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When LASIK Isn’t Enough: What to Do If You Have High Myopia

Introduction

High myopia, also called severe nearsightedness, means you have trouble seeing distant objects clearly. When LASIK isn’t enough for high myopia, you may feel unsure about your options. LASIK is a popular laser eye surgery, but it may not work for everyone with severe nearsightedness. In some cases, your eyes may need more help than LASIK can give. Let’s explore what high myopia means and what you can do if LASIK is not the answer.

What Is High Myopia?

High myopia is a strong form of nearsightedness. People with this condition often need thick glasses or strong contact lenses. Usually, high myopia means your prescription is -6.00 diopters or higher. This level of nearsightedness can make daily life harder. For example, you may struggle to see road signs or faces from far away. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), high myopia increases the risk of eye problems like retinal detachment and glaucoma.

Why LASIK May Not Be Enough for Severe Nearsightedness

Although LASIK is safe for many, it has limits. For people with high myopia, LASIK may not correct vision fully. Sometimes, the cornea is too thin to remove enough tissue safely. In addition, high prescriptions may need more correction than LASIK can provide. Even after surgery, you might still need glasses or contacts. Because of these reasons, doctors often suggest other options for severe nearsightedness.

Alternative Treatment Options for High Myopia

When LASIK isn’t enough, you still have choices. Here are some alternatives to LASIK for high myopia:

  • Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL): These are special lenses placed inside your eye. They work with your natural lens to improve vision.
  • Phakic Intraocular Lenses (Phakic IOLs): Like ICLs, these lenses are added without removing your eye’s natural lens.
  • Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): In this surgery, your natural lens is replaced with an artificial one. This is similar to cataract surgery.
  • Specialty Contact Lenses: Some people use rigid or custom-made contact lenses for better vision correction.

    • Each option has pros and cons. Therefore, it’s important to talk with an eye specialist about the best treatment options for severe nearsightedness.

    Risks and Considerations of Advanced Procedures

    Every eye surgery has risks. For example, implantable lenses can cause glare or halos. There is also a small risk of infection or cataract. Refractive lens exchange may increase the chance of retinal detachment, especially in high myopia. However, many people have good results with these treatments. Your doctor will check your eye health and discuss the safest choices. Always ask about the risks and benefits before making a decision.

    Lifestyle Tips for Managing High Myopia

    Even if you choose surgery, daily habits matter. Here are some tips for managing high myopia:

  • Get regular eye exams to catch problems early.
  • Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.
  • Take breaks from screens to reduce eye strain.
  • Keep your glasses or contacts prescription up to date.
  • Eat a healthy diet rich in leafy greens and fish.

    • With these steps, you can help protect your vision every day.

    Prevention and Eye Health Maintenance

    While you can’t always prevent high myopia, you can slow its progress with the right care. At Om Netra Kendra & Laser Vision, patients are guided on proven steps such as encouraging children to spend more time outdoors, using specialised eye drops or lenses when required, and adopting healthy eye habits. Adults are advised to avoid rubbing their eyes and to manage conditions like diabetes, as these can affect vision. Regular eye check-ups at Om Netra Kendra & Laser Vision play a key role in early detection and prevention of serious eye problems later.

    In summary, when LASIK isn’t enough for high myopia, other effective treatment options are available. Om Netra Kendra & Laser Vision can help you understand the best approach for your eyes and guide you with personalised care to protect your vision and keep it strong.