Myopia, also known as near nearsightedness, is one of the most common eye disorders. As a result, there are many options to correct myopia, including surgical procedures. These surgical procedures generally fall under the category of laser eye surgery. There are several options within laser eye surgery that can be used to correct myopia. With that in mind, here are the options that you can choose and a breakdown of their pros and cons for treating myopia.
Different Types of Laser Eye Surgery
Before laser eye surgery, doctors used a procedure called radial keratotmy to correct the symptoms of myopia. In radial keratotmy, a select number of incisions were made in the cornea to alter its shape and affect how it refracted light. Fortunately, laser eye surgery is a much more simple procedure with a much higher rate of success.
LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is now the preferred form of laser eye surgery because it has a greater depth of treatment in comparison to traditional laser eye surgery. Recovery time on LASIK eye surgery is also quicker and the surgery can be done as an outpatient procedure if no complications occur. LASIK eye surgery is performed by a surgical instrument being used in conjunction with a laser to fold back a flap of the corena and reshape the tissue behind it to correct vision. While complications are not common, do keep in mind that LASIK eye surgery can cause damage if you have thin corneas or have had previous complications from past eye surgeries.
Photorefractive Keratectomy
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is the other major option to correct myopia, and it is an extension of radial keratotmy with the addition of lasers. Prior to the widespread use of LASIK eye surgery, PRK was the standard option for elective eye surgery. PRK uses a laser directly on the surface of the cornea instead of underneath the cornea to reshape the curvature of the eye. It takes about two to three days for the cornea to heal after PRK surgery. If you have a eye condition such as dry eyes, your medical professional may opt for PRK surgery, as it is less likely to complicate existing conditions or disorders.
Ultimately, your medical professional will decide which type of laser eye surgery is the right choice for you. Make sure to heed their advice carefully during your consultation and make an informed decision about how to best clear up myopia and be able to view objects nearby without blurred vision again.