Will I Need Reading Glasses after LASIK?
LASIK addresses a number of vision problems and is one of the most sought-after correction procedures available. Many of our La Jolla, CA, Carmel Valley, CA, and San Diego, CA, patients want to know if they will still need reading glasses after LASIK. The answer to this question? It depends.
While LASIK corrects a large majority of vision issues, there are some age-related conditions that require different treatment techniques. At GW Eye Associates, Drs. Gordon C. Wong and Wildon Wong offer a large collection of designer eyewear so patients can see clearly and accentuate their individuality.
Conditions LASIK Can Address
There are three primary vision issues that LASIK can successfully correct. These include:
- Myopia: Referred to as nearsightedness, this condition results in difficulty seeing things far away.
- Hyperopia: The opposite of myopia, farsightedness causes individuals to have a difficult time seeing things up close.
- Astigmatism: Caused by corneal irregularities, astigmatism causes image distortion.
LASIK can correct all of these eye conditions or any combination of the three. To determine which type of refractive error you have, schedule an eye exam with one of our doctors.
About Presbyopia
Presbyopia is a form of farsightedness that is attributed to age. Over time, the eye gradually loses its ability to focus up close. Individuals with presbyopia usually have trouble reading fine print or seeing things close to the eye.
This condition is a normal aspect of aging. It typically begins in the mid-40s and worsens over time. It is the result of hardening of the ciliary muscles. Once this occurs, these muscles lose the ability to focus light as effectively as they once did. The result is blurred up close vision.
Presbyopia Risk Factors
Age-related farsightedness is normal. However, there are certain risk factors that can increase your risk of developing presbyopia sooner:
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Taking antidepressants, antihistamines, diuretics, and other certain medications
- Having hyperopia
Presbyopia and LASIK
Though LASIK cannot resolve presbyopia, older adults may still benefit from the procedure if other refractive errors are present. For example, if you have hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia, LASIK will address the first two conditions, but not the third. This will still reduce your need for corrective eyewear. In most cases, adults in this situation simply need glasses when reading or performing tasks up close.
Designer Eyewear at Our Practice
Our practice offers a wide range of designer eyewear options, including Oakley®, Calvin Klein®, Ray-Ban®, Kate Spade, and more. Our collection is constantly being updated as new styles are released.
We have an on-site lab that allows us to fabricate your custom eyewear in just one day. Our team of professionals will always ensure your glasses fit exactly as they should. If the fit changes over time, bring them in and we will adjust or repair them at no cost to you.
Contact Us for More Information
Have you noticed recent changes to your vision? Are you wondering if LASIK is an option for you? Schedule a consultation at our practice. Our doctors can perform a complete assessment to determine which types of refractive errors are affecting your vision. Contact us online anytime or call our office at (858) 454-4699.
