LASIK Surgery for Farsightedness (Hyperopia) in Chicago, IL

What Is Farsightedness?

Farsightedness is a type of refractive error that makes it more difficult for individuals to see objects and images up close. Farsightedness occurs when the cornea of the eye is too flat, resulting in the light that enters the eye, hitting behind the retina instead of directly onto the retina. Similar to other refractive errors, individuals who have farsightedness are often dependent on glasses or contact lenses. Lasik eye surgery for farsightedness is an excellent option for individuals who wish to be less dependent on their glasses and contacts. Farsightedness is different from Presbyopia, which is the normal aging of the eye that can affect an individual's reading vision. Symptoms of Farsightedness can include:

• Ocular strain
• Headaches during near work
• Blurred vision
• Excessive squinting
• Dizziness
• Having to hold objects farther away in order to see clearly

Can LASIK Fix Farsightedness?

Correcting farsightedness with Lasik eye surgery, is an outstanding option for individuals who would like to be less dependent on glasses and contacts. Refractive surgery for farsightedness is performed using the most up to date technology to help our patients achieve their vision goals while ensuring the highest level of safety. Most patients are back to work and normal activities within a day or two of their procedure. 

How Does LASIK Correct Hyperopia: Procedure and Aftercare

To fix farsightedness or hyperopia with Lasik surgery, it's helpful to understand the condition. When an individual is farsighted, their cornea is flatter, causing light and images that enter the eye to focus behind the retina, instead of directly on to it. This causes the vision to be blurry. During your Lasik procedure a very thin flap will be created on the cornea. Once created, the flap will be lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue. The corneal tissue is then reshaped using a laser. After the reshaping of the cornea, the flap is placed back into place. By making the cornea steeper, light can now focus correctly on the retina. As with any surgery, there are potential risks and side effects. Although rare, they can include:

• Dry eyes
• Glare and halos
• Poor night vision
• Infection
• Tearing

If your goal is to be less dependent on glasses and contact lenses, Lasik surgery is an option for you.

How Effective Is LASIK for Farsightedness?

LASIK is very effective at treating farsightedness, or hyperopia. The vast majority of LASIK patients achieve 20/40 vision or better, which means they are no longer dependent on glasses and contacts. With advancements in technology and surgical techniques, LASIK for hyperopia has continued to achieve better and better results.

Although most patients are excellent candidates for the Lasik procedure, occasionally a patient may not qualify. Here are a few reasons LASIK may not be right for you:

• Your vision is not stable
• You suffer from severe dry eyes
• Your general health is poor
• Your suffer from another eye disease
• Your corneas are too thin

Can You Get LASIK for Farsightedness?

Lasik can be a life changing procedure. Although this safe and effective procedure has been performed on millions of people, not everyone meets the requirements to undergo surgery. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK for farsightedness is to have a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. Preliminary measurements are taken at this visit, you will meet with Dr. Kraff, and your measurements will be reviewed. Dr. Kraff will determine if LASIK is a safe and effective treatment option for you. If it is determined that LASIK is right for you, your refractive consultant will be able to help you schedule your surgery and can discuss financing options with you.

How to Prepare for LASIK Surgery for Hyperopia?

If you are a good candidate for LASIK to correct farsightedness, you will return to our office for comprehensive tests and measurements of your eyes. This visit will include a dilated eye exam and can take up to two f hours. You will need to refrain from wearing contact lenses for 1 to 2 weeks prior to this visit, to ensure the measurements taken are accurate. This appointment can be done up until the day before surgery. Surgery is typically performed on a Thursday or Friday. Dr. Kraff sees his patients for follow-up care the day after surgery to make certain you are healing according to plan, and subsequent visits will occur as he instructs you.

Alternatives to Hyperopia LASIK Procedure

Don't be discouraged if it is determined that Lasik is not a safe and effective treatment option for you. Our goal is to work with you to find a treatment plan that can achieve your goals while maintaining a high level of safety.

PRK

Much like LASIK, PRK is a surgical option to treat farsightedness. During the PRK procedure, rather than creating a flap on the corneal surface, the surface cells of the cornea are gently brushed away to expose the underlying corneal tissue. The same laser used in the LASIK procedure is used to shape the cornea. A bandage contact lens is placed on the cornea to aid in the healing process and assist in improving the patients comfort during the healing process. Dr. Kraff will remove the bandage contact once the cornea is fully healed.

RLE

Refractive Lens Exchange involves removing the natural lens of the eye with a laser, then replacing it with an artificial lens. This is an option for individuals with extreme hyperopia.

Schedule a Consultation

A consultation and preliminary exam are necessary to determine if LASIK is right for you. If LASIK is an appropriate choice for you, you will be given additional information on how to move forward with scheduling your surgery. To learn more about your treatment options, schedule your complimentary consultation today by calling (312)444-1111.