The whole point of LASIK surgery is to remove the need for glasses, right?
LASIK surgery permanently corrects vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism, usually eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses immediately after the procedure.
What many don’t realize is that LASIK surgery doesn’t protect against presbyopia — age-related farsightedness — which usually develops between the ages of 40 and 50.
For this reason, even individuals who have had successful LASIK surgery may need reading glasses once they become farsighted.
What is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a condition where the interior focusing lens thickens and loses elasticity. Less elasticity makes it more difficult for the lens to focus light on the retina, so the point of focus falls behind the retina. This makes close-up objects like books and computer screens appear blurry.
Presbyopia is a perfectly natural — if somewhat frustrating — part of the aging process. Unlike hyperopia (standard farsightedness), presbyopia is related to aging.
Since LASIK is generally performed on patients 20-30 years old, most will still experience presbyopia when they reach age 40-50, and will most likely need reading or computer glasses at that time.
What is LASIK?
LASIK is a laser eye surgery that corrects vision in people who are nearsighted or farsighted, or have astigmatism.
LASIK can correct three refractive errors:
- Astigmatism - caused by an imperfect shape in the cornea of your eye.
- Farsightedness (hyperopia) - vision is clear for objects far away but blurry for objects that are close.
- Nearsightedness (myopia) - vision is sharp when looking at something close, but blurred when they are far away.
Benefits of LASIK Surgery
There are many benefits to getting LASIK, including:
- Improved vision
- Convenience
- Long-lasting results
- Quick results and recovery
Contact Silicon Valley Eye Physicians in Sunnyvale to learn more about LASIK surgery and.how to reduce your reliance on glasses and contact lenses, and enjoy a life with sharper vision.
At Silicon Valley Eye Physicians, we put your family's needs first. Talk to us about how we can help you maintain healthy vision. Call us today: 408-739-6200 or book an appointment online to see one of our Sunnyvale eye doctors.
Want to Learn More? Read on!
FOLLOW US: