[Surgery for nearsightedness]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Vision Science

Context:

• Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common refractive error impacting vision.
• Current treatments for myopia range from excimer laser procedures to corneal implants.
• High myopia presents unique challenges in refractive correction.

Purpose:

• To review current refractive surgery techniques for myopia correction.
• To discuss the potential of emerging treatments for myopia.
• To project future advancements in achieving optimal visual acuity.

Summary:

• Photorefractive keratectomy and LASIK are leading excimer laser techniques for myopia reduction.
• Intracorneal ring segments show promise for low myopia, while epikeratoplasty and phakic IOLs address high myopia.
• Ongoing optimization of surgical, optical, and biological variables is key to future refractive surgery success.

Impact:

• Refractive surgery significantly improves vision for many myopic individuals.
• Further research and technological integration promise enhanced visual outcomes.
• Potential for achieving supra-normal visual acuity in the next decade.