Eye Anatomy
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What is myopia (nearsightedness)?
Quick Answer: Myopia occurs when the eye is too long, causing distant objects to appear blurry while near objects are clear.
Myopia (nearsightedness) is the most common refractive error and the primary reason people seek LASIK.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia is a focusing error where:
- Distant objects appear blurry
- Near objects appear clear
- Light focuses in front of the retina
What Causes Myopia?
Anatomical Causes
- Eyeball too long: Most common cause
- Cornea too curved: Less common
- Lens too powerful: Rare
Risk Factors
- Family history (genetic)
- Extensive near work (reading, screens)
- Limited outdoor time in childhood
- Higher education levels
- Asian ethnicity (higher prevalence)
Myopia Statistics
- Affects 30-40% of Americans
- Increasing worldwide (expected to affect 50% by 2050)
- Usually develops in childhood
- Often stabilizes in early adulthood
Degrees of Myopia
| Category | Diopters | Characteristics |
| Mild | -0.50 to -3.00 | Distance blur, minimal impact |
| Moderate | -3.00 to -6.00 | Significant distance blur |
| High | -6.00 to -10.00 | Severe blur, thicker glasses |
| Extreme | Over -10.00 | Very thick glasses, may have complications |
How LASIK Corrects Myopia
The excimer laser:
- Flattens the central cornea
- Reduces corneal focusing power
- Allows light to focus on the retina
- FDA approved for up to -12.00 diopters
Myopia and Eye Health
High myopia increases risk of:
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
Top LASIK Surgeons in Atlanta
MP
Milan Patel, MD
Milan Eye Center
Jeffrey A. Carlisle, MD
Thomas Eye Group
Gayle Leff Goldstein, MD
Georgia Eye Partners
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