Nearsightedness is a common eye disorder is characterized by difficulty focusing on distant objects while close-up vision remains relatively sharp. It's not just an inconvenience; nearsightedness can significantly impact your daily life, from limiting your ability to drive to affecting your performance at work or school.

The cause of nearsightedness is typically a slightly elongated eyeball or a cornea that's too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. As a result, distant objects appear blurry. This condition usually develops in childhood and progressively worsens until the eye stops growing in early adulthood. However, it can also develop in adults due to visual stress or health conditions like diabetes.

Living with nearsightedness can be challenging. There are solutions available, and one of the most effective is laser vision correction.

What is Laser Vision Correction?

Laser vision correction is a surgical procedure that uses a special type of laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. This adjustment allows light to be properly focused onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision. The one most common types of laser vision correction is PRK (photorefractive keratectomy).

PRK involves removing the outer layer of the cornea before the reshaping process. It is a highly effective at correcting nearsightedness and have a high success rate.

The Process of Treating Nearsightedness with Laser Vision Correction

The process of treating nearsightedness with laser vision correction starts with a comprehensive eye examination. This assessment will determine the degree of your nearsightedness and the overall health of your eyes. If you're a suitable candidate for the procedure, your doctor will then discuss the process in detail, explaining the benefits and potential risks.

During the procedure, you'll be awake but your eyes will be numbed with special drops to ensure your comfort. The laser is then used to carefully reshape your cornea, correcting its curvature. The entire process typically takes just a few minutes per eye, and most patients experience minimal discomfort.

After the procedure, you'll likely notice an immediate improvement in your vision. However, it may take a few weeks for your eyes to fully heal and your vision to stabilize. During this time, it's important to follow your doctor's post-op care instructions to ensure the best possible outcome.

What are the Benefits of Treating Nearsightedness with PRK?

First, PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. This makes it a safer option for those with thin corneas or those who are at risk for eye injuries, such as athletes or military service members.

Second, PRK is known for its exceptional precision. The laser used in PRK can remove a smaller amount of corneal tissue compared to other procedures, allowing for a more precise correction. This can result in better visual outcomes for patients with high degrees of nearsightedness.

Finally, PRK has a long track record of safety and effectiveness. It was the first type of laser eye surgery to be approved by the FDA, and decades of research and clinical experience have proven its reliability.

Is Laser Vision Correction Right for You?

This procedure offers the potential for life-changing improvements in vision, reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.

For more information on treating nearsightedness with laser vision correction, visit Laser Vision Delaware at our office in Wilmington, Delaware. We offer everything you need to maintain your eye health and optimize your vision. Please call (302) 515-0700 to schedule a consultation today.