Can high myopia be corrected surgically?

Myopia not only impairs vision but also affects one’s appearance. Consequently, many myopic individuals who wear glasses hope to undergo surgery to eliminate their dependence on corrective lenses. Although refractive surgery for myopia is now highly advanced and widely performed, most people remain unfamiliar with the procedure—leading many patients to hesitate before proceeding. So, can individuals with high myopia undergo surgical correction?

Can individuals with high myopia undergo surgery?

Yes, high myopia can be treated surgically; however, the decision must be made after a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors—including the specific degree of myopia, corneal condition, retinal health, and overall systemic health. Myopia exceeding −6.00 diopters (D) is classified as high myopia. Common surgical options include laser-based procedures (e.g., LASIK or SMILE) and implantable collamer lens (ICL) surgery. Laser refractive surgery typically corrects myopia ranging from approximately −1.00 D to −10.00 D, whereas ICL implantation accommodates a broader range, generally from −1.00 D to −12.00 D. Therefore, if a patient with high myopia falls within these refractive limits, surgical correction may be considered. Prior to surgery, a thorough preoperative evaluation—including measurements of corneal thickness, astigmatism, retinal status, age, and general health—is essential to assess ocular suitability. Importantly, refractive surgery does not alter the underlying structural changes associated with high myopia (e.g., posterior staphyloma or chorioretinal atrophy), so patients must continue to practice appropriate eye care and avoid activities that could increase ocular strain.

High myopia is generally defined as myopia greater than −6.00 D. When selecting a surgical approach for high myopia, it is critical to choose the most appropriate technique based on the individual’s specific refractive error and ocular parameters. In particular, corneal thickness must be carefully assessed to determine eligibility for laser-based procedures. For instance, in cases of very high myopia—such as −10.00 D or more—the cornea may be relatively thin (e.g., only 450–460 µm), making laser surgery unsuitable. In such cases, phakic intraocular lens implantation—commonly known as ICL surgery—is often the preferred alternative, as it preserves the natural lens while providing effective refractive correction.

We recommend avoiding rubbing the eyes and minimizing prolonged use of digital devices. We hope this information proves helpful.