Refractive errors are among the most common vision problems worldwide, and surgical options like LASIK, SMILE, and PRK offer effective solutions for many patients.

👁️ What Are Refractive Errors?

Refractive errors occur when the eye cannot properly focus light on the retina, leading to blurred vision. The main types include:

• Myopia (nearsightedness): Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
• Hyperopia (farsightedness): Difficulty focusing on close objects.
• Astigmatism: Distorted or blurred vision due to irregular corneal curvature.
• Presbyopia: Age-related loss of near vision, typically after age 40.

Glasses and contact lenses are the most common treatments, but many people seek surgical options to reduce dependence on corrective lenses.

🔬 Surgical Options for Refractive Errors

Modern refractive surgeries reshape the cornea or replace the eye’s natural lens to improve focus. Here are the most common procedures:

⚖️ Benefits and Risks

• Benefits: Reduced dependence on glasses/contacts, improved quality of life, quick results for most procedures.
• Risks: Dry eyes, glare/halos, infection, or rare vision loss. Not all patients are candidates—eye health and stability of prescription are critical factors.

📝 Conclusion

Refractive errors affect millions, but surgical options like LASIK, SMILE, and PRK provide effective long-term solutions. Choosing the right procedure depends on your eye health, lifestyle, and vision goals. Always consult with an ophthalmologist to determine the safest and most effective treatment for your needs.

Phil Alabata

Phil Alabata, D.O. completed his ophthalmology residency at the world-renowned Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. He completed his Glaucoma Fellowship at the distinguished Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA. He trained and staffed ophthalmology residents in both eye care and surgical techniques at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, and the University of Florida Health in Jacksonville, Florida. Dr. Alabata practiced as a military physician for nine years and was instrumental in providing LASER VISION correction surgeries for special operations soldiers by innovating Fort Benning’s Warfighter Refractive Eye Surgery Program, one of many throughout the world. He served as the Chief of the Department of Ophthalmology and Assistant Chief of Surgery at Martin Army Community Hospital at Fort Benning, Georgia. Dr. Alabata brings over 20 years of experience and proficiency in many different areas of eye surgery. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology, a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Florida Society of Ophthalmology, Society of Military Ophthalmologist, Florida Osteopathic Medical Association, Emerald Coast Health Alliance, and the American Medical Association. Board Certified Ophthalmologist • LASIK Surgeon • LASER-Assisted Cataract Surgeon • Fellowship Trained Glaucoma Specialist

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