Contact Lens Prescription and Laser Surgery for High Myopia - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

When it comes to understanding contact lens prescriptions and laser surgery for high myopia, there are several important factors to consider. Let's break down your questions regarding your specific situation.

1. Contact Lens Prescription: You mentioned that your myopia is -8.25 in one eye and -8.50 in the other, while your contact lens prescription is -7.00 for both eyes. This discrepancy raises a valid concern. Generally, contact lens prescriptions can differ from glasses prescriptions due to the distance of the lens from the eye. Contact lenses sit directly on the cornea, while glasses are positioned further away. Therefore, the power needed for contact lenses is often lower than that for glasses. However, a difference of -1.25 to -1.50 is quite significant and may indicate that your contact lenses are not providing optimal vision correction. It’s crucial to consult with your eye care professional to ensure that your contact lenses are appropriate for your level of myopia and to discuss any potential discomfort or vision issues you may be experiencing.

2. Laser Surgery Suitability: Regarding your eligibility for laser surgery, such as LASIK or SMILE, several factors come into play. High myopia, like yours, can be treated with laser surgery, but there are specific criteria that need to be met. Typically, candidates for laser surgery should have stable vision for at least a year, be over 18 years old, and have a corneal thickness sufficient to safely perform the procedure.
In your case, with myopia exceeding -8.00, you may be a candidate for laser surgery, but it’s essential to have a thorough evaluation by a qualified ophthalmologist. They will assess your corneal thickness, overall eye health, and any other conditions that may affect the surgery's success. Additionally, high myopia can sometimes be associated with other eye conditions, such as retinal issues, which need to be evaluated before proceeding with surgery.

3. Risks and Considerations: While laser surgery can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, it is not without risks. For individuals with high myopia, there is a potential for undercorrection, overcorrection, or regression of vision over time. Moreover, the risk of complications, such as dry eyes or visual disturbances, may be higher in patients with high myopia.
It’s also important to consider that even if laser surgery successfully corrects your myopia, you may still experience presbyopia as you age, which is the natural decline in the ability to focus on close objects. This means that even after laser surgery, you might still need reading glasses in the future.

In conclusion, while your current contact lens prescription seems to be on the lower side compared to your glasses prescription, it’s essential to consult with your eye care provider to ensure you have the correct fit and prescription. As for laser surgery, a comprehensive evaluation will help determine if you are a suitable candidate. Always discuss the potential risks and benefits with your ophthalmologist to make an informed decision that aligns with your vision goals and overall eye health.