LASIK for Severe Nearsightedness or High Myopia

High myopia is common—and treatable—but it narrows the options. Screening protects corneal strength and visual quality.

The challenge with very high prescriptions

LASIK removes corneal tissue to change its focusing power. For large corrections, more tissue is needed. If too much is removed, the cornea may be weakened. That’s why thickness, topography, and residual bed calculations matter.

When LASIK can still fit

• Adequate corneal thickness and regular maps
• Prescription within platform limits
• Surgeon confirms a safe residual stromal bed after treatment

When to consider alternatives

• PRK: Preserves slightly more tissue than LASIK because there is no flap; recovery is slower but outcomes are strong.
• ICL: Places a lens inside the eye to correct very high prescriptions without corneal thinning.
• Combination strategies in special cases (surgeon‑directed).

Night vision and quality

Higher myopia can increase the chance of early halos/glare; diligent dry eye care and healing time usually help. Ask about optical zone sizing and night‑driving expectations.

Discussion checklist

• How much tissue would my treatment remove, and what residual thickness remains?
• Would PRK or ICL be safer for my level of myopia?
• What outcomes do you typically see in patients like me?

Bottom line: You have options. Let your corneal measurements and safety margins drive the decision.