As you age, your ability to read small print may diminish over time. This is due to a common, natural condition known as presbyopia.
As a result of these vision changes, many adults find they require reading glasses. They may also need bifocals or other magnification to see books and screens clearly. If you are passionate about reading or use screens as part of your job, these changes can interfere with your quality of life.
This leads many individuals to ask, “Can you get LASIK for reading?” The answer is yes, LASIK can be an effective treatment for presbyopia. If you meet certain requirements, you can anticipate clearer vision and an improved overall quality of life.
Continue reading to learn what makes an ideal candidate for LASIK eye surgery for reading. You’ll discover what you have to gain by scheduling a free consultation.
What is Presbyopia?
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, presbyopia impacts over a billion adults worldwide. It is an age-related vision condition and one of the most common natural vision impairments.
In essence, the lenses in your eyes harden as you age. Hard lenses are less agile and cannot change shape as easily. This can impact the way your eye processes light.
As a result, you may experience changes in the eye’s ability to focus efficiently or at all. Adults may find it progressively difficult to read small print without magnification. The most common symptom is blurriness or distortion when reading or looking at small screens, such as smartphones.
As you age, the muscles in your eyes might also become weaker. This, combined with harder lenses, can exacerbate symptoms.
LASIK for reading is one treatment that may be effective in mitigating age-related presbyopia in healthy adults.
How Does LASIK Work for Reading?
Many adults compensate for presbyopia with reading glasses, progressive lenses, or multifocal contact lenses. In some cases, however, these solutions might be a poor fit for an individual’s lifestyle. In such instances, LASIK eye surgery for presbyopia may be the preferred treatment.
LASIK is also known as Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. It is a refractive surgery that uses a laser to reshape the cornea of the eye. Traditional LASIK is most effective for those struggling with their distance vision. However, recent advances in technology have made it an appropriate treatment option for some individuals with presbyopia.
There are two versions of LASIK that can improve reading: monovision LASIK and blended vision LASIK. These techniques create a different level of vision in each eye. In essence, the surgeon will correct one eye for distance vision and one eye for near vision. This can improve your near vision without the need for glasses, contact lenses, or other external magnification.
Who Is A Candidate for LASIK for Reading?
According to the Review of Ophthalmology, the best candidate for monovision LASIK is:
- Someone who already has some monovision correction
- Someone undercorrecting their myopia
- Someone 45 years old or older
Very few surgeons will recommend monovision correction surgery without a trial. They will often prescribe monovision contact lenses so you can understand what to expect. There is often an adjustment period. Expect to wear monovision contact lenses for a minimum of one week before making your decision.
If you make it through the trial and do not adjust well to monovision correction, there are alternatives. However, for many individuals, this procedure is life-changing.
What are the Alternatives to LASIK for Reading?
Not all individuals with presbyopia are ideal candidates for LASIK. Likewise, many individuals do not tolerate the trial and choose to pursue alternatives.
Currently, the most effective treatment for presbyopia is known as PIE or Presbyopia Implant in Eye. It allows for binocularity rather than monovision, eliminating the need for glasses or contacts for life.
If you are unsure which treatment is right for you, we recommend that you begin with a free consultation. Your experienced eye doctor will make a recommendation based on your unique needs. Either procedure has the power to transform your quality of life.
Can LASIK Correct the Need for Reading Glasses?
Yes, in many candidates, monovision LASIK for reading can eliminate the need for reading glasses. With that said, you may experience some changes in visual clarity or depth perception. Most patients consider this a trade-off, as the ability to read or work on screens is important to them.
We advise you to strongly consider the pros and cons of this procedure before you commit. If you have questions, speak to your surgeon during your consultation. They will help you choose the least invasive treatment option that meets your vision goals.
Experience the Transformation of LASIK Surgery For Reading at Khanna Institute
You depend on your eyes to engage with the world around you. When age-related vision changes impact your ability to read, it’s time to consider LASIK for reading.
This quick procedure can transform the way you interact with print, screens, and text. Over time, it can save you money. Consider it an investment in your quality of life.
The first step is to schedule a free consultation with the vision specialists at Khanna Institute. Their years of experience ensure a fast, seamless experience with little or no pain. Remote consultations are available for those who need flexibility.
Schedule your free consultation today and reclaim your quality of life.