There are many different vision problems that a person may experience. Treating them will involve different kinds of methods, and some of these treatments will be more involved than others. When it comes to treating refractive errors, however, the treatments involved are generally not so complicated, relatively speaking. We treat many patients suffering from refractive errors every year at our Boston LASIK center. Let’s discuss this common vision problem right now.

About Refractive Errors

Refractive errors are common vision problems that many people experience in varying degrees. Refractive errors occur when the light passing through the eye does not focus properly on the retina. This may be due to myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Myopia refers to instances in which the light falls short of the retina. This makes it so that it is more difficult to see objects that are far away than objects that are nearby.

Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

Hyperopia refers to instances in which the light falls behind the retina. This makes it so that it is more difficult to see objects that are nearby than objects that are far away.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism usually accompanies myopia and hyperopia and is often caused by irregular shaping of the cornea. Issues with the shape of the lens of the eye can cause astigmatism as well.

How to Remedy Refractive Errors

Treating the above refractive errors is relatively easy, as previously mentioned. Your options are basically corrective lenses (i.e., contact lenses and eyeglasses) or refractive surgery such as LASIK and Boston PRK. Refractive surgery will use safe surgical lasers to precisely alter the shape of the cornea, which will refocus light properly onto the retina.

So which treatment option for refractive errors is right for you? To find out, contact our Boston LASIK center. Only by undergoing a consultation at one of our offices can we determine the best treatment plan for your needs.