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What it Means to Be Nearsighted

Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is caused by an abnormal shape or size of the eye. You may be born with abnormally shaped eyes, or they may change part of the natural aging process. Either way, it is this irregular shape that makes it difficult for the retina to focus light.

Signs and Symptoms

• Headaches
• Eye fatigue
• Blurred vision when focusing on distant objects
• Squinting

Treatments

LASIK

LASIK is the most common refractive surgery for myopia. This procedure uses state-of-the-art laser technology to reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina. At Specialty Eye Institute, we use the IntraLase technique to create the corneal flap, which is 100% more accurate than traditional mechanical methods.

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

PRK is another laser-based procedure similar to LASIK. It reshapes the middle layer of the cornea, flattening it to correct the focus of light on the retina.

Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)

For patients with higher degrees of myopia, we offer an ICL procedure. This involves inserting a permanent lens between the eye's natural lens and the iris. The ICL works by refracting light to ensure proper focus on the retina, providing clear vision without removing any corneal tissue.

What it Means To Be Farsighted

Farsightedness, also known as hyperopia, happens when either the eyeball is too short or its natural lens doesn’t have enough curvature to focus properly on light. Unlike normal vision, where light focuses in front of the retina or directly on its surface, farsighted vision occurs when the light focuses behind the retina.

Signs and Symptoms

• Difficulty focusing on close objects
• Headaches
• Eye strain
• Blurred vision
• Eye fatigue when performing tasks like reading up close

Treatments

LASIK

LASIK is also highly effective for treating hyperopia caused by a misshapen cornea. During this procedure, our skilled surgeons use precise laser technology to reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina instead of behind it. Many patients who undergo LASIK for farsightedness experience significantly improved vision and often no longer need glasses or contacts for daily activities.

Refractive Lens Exchange

For patients who may not be suitable candidates for LASIK, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) surgery is an excellent alternative. This procedure involves replacing the eye's natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to provide clearer, sharper eyesight and reduce reliance on glasses and contacts. RLE is a versatile option for many types of patients but is particularly beneficial for those with age-related farsightedness or those with extreme refractive vision issues