Managing Expectations: Understanding What LASIK Can and Cannot Correct

Photo byMichael Brandt

For those considering LASIK eye surgery in Orange County, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what the procedure can realistically achieve. At Excel Laser Vision Institute, Doctor Ferzaad Moosa is committed to educating patients about the capabilities and limitations of LASIK. This transparency helps manage expectations and ensures patient satisfaction. Here, we dispel common myths and clarify what LASIK can and cannot correct.

What LASIK Can Correct

Common Refractive Errors

LASIK is highly effective at correcting common refractive errors, including:

- Myopia (Nearsightedness): LASIK can reshape the cornea to correct the way light rays enter the eye, allowing for clear distant vision.

- Hyperopia (Farsightedness): By adjusting the corneal curvature, LASIK helps focus light more effectively onto the retina, improving close vision.

- Astigmatism: LASIK can smooth irregular corneas into a more symmetrical shape, enhancing overall vision clarity.

These corrections can dramatically reduce and often eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Age-Related Distance Vision

Many patients in their 20s and 30s choose LASIK to enjoy the benefits of clear distance vision, which is particularly useful for driving, sports, and other visual activities prevalent in the active lifestyle of Orange County residents.

Limitations of LASIK

Presbyopia and Age-Related Vision Changes

One common misconception about LASIK is its ability to correct presbyopia, the age-related loss of near vision that typically begins in one’s 40s. LASIK does not prevent the lens of the eye from aging, which is what causes presbyopia. While LASIK corrects the corneal shape for distance vision, it does not change the lens. However, options like monovision LASIK, where one eye is corrected for near vision and the other for distance, can be considered.

Extremely High Prescriptions

While LASIK can correct a wide range of refractive errors, there are limits to the degrees of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism that can be effectively treated. Patients with extremely high prescriptions may need alternative treatments such as PRK or implantable lenses. Doctor Moosa provides comprehensive consultations to determine the most suitable corrective surgery based on individual prescriptions and eye health.

Underlying Eye Conditions

LASIK is not a cure for all visual impairments. Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and advanced macular degeneration are not treatable with LASIK. It’s crucial for patients to undergo a thorough eye exam at Excel Laser Vision Institute, where Doctor Moosa can identify any such underlying issues before proceeding with LASIK.

Conclusion:

At Excel Laser Vision Institute in Orange County, Doctor Ferzaad Moosa emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations for LASIK surgery. Understanding what LASIK can and cannot correct is crucial for patient satisfaction. For many, LASIK offers a transformative solution to refractive errors, enhancing daily life and freedom from glasses. However, it’s important to approach the procedure with a clear understanding of its capabilities. If you’re considering LASIK, we invite you to discuss your vision goals and concerns with Doctor Moosa, who can guide you towards the best option for your eyes.