As we celebrate the Olympics, we’re reminded of the incredible potential within each of us, no matter our age. Clear vision is crucial for everyone, whether you’re an athlete in your prime or a professional making strides in your career. Sharp vision without corrective lenses can be life-changing.
While LASIK is often the go-to term for vision correction, it’s important to recognise that one size does not fit all. Vision correction procedures are tailored to each individual. Understanding the array of options for treating myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia can be complex and overwhelming. Our guide offers a straightforward breakdown of treatment options based on your age.
Age 18-45
Undergoing LASIK at age 18 offers the potential for the longest period of excellent vision. Additionally, younger patients typically experience rapid healing. This quick, outpatient surgery takes about 15 minutes per eye, with most patients returning to work the next day and achieving 90% of their results within the first day.
LASIK involves creating a thin flap in the cornea and reshaping the tissue beneath to correct refractive errors. An alternative to LASIK is LALEX, which involves extracting a lenticule through a keyhole incision without creating a flap. This procedure is often preferred for those with dry eyes.
For patients with thin corneas or those engaged in contact sports, PRK is recommended. Similar to LASIK in terms of long-term outcomes, PRK involves no flap creation, leading to a longer recovery period as the corneal epithelium regenerates.
For individuals with very high prescriptions or extremely thin corneas, Implantable Contact Lenses (ICLs) may be a better option. This procedure involves implanting an artificial lens while preserving the natural lens. ICL surgery tends to be more expensive but offers a quick recovery.
Age 40-60
At 45, you may have been wearing glasses all your life or recently started needing reading glasses. For presbyopia correction, your treatment options are similar to those for younger individuals, but with specialised laser calculations and lenses designed to correct vision at all distances. If you had LASIK at a younger age, you will eventually need blended LASIK to maintain independence from reading glasses.
Age 55+
As you age, changes to your natural lens become more pronounced. In such cases, a refractive surgeon may recommend removing the natural lens and replacing it with a multifocal lens; a procedure known as custom lens replacement.
Choosing the Right Procedure
With numerous procedures available, deciding on the best option can be overwhelming. However, you don’t have to make this decision alone. Your refractive surgeon will guide you in choosing the safest and most effective option for achieving clear vision for the longest possible time.
Rugby Legend Victor Matfield’s Journey to Spectacle Independence
In the dynamic world of sports, precision and clarity are crucial—both on and off the field. For Victor Matfield, a South African rugby legend turned sports commentator and businessman, maintaining sharp vision has always been essential. Fortunately, Victor found his solution at Sandton Eye Clinic, where PresbyLASIK helped him achieve spectacle independence once again.
MH: When did you start needing glasses, and how did it affect your day-to-day life?
VM: Like many people, I started needing glasses around age 45. The biggest challenge was reading in low light, especially in the mornings, evenings, and at restaurants. It impacted my life more than I expected.
MH: Can you describe the experience of the procedure and the recovery process?
VM: The tests were conducted, and Dr. Lourens Coetzee explained the process thoroughly. After half an hour in the theatre, the procedure was completed. Initially, there was mild discomfort, but by the second day, my vision had already improved. A week later, I was ecstatic with the results.
MH: How has your life changed post-procedure?
VM: It’s fantastic not having to switch between wearing and removing reading glasses. I no longer need large text on my computer, and I enjoy being able to see the bill at a restaurant without asking my wife for help. PresbyLASIK has had a huge impact on my life, and I would recommend it to anyone.
For more information, visit Sandton Eye Clinic’s here. To see if you are a candidate for LASIK, take their free self-test here. Learn more about laser vision correction, or contact them here for a consultation.
*Disclaimer: Glasses are safe because there is no medical procedure involved. If you are happy wearing glasses, then LASIK is not for you. LASIK is a lifestyle procedure providing unaided vision. According to research, the cumulative risk of contact lenses may be higher than LASIK.
**MH Partnership
