LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a surgical procedure designed to correct various vision problems caused by refractive errors. It utilizes laser technology to reshape the cornea, the transparent layer at the front of the eye. The cornea’s primary function is to focus incoming light onto the retina, enabling clear vision.

So, what vision issues can LASIK address? Let’s explore the conditions that can benefit from this procedure.

Eye Conditions That Can Be Treated With LASIK

Nearsightedness (Myopia)

Nearsightedness, or myopia, occurs when a person can see nearby objects clearly but struggles to see distant objects. This happens because the light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it, often due to an elongated eyeball or an overly curved cornea.

LASIK reshapes the cornea, allowing light to focus correctly on the retina. This adjustment often reduces or even eliminates the dependence on glasses or contact lenses for individuals with myopia.

Farsightedness (Hyperopia)

Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is the opposite of myopia. In this condition, light entering the eye focuses behind the retina, causing nearby objects to appear blurry. This typically occurs due to a shorter eyeball or a cornea that is not curved enough.

With LASIK, the cornea’s shape is modified to ensure that light focuses properly on the retina. As with nearsightedness, LASIK can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for corrective lenses in those with farsightedness.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism, often referred to as cylindrical vision, leads to blurred vision at both near and far distances. This condition results from an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, which prevents light from focusing correctly on the retina.

Astigmatism often coexists with either myopia or hyperopia. LASIK can correct the cornea’s irregular shape, allowing light to focus properly, thus reducing or eliminating the blurriness associated with astigmatism.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is an age-related condition that usually begins in the 40s, as a normal part of aging process. It occurs when the lens of the eye loses its flexibility, making it difficult to focus on close objects.

While LASIK cannot directly treat presbyopia, a technique known as monovision or blended vision can help.

This approach involves using LASIK to correct one eye for distance vision and the other eye for near vision. This adjustment enables clear vision at both close and distant ranges.

LASIK is generally recommended for adults aged 18 and older. Since children and teenagers’ eyes are still developing, LASIK is not suitable for correcting vision issues in these age groups.

For younger individuals experiencing vision problems, consulting an eye specialist is essential to explore alternative treatments or corrective measures. If you have questions about LASIK or other vision treatments, consider using the consultation feature on the Ai Care application, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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