Laser Vision Correction

Researchers have spent a good deal of time attempting to find ways to reduce our need to wear glasses or contact lenses. These efforts have resulted in the development of three extremely precise laser vision correction (LVC) procedures (PRK, LASIK) that are highly successful in restoring clear vision without glasses. In the section HOW THE EYE SEES, the three conditions (nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism) that blur vision were explained. This section summarizes these conditions and discusses the LVC methods that can reduce or eliminate them.

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

In myopia, light rays from distant objects are focused in front of the retina. In most individuals, this is caused by either a cornea that is too steeply curved and/or an eye that is too long.  For those who wish to see well without glasses or contact lenses, LVC is often performed or flatten the cornea.

Farsightedness (Hyperopia)

This condition causes blurred vision for reading and sometimes blurry distance vision as well.  LVC can also be used to improve vision without glasses in farsighted patients.  The laser is used to increase the curvature and thereby steepen the cornea.  Patients may still need glasses for reading, but excellent distance vision can be achieved without the use of glasses or contact lenses.

Astigmatism

The blurred vision caused by this condition is usually due to a non-spherical or football- shaped cornea. Certain parts of the cornea are therefore too steep and others are too flat. LVC is now routinely used to reshape the cornea and eliminate astigmatism.

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