What are the pros and cons of myopia surgery?
Benefits of myopia surgery include vision correction, freedom from glasses dependence, improved visual quality, enhanced convenience in daily life, and increased appearance-related confidence. Drawbacks include short-term postoperative discomfort, surgical risks, potential complications, the fact that results are not permanent, and limitations regarding suitable candidates. A rational evaluation is necessary before making a decision. If considering surgery, it is recommended to visit the ophthalmology department of a reputable hospital for assessment.
I. Benefits of Myopia Surgery
1. Vision Correction: By reshaping the cornea through laser treatment or implanting intraocular lenses, refractive errors can be corrected. Most patients achieve clear uncorrected vision after surgery, meeting everyday visual needs.
2. Freedom from Glasses Dependence: Eliminates the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses, avoiding inconveniences such as restricted physical activity, fogged lenses, or pressure marks on the nose and ears.
3. Improved Visual Quality: Enhances visual clarity and contrast sensitivity, reduces eye strain and blurred vision caused by myopia, and improves night vision.
p>4. Enhanced Daily Convenience: Particularly beneficial for individuals in specific professions such as military personnel, police officers, and pilots. Also facilitates activities like sports, swimming, and traveling, increasing overall lifestyle flexibility.5. Increased Appearance Confidence: Some patients feel their appearance improves after removing glasses, reducing appearance-related anxiety and boosting self-esteem.
II. Drawbacks of Myopia Surgery
1. Short-Term Postoperative Discomfort: Symptoms such as dry eyes, foreign body sensation, light sensitivity, and tearing may occur after surgery, typically lasting 1–3 months. These can usually be managed with artificial tears or other prescribed medications.
2. Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, there are risks of infection, bleeding, and corneal damage. Although rare, these complications may affect recovery.
3. Possible Complications: A small number of patients may experience regression of refractive correction, chronic dry eye, glare, halos, or reduced contrast sensitivity. Long-term follow-up is required for monitoring.
4. Not a Permanent Solution: The surgery corrects only the current degree of myopia and does not prevent further progression. If proper eye hygiene is not maintained post-surgery, myopia may recur.
5. Candidate Limitations: Individuals under 18 years of age, those with unstable myopia, insufficient corneal thickness, ocular diseases, or systemic medical conditions may not be eligible for surgery.
After surgery, it is essential to strictly follow medical instructions regarding medication and follow-up visits. Avoid prolonged near-work, minimize screen time, maintain good eye hygiene, refrain from rubbing the eyes, protect against eye injuries, and develop healthy visual habits.
