Can LASIK Restore Reading Vision?

As we age, our vision naturally changes, often resulting in a condition known as presbyopia, or age-related farsightedness. This condition makes it difficult to focus on close objects, affecting activities such as reading. Many people wonder if LASIK, a popular form of refractive eye surgery, can correct this age-related vision change and restore reading vision. This article will delve into this topic, providing a comprehensive understanding of the potential of LASIK in restoring reading vision.

Understanding Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a natural part of the aging process that typically begins to affect people in their 40s or 50s. The condition is caused by a hardening of the lens inside the eye, which makes it difficult for the eye to focus on close objects. Symptoms of presbyopia include difficulty reading small print, having to hold reading material at arm’s length, headaches, and eye strain.

What is LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of refractive eye surgery that corrects common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure involves reshaping the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) so that light entering the eye can be properly focused onto the retina for clear vision.

Can LASIK Correct Presbyopia?

Traditional LASIK surgery is not designed to correct presbyopia. This is because LASIK corrects vision problems by reshaping the cornea, while presbyopia is caused by an age-related loss of flexibility in the eye’s lens. However, there are modified versions of the procedure, such as monovision LASIK and PresbyLASIK, that can be used to improve reading vision in people with presbyopia.

Monovision LASIK

In monovision LASIK, the surgeon corrects one eye for distance vision and the other eye for near vision. This allows the patient to use one eye for tasks such as reading, while the other eye is used for distance vision. It may take some time for the brain to adjust to the difference in vision between the two eyes, but most patients eventually find monovision LASIK to be an effective solution for presbyopia.

PresbyLASIK

PresbyLASIK is a newer procedure that creates a multifocal cornea, allowing the eye to focus on objects at various distances. This procedure can improve both near and distance vision, making it a potentially effective solution for presbyopia. However, as it is a relatively new procedure, long-term results and potential complications are not yet fully known.

Conclusion

While traditional LASIK is not designed to correct presbyopia, modified versions of the procedure can potentially restore reading vision in people affected by this condition. As with any surgical procedure, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a qualified eye care professional before making a decision.