Nearsightedness (myopia) affects distance vision but not near vision. It’s caused by a refractive error in how the eye focuses light and can develop gradually or quickly.
Mexico’s Ministry of Health notes, citing data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), that an estimated 2.237 million people in Mexico live with vision impairment. The six most common eye conditions affecting Mexicans are refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia), age-related cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and corneal opacity.
Fortunately, nearsightedness can be corrected in several ways, notes Dr. Andrew Olivo Payne, ophthalmic surgeon at ABC Medical Center, which generally fall into two treatment categories.
Non-Surgical Treatments
This approach involves the use of glasses or contact lenses. There are many brands, models, and materials available, but the best option will depend on the specific characteristics of your eyes.
Surgical Treatments
When it comes to surgical options, there are also several choices, each with its own advantages and specific characteristics. There are three main types of laser surgery:
- LASIK: the most common procedure, which involves creating a flap on the cornea and then using a laser to reshape it, allowing light to focus directly on the retina.
- PRK: here, no corneal flap is created, and the procedure is performed directly on the corneal surface. This procedure typically involves a longer recovery time and takes longer to reach full visual sharpness.
- SMILE: the most advanced technique, using femtosecond laser technology to create a small lens-shaped piece of tissue within the cornea, which is then manually removed through a very small incision.
For people who, for whatever reason, aren’t candidates for laser surgery, other surgical options are also available, such as intraocular lenses, where a lens is placed inside the eye behind the iris, without touching the cornea or the eye’s natural lens, notes Dr. Olivo.
Today, both laser surgery and intraocular lens procedures have a 95% success rate and are considered safe, effective options.
These treatments aim to improve visual quality by reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses, but they don’t correct other conditions associated with myopia, such as retinal detachment or glaucoma.
How Is the Best Treatment for Myopia Chosen?
To determine the best treatment option, and whether someone is a candidate for surgery, the doctor will order corneal imaging to assess both its shape and thickness.
To conclude, Dr. Olivo notes that it’s important to maintain realistic expectations. While surgery can improve a person’s vision and overall quality of life, it can’t guarantee a perfect result for every patient, which is why it’s important to discuss the pros and cons of each option with your ophthalmologist for your specific case.
At the Conde de Valenciana ABC Institute of Ophthalmology, part of ABC Medical Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
