall eye health
- Your lifestyle and visual needs
If you want to reduce your dependence on glasses or contacts, schedule a consultation with our eye care team to explore the best refractive surgery option for your unique vision needs.
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