Can Laser Eye Surgery Correct Short-Sightedness (Myopia)?

If you heavily rely on glasses or contact lenses, you’ve likely experienced the frustration of blurry distance vision or the constant distortion caused by astigmatism or short-sightedness.

Laser eye surgery for short-sightedness is a safe, life-changing procedure that helps millions of patients achieve permanent visual freedom. By correcting the eye’s shape, we can often provide clarity that surpasses what is possible with traditional glasses or contact lenses. Read on as our world-class consultants answer your most common questions.

What Causes Short-Sightedness?

Short-sightedness, also known as myopia, occurs when you can see objects clearly up close, but distant objects appear blurry. This condition occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved. Instead of focusing directly on the retina, light rays focus in front of it.

The exact cause of myopia is not yet fully understood, but it’s believed to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Modern research indicates that:

• Prolonged use of electronic devices and reading can accelerate the progression of myopia.
• Limited time spent outdoors in natural light is associated with the progression of short-sightedness.

Can Laser Eye Surgery Fix Short-Sightedness (Myopia)?

Laser eye surgery is a highly effective option for correcting short-sightedness (myopia). The goal is to flatten the cornea slightly so that light rays focus directly on the retina, resulting in a life free from glasses or contact lenses. 

At Optegra, we offer the three most popular and advanced procedures:

1. LASIK

LASIK is the most common choice for myopia. A surgeon creates a thin protective flap in the cornea, uses a laser to reshape the tissue underneath, and then repositions the flap. It’s known for its rapid recovery time and minimal discomfort. Most patients notice an immediate difference after surgery, with their vision returning just hours after the procedure. 

2. LASEK

LASEK is ideal for patients with thinner corneas. Instead of a flap, the surface layer is gently moved aside before the laser reshaping begins.

Some patients with short-sightedness have corneas that are too thin for a traditional LASIK surgery. LASEK offers a high-precision alternative that ensures those even with complex prescriptions can achieve clear distance vision. 

3. ReLex SMILE

SMILE is the latest advancement in laser technology. SMILE is known as a keyhole procedure and does not involve circular incisions traditionally used in LASIK. For short-sighted patients, this means the corneal structure remains stronger and more stable. It’s the safest and most advanced option for those with active lifestyles, such as athletes or those in physically demanding jobs, where a corneal flap could be at risk of displacement.

SMILE is also an option for patients who have dry eye or have been informed their corneas are too thin for LASIK eye surgery. It also offers a high-precision alternative that ensures those even with complex prescriptions can achieve clear distance vision. 

For more expert guidance, discover the key differences between SMILE and LASIK in our guide.

How Long Does Laser Eye Surgery Last For Short-Sightedness?

The primary goal of procedures like LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE is to permanently reshape the cornea, thereby correcting the refractive error that causes myopia. Once the cornea is reshaped, this change is typically permanent.

It’s important to note that while laser eye surgery corrects the existing refractive error, it doesn’t prevent the development of other age-related eye conditions, such as cataracts or glaucoma.

How Your Vision Changes After 40

While the reshaping of the cornea is permanent, it’s important to understand presbyopia – the natural ageing of the eye’s internal lens that happens to everyone in their 40s and 50s. While your distance vision will remain corrected, you may still need reading glasses for very close-up tasks unless you opt for specialised treatments like PRESBYOND® Laser Blended Vision.

Are There Any Side Effects Of Laser Eye Surgery For Myopia?

Laser eye surgery for myopia is highly safe and effective, but like any surgical procedure, it can have potential side effects and complications. Most side effects are temporary and resolve over time, but it’s important to be aware of them:

Dry Eyes

One of the most common side effects post-surgery is dry eyes. Eye drops and other treatments are usually effective in managing this condition, which typically improves significantly within the first few months.

Glare, Halos, and Double Vision

Some patients may experience visual disturbances, such as increased sensitivity to light, glare, halos around bright lights, or double vision. These symptoms usually diminish within weeks or months after the surgery.

Infection and Inflammation

Infection and inflammation following laser eye surgery are extremely rare, and when they do occur, they are typically mild and easily treatable with prescribed medications.

What Next? Contact a Free Consultation with Our Experts

If you are ready to explore how laser eye surgery can transform your daily life, the best way to start is with professional guidance. At Optegra, we offer a free, no-obligation virtual consultation where our experts can assess your suitability and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.

For more details on investment and flexible payment plans, you can find our full breakdown of the cost for laser eye surgery for short-sightedness.