Common Treatments for Nearsightedness (Myopia)

At Maple Eye and Laser Center, wee pride ourselves on performing some of the finest eye care in the greater White Plains area. This includes advanced laser vision correction options such as LASIK.

Many people who come to our practice have nearsightedness (myopia), which is a common refractive error that can be treated with relative ease. Let's take a moment to consider how nearsightedness can be treated.

About Nearsightedness (Myopia)

Nearsightedness refers to cases in which it is easier to see objects that are up close while objects at a distance appear blurry, hazy, or indistinct. The opposite of nearsightedness is farsightedness (hyperopia), which means distant objects are easier to see than objects nearby..

In term of the anatomy of an eye, nearsightedness is the result of light focusing short of the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) rather than on the retina.

Prescription Glasses for Nearsightedness (Myopia)

Prescription glasses are a common treatment option for a variety of vision problems. Glasses for nearsightedness will help patients see clearly again. Lens types and frames can be determined as part of an optometry appointment.

Contact Lenses for Nearsightedness (Myopia)

If wearing glasses is not an option, contact lenses are another great way to address the issues related to nearsightedness. Contacts also come in various forms, some of which are more comfortable than others, or are able to be worn longer than others.

LASIK Surgery for Nearsightedness (Myopia)

LASIK surgery is one of the most popular options out there for treating nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea (the clear, frontal, topmost part of the eye) to improve the passes and focus of light on the retina. Patients who undergo LASIK typically experience 20/20 or 20/40 vision and no longer need to wear corrective lenses.

Refractive Surgery Alternatives to LASIK

Some patients may not be ideal candidates for LASIK due to cornea shape or size. In these cases, a LASIK alternative may be ideal. The most popular LASIK alternatives are PRK and LASEK, both of which work on similar principles as LASIK. PRK, LASEK, and other refractive procedures yieeld comparable results to LASIK surgery.

Phakic IOLs (Implantable Lenses) for Nearsightedness (Myopia)

Phakic IOLs are implantable contact lenses. This means that the lens is surgically placed to supplement and improve the current vision of the natural lens of the eye. Unlike the IOLs that are placed during cataract surgery, the natural lens of the eye does not need to be removed for a this implantable contact lens to be placed.

Which treatment option would be best for me?

Each patient's eye care need are different, which means that the best option for you and your needs has to be customized to your situation. During a consultation with an eye care specialist, you will be able to learn the pros and cons of all eye care options available, helping you get the best vision correction treatment for your needs.

Learn More About Your Treatments for Nearsightedness

To learn more about treating nearsightedness and other kinds of issues with your eyesight, be sure to contact our laser vision correction center today. The team at Maple Eye and Laser Center will work with you to ensure you undergo the right treatment to enhance your vision.