Refractive Errors  & Refractive Surgery:

What is refractive surgery?

Surgery that is done to correct the refractive error, that is myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism or Presbyopia.

Why do we get refractive errors?

Refractive errors are due to changes in the length or curvature of the eyeball. It may be

• Myopia ( near-sightedness) when the patient can see for near but not for far. This is corrected by minus powered glasses or contact lenses.

• Hypermetropia ( long sightedness): The patient requires a plus power for correction  both for far and near vision.

• Astigmatism:  (Cylindrical ): In this, the light is focused only in one meridian. The corrective spectacles or lenses are usually required for   constant use.

When do we get refractive errors?

Usually refractive errors arise in the school years, that is between 6-18 years. Rarely, one may be born with an error. The number of the glasses changes as the child grows so one should have an eye check-up once year.

How are refractive errors treated?

Refractive errors may be treated with Spectacles, Contact lenses or Refractive surgery

What are the surgeries available to remove spectacles or contact lenses?

  » Laser Vision Correction: LASIK

  » Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)/ Phakic IOL
  » Phaco with Multifocal IOL