Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is where distant objects appear blurry while nearby objects are clear. Over 30% of the U.S. population has myopia.
Myopia is commonly corrected with glasses or contact lenses. But, if you want a longer-term solution, you may consider laser eye surgery.
LASIK is a type of laser eye surgery and is an effective option for correcting nearsightedness.
What Is LASIK?
Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a refractive surgery in which a laser is used to reshape the cornea, the clear dome covering the front of the eye, to improve its focusing ability, allowing light to properly focus on the retina.
LASIK is 98.5% successful when correcting nearsightedness and myopic astigmatism.
An ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) will perform the LASIK procedure by creating a tiny flap on the surface of your eye with a laser. They then sculpt the tissue underneath using a computer-programmed laser before replacing the flap.
LASIK recovery times are relatively quick. Most people have clear vision within a day and experience continuously improved vision over the 3-month healing time. Many individuals will have stable and clear vision by month 6.
However, although LASIK surgery can greatly improve vision and reduce your need for glasses or contacts, some people may still require visual aids due to conditions such as presbyopia, residual astigmatism, or high prescription levels.
The Benefits of LASIK
LASIK gives you visual freedom and, as such, can be life-changing. If you have myopia and are considering LASIK, you might want to consider all the benefits before making a final decision.
Convenience
LASIK provides incredible convenience.
LASIK surgery offers a range of lifestyle benefits. You won’t have to worry about losing or damaging your glasses or carrying extra contacts. No more constant adjustments, cleaning, and the frustration of misplacing your glasses. You can play sports without fearing breaking your glasses or struggling with safety goggles at work. And you can wear any sunglasses without the hassle of prescription lenses.
These changes can have a profound impact on your lifestyle.
Cost-Effective
In the long run, LASIK eye surgery may save you money compared to glasses or contacts. The upfront cost might seem high, but once you get LASIK, you won’t have to refill your contacts supply or update your glasses prescription as often.
LASIK can reduce the ongoing costs and maintenance hassles of prescription eyewear.
Increased Quality of Life
LASIK surgery has been shown to improve the quality of life for individuals with myopia. Research studies indicate that those who undergo refractive surgery like LASIK experience a better quality of life than those who wear glasses or contact lenses. This improvement in quality of life can be attributed to the convenience and freedom from constantly relying on corrective eyewear.
Fast Recovery Time
LASIK eye surgery is a quick procedure that typically takes around 15 minutes for both eyes. After the surgery, you may experience some discomfort and blurry vision for the first couple of days, but most people feel comfortable enough to return to work or normal activities within a few days. You will need to avoid strenuous activities and swimming for a couple of weeks, but overall, the recovery time is fast and easy.
Who Is a Candidate for LASIK?
Not everyone who has myopia can opt for LASIK. You need to meet specific eligibility criteria to undergo the surgery:
- You must be 18 or older.
- Your refractive error (myopia) should be stable for at least a year.
- Your cornea needs to be the right thickness to support the procedure.
- Your eyes should be healthy, and you should not have any ocular diseases or health conditions affecting LASIK surgery’s safety and efficacy.
The Life-Changing Benefits of LASIK for Myopia
Living with myopia can be challenging, particularly if you rely on glasses or contact lenses. However, LASIK eye surgery offers a convenient and life-changing solution.
If you’re interested in LASIK, you will need a laser eye surgery consultation to review your eye health, vision, and eligibility. This consultation is essential to discuss your visual goals and concerns and understand the benefits and risks of LASIK.
Our team provides comprehensive laser eye surgery consultations. Book an appointment with your eye doctor at Total Vision Del Mar.
