Did you know that the process of seeing is similar to how a camera uses light to create images? Most of us don’t give much thought to the complex process of how our eyes see until we experience vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.
As we get older we are more likely to develop problems with our sight and may succumb to myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism. In the past these vision deficiencies were corrected with glasses or contact lenses. Nowadays increasing numbers of people are joining celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Brad Pitt, and opting for laser eye surgery as the fast, permanent and safe way to regain excellent vision.
What is myopia?
If distant objects appear as blurred images then you probably have myopia, also known as short-sightedness or nearsightedness. Myopia is caused by the eyeball growing a little too long and results in light being unable to focus correctly on the retina. Myopia can be caused by genetic or environmental factors or may be the result of excessive reading, writing and the overuse of smartphones, tablets and computers. Laser eye surgery is an effective way to flatten the cornea and correct myopia.
How to recognise hyperopia
Do you experience difficulty seeing things close up? Perhaps you suffer from blurred vision, squinting, aching eyes or headaches after reading. These are classic symptoms of hyperopia (farsightedness) which occurs when the eyeball is too short to focus or the cornea is misshapen, preventing the eye from focusing properly.
Laser eye surgery can correct the curve of the cornea and eliminate farsightedness.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common vision problem caused by an abnormal curve on the front surface of the cornea. Astigmatism changes the way light passes to the retina and results in blurred, distorted or fuzzy vision.Astigmatism is easily corrected with Laser eye surgery.
What you need to know about laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery is fast, safe and painless when carried out by an experienced ophthalmologist at a reputable eye surgery clinic. It can bring about life changing benefits for sufferers of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. Vision improvements are permanent and contrary to myths they last a lifetime and don’t wear off. Most patients are able to return to work the day after the procedure. Here’s patient’s experience of laser eye surgery. Find out if laser eye surgery is right for you.
What’s the difference between LASIK and LASEK laser eye surgery?
LASIK is the most commonly performed procedure and works by changing the curve of the cornea. Two lasers are utilised during surgery; one creates a protective flap and the other reshapes the cornea.Most patients enjoy improved vision immediately after LASIK surgery. LASEK is usually performed when the cornea is too thin for a laser to cut a flap in it. Instead a thin sheet is used to cover the areas of the cornea that won’t be treated. It may take a few days for vision to settle following LASEK surgery.
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