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Shortsightedness, also known as myopia, is one of the most common refractive errors. It happens from a combination of both genetic and environmental factors affecting the normal growth of the eye, causing it to become longer than average or result in a steep curvature of the cornea.

In the eye of a shortsighted person, light entering doesn’t focus on the retina, but instead in front of it, making objects further away appear blurry and not focused. Approximately 30% of Canadians are affected by myopia to some extent, whether mildly or seriously. The rate is increasing however with the use of modern technology. Some vision experts claim that all the time people spend looking at cell phones and computer screens at work is changing the size and shape of our eyes.

Fortunately, there are procedures that can help to correct shortsightedness. One of the earliest laser eye surgery procedures, known as photorefractive keratectomy or PRK, was created specifically to treat myopia. Laser treatment for myopia is performed by altering the shape of the cornea by flattening it. This results in the point where light enters the eye shifting backwards and hitting the retina correctly.

Those with myopia are the easiest to treat with laser vision correction, and patients who undergo procedures are all but guaranteed to see a significant increase in their eyesight. The result will depend on the prescription level they began with, but outcomes of 20/20 vision are not unheard of.

Along with myopia, there exists an expanse of other laser procedures designed to treat other conditions such as farsightedness or hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia. Be sure to check with your surgeon to see what they offer and suggest for your particular case.

Schedule a Consultation with an Eye Expert From UELC

If you are curious about how a laser eye surgery procedure could benefit you, contact us now to schedule your free Personal Consultation with a UELC specialist. We’ll work with you to find the right method based on your situation and come up with a solution to help you achieve the best results. For more information, visit our FAQ page. We have three locations in Vaughan, Scarborough and Brampton to help serve you better.