Refractive Surgery (LASIK)

The Normal Eye

In the normal eye, light from the outside world passes through both the cornea and the lens, whose curves focus images onto the retina. The retina then transmits the perfectly focused image to the brain. Refractive problems occur when the cornea's shape is not compatible with the actual length of the eye.

Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is the name for a condition that occurs when the cornea curves too much or the eye is too long, focusing the outside light in front of the retina instead of directly onto its surface. People with myopia can generally see nearby objects with little trouble, but faraway objects appear hazy and distorted.

Hyperopia

Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is the name for a condition that occurs when the cornea is too flat or the eye is too short, focusing the outside light behind the retina. People with hyperopia can see distant objects better, but have trouble with things that are close. However, moderate or severe hyperopia causes blurry vision at both near and far distances.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism describes a cornea that is curved differently in one dimension compared to another, looking more like the surface of a football rather than a basketball. Light passing through a cornea with astigmatism is split up and focused in multiple places in the eye, causing the outside world to appear distorted and blurry.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is the result of the normal aging process that causes the lens to lose some of its flexibility and focusing ability. People over the age of 40 who need reading glasses or bifocals may be experiencing the effects of presbyopia. Unfortunately, because it is a natural process of aging, presbyopia cannot be stopped.