Conditions
Nearsightedness (Myopia)
What Is Nearsightedness?
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common type of refractive error where near objects appear clear, but distant objects appear blurry. Nearsightedness occurs when your eye is too long to the curvature of your cornea. This causes light rays entering your eye to focus in front of the retina, producing a blurred image.
Symptoms of Nearsightedness
- Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly
- Squinting
- Headaches
- Eyestrain
Nearsightedness FAQs
What causes nearsightedness?
Nearsightedness is a hereditary eye condition, but some researchers also believe that eye fatigue from performing extended close vision tasks like reading can play a factor. During the early development of the eye, It is important to spend time in the outdoors looking at far objects to minimize the likelihood of a progressive increase in myopia.
Prescriptions & Nearsightedness
Do I need to wait for my prescription to slow down before I am a candidate for treatment?
Yes, your prescription should stabilize before having LASIK or any laser vision correction procedure. You need to have less than or equal to a ½ diopter of increase in myopia during the past year to be considered stable for Laser Vision Correction Surgery. 75% of eyes are stable by the age of 15. 91% by the age of 18, 95% by the age of 21 and 98% by the age of 25.
I have a high-eyeglass prescription. Am I a candidate for laser vision correction?
Yes, laser corrective surgery can treat severe prescriptions safely and effectively. The EVO ICL and Refractive Lens Exchange can be used to treat even higher or extreme and complex prescriptions.
When does nearsightedness start?
Nearsightedness typically appears between the ages of 5 and 12, and almost always before the age of 20. Nearsightedness tends to stabilize in most adults by the age of 18. Because nearsightedness often appears in childhood, it’s frequently diagnosed during school screenings or when parents notice their children sitting too close to the television.
How to Fix Nearsightedness?
Can LASIK Fix Nearsightedness?
Choosing LASIK eye surgery for nearsightedness is a transformative decision that offers unparalleled benefits for those seeking clear vision. Unlike traditional eyewear, LASIK eye surgery addresses the root cause of nearsightedness by precisely reshaping the cornea with advanced laser technology.
This outpatient procedure is quick, virtually painless, and results in reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Imagine waking up each day with sharp, clear vision—no more searching for misplaced glasses or dealing with the hassle of contacts. LASIK eye surgery not only enhances visual acuity but also provides the freedom to engage in activities without the constraints of corrective lenses.
At NVISION eye clinics, our commitment to excellence, experienced surgeons, and cutting-edge technology ensure that LASIK eye surgery becomes a personalized and life-changing solution for individuals seeking lasting clarity in their nearsightedness journey. Say goodbye to the limitations of traditional vision correction and embrace the freedom that LASIK eye surgery brings to your daily life.
Is Nearsightedness Genetic?
Yes, nearsightedness can have a genetic component. If one or both parents are nearsighted, there is an increased likelihood that their children may also develop nearsightedness. However, genetics is not the sole factor influencing myopia; environmental factors, lifestyle, and visual habits can also play a role.
Children with myopic parents may have a higher risk of developing nearsightedness, and the degree of nearsightedness can vary. Individuals with a family history of myopia need to have regular eye exams to monitor their vision and address any refractive errors early on.
Additionally, adopting healthy eye care practices, such as spending time outdoors, taking breaks from close-up work, and maintaining good overall eye health, can contribute to managing the progression of nearsightedness.
I'm in my early 40s. If I get laser vision correction, will I still need glasses for reading?
Laser vision correction, such as LASIK eye surgery, is primarily designed to address distance vision issues, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. However, it may not fully eliminate the need for reading glasses, especially if you are in your early 40s and experiencing presbyopia.
While LASIK can correct distance vision, it does not address presbyopia. Many individuals who undergo LASIK in their 40s may still need reading glasses for tasks like reading, using a computer, or other close-up activities. There are options, such as monovision LASIK, where one eye is corrected for distance vision, and the other for near vision, but this may not be suitable for everyone and can impact depth perception.
Additionally, PRK surgery, EVO ICL, and SMILE eye surgery are procedures that can be performed using blended vision or monovision to minimize or eliminate the need for reading glasses. Refractive Lens Exchange or Dysfunctional Lens Exchange is a procedure that can also be used to permanently eliminate the need for glasses and contacts for near and far vision.
It’s important to discuss your specific vision needs and expectations with your eye care professional during a consultation.
Treatment Options for Nearsightedness (Myopia)
Every patient is different, and therefore we strive to personalize their treatment based on their unique needs. Your NVISION surgeon will recommend the best treatment for your individual needs.
Why Choose NVISION for Eye Care Needs?
Our Experience
Our board-certified surgeons are the most experienced, educated and caring professionals in the eye care industry. Our surgeons have performed over 2,500,000 procedures. More eye doctors have had their surgery performed by an NVISION surgeon than any other provider of eye care.
Patient Care
Every NVISION patient is different, and therefore, we strive to personalize their treatment based on their unique needs. We treat every patient with care, compassion, empathy and professionalism with a promise to deliver the best-in-class patient care.
Technology
We utilize only the most advanced laser and diagnostic equipment available to ensure we can deliver the best outcomes for our patients.