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Condition

Myopia (Short-Sightedness)

Short-sightedness causing distant objects to appear blurred while close objects remain clear. The most common refractive error, affecting approximately one in three UK adults.

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Overview

Understanding Myopia (Short-Sightedness)

Myopia, commonly known as short-sightedness, is a refractive error in which distant objects appear blurred while near objects remain clear. It occurs when the eyeball is slightly longer than normal, or the cornea is too steeply curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it.

Myopia is the most common refractive error worldwide, with prevalence increasing significantly in recent decades. In the UK, approximately one in three adults is short-sighted. The condition typically develops during childhood and adolescence, often stabilising in the early to mid-twenties.

While glasses and contact lenses effectively correct myopia, many patients seek a more permanent solution. Modern vision correction procedures — including LASIK, PRK/LASEK, and ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) — can permanently correct myopia, freeing patients from dependence on corrective eyewear.

Miss Tina Khanam offers a full range of surgical options for myopia correction. The most suitable procedure depends on your prescription level, corneal thickness, and individual eye anatomy. A comprehensive consultation will determine the best approach for your eyes.

Symptoms

Signs You May Notice

If you are experiencing any of these signs, a consultation can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

  • Distant objects appear blurred

    Road signs, whiteboards, and TV screens are unclear without correction

  • Squinting to see distant objects

    Narrowing the eyes to try to bring distant objects into focus

  • Headaches from eye strain

    Particularly after activities requiring distance vision

  • Eye fatigue

    Tired eyes after driving or watching sport

Causes

What Causes This

  • Elongated eyeball — the most common structural cause
  • Excessive corneal curvature
  • Genetic factors — strongly hereditary, especially with two short-sighted parents
  • Environmental factors — prolonged near work, limited outdoor time in childhood

Risk Factors

Who Is at Risk

  • Family history — risk increases significantly if one or both parents are myopic
  • Prolonged near work (reading, screen time) during childhood
  • Limited time spent outdoors during childhood and adolescence
  • Higher education level (correlated, likely due to increased near work)

Important

When to Seek Help

Consider booking a consultation if you notice any of the following:

  • You are struggling to see distant objects clearly
  • Your child is squinting, sitting too close to the TV, or struggling at school
  • You want to explore permanent correction options to reduce glasses dependence

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. LASIK, PRK/LASEK, and ICL surgery can all permanently correct myopia. The best option depends on your prescription, corneal thickness, and lifestyle. Miss Khanam will recommend the most suitable procedure during your consultation.

LASIK can typically correct myopia up to -10.00 dioptres, and PRK up to -8.00 dioptres. For higher prescriptions, ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) can correct up to -18.00 dioptres.

You must be at least 18 years old with a stable prescription (unchanged for at least 12 months). Most surgeons prefer to wait until the early twenties when prescriptions are more likely to have stabilised fully.

Related Treatments

Available Treatments

LASIK Surgery

Bladeless LASIK using femtosecond laser technology. Corrects myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism with rapid visual recovery — most patients see clearly within 24 hours.

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Laser Eye Surgery

Advanced surface laser treatments including PRK and LASEK. Ideal for patients with thinner corneas or those unsuitable for LASIK, offering excellent visual outcomes.

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ICL - Implantable Contact Lens

EVO ICL for high prescriptions — a reversible, maintenance-free alternative to laser eye surgery with built-in UV protection.

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Take the First Step

Understanding your condition is the first step toward clear vision. Your consultant is here to provide expert guidance, honest advice, and compassionate care.