One of the four common refractive errors in the eye, myopia is a medical term used for nearsightedness. It is a condition wherein close objects are seen clearly whereas objects viewed at a distance appear blurry.
Myopia occurs when the eye is incapable to bend or refract light properly. When the eye has a long shape, light rays focus too far from the retina which inhibits distance vision making objects seen from far away difficult to focus.
Nearsightedness can occur both in children and adults. Progressive myopia is the term used for the condition wherein adolescents become progressively myopic as they age.
Corrective eyeglasses, prescription contact lenses, or refractive eye surgery are the three treatment options for nearsightedness. For high myopia LASIK surgery, a form of refractive eye surgery often becomes the option. There advantages and disadvantages though with this method. One advantage is that LASIK is a safe and precise out-patient surgery that provides immediate vision improvement with a short recovery period required. One feature of this method which some may find as a disadvantage is the cost of the procedure.
LASIK is a permanent vision correction procedure and cannot be reversed once performed. Only a qualified ophthalmologist can perform refractive eye surgery for myopia correction. Other aspects to consider before undergoing refractive eye surgery include the following the factors:
- The age of the patient. Refractive eye surgery patients should at least be 18 years old and in some types of lasers, 21 years old.
- Patients must not be pregnant or lactating during the surgery.
- Patients who take prescription drugs regularly would need to consult with their doctor and eye care specialist to find out if there is a need or if its possible to discontinue medication in preparation for the procedure.
- Patients should also be of sound general health prior to procedure.
If you feel you could benefit from an eye exam or other possible solutions to your myopia, contact Eye Michigan today and schedule an appointment at (248) 221-1022 or at www.eyemichigan.com