Myopia Risks Persist After Vision Correction, Society Warns
The Korean Ophthalmological Society advised lifelong myopia care because glasses or vision-correction surgery do not remove the need to monitor related complications.
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At an October 8 press conference for the 56th Eye Day, the Korean Ophthalmological Society called for life-stage management of myopia, spanning prevention in childhood and complication monitoring in adulthood. The society said people with high myopia continue to face structural eye risks even when vision improves after refractive surgery.
Clearer vision does not reverse structural changes
The society said LASIK, LASEK, SMILE and implantable lens procedures can restore unaided vision but do not return an already elongated eye or vulnerable internal eye structures to their earlier state. It therefore framed myopia as an eye condition requiring continued management, rather than only a temporary refractive problem addressed with glasses or surgery.
Follow-up continues into adulthood
For adults, the society recommended regular retinal and glaucoma examinations after vision-correction surgery, especially when high myopia is involved. The guidance links improved eyesight with continued surveillance: seeing clearly after a procedure does not mean the underlying high-myopia risk has ended.
Frequently asked questions
Does high myopia risk remain after LASIK?
Yes. The Korean Ophthalmological Society said improved unaided vision does not reverse an elongated eye or vulnerable internal eye structures, so continued monitoring remains important.
Do I still need retinal and glaucoma exams after vision correction?
The society recommended regular retinal and glaucoma examinations in adulthood after vision-correction surgery, particularly for people with high myopia.
Do glasses or surgery end the need to manage myopia?
No. The society advised life-stage management from childhood prevention through adult monitoring for myopia-related complications, even after glasses or surgery improve vision.
Questions to ask about follow-up eye care
- Do I need regular retinal examinations after vision-correction surgery because of high myopia?
- How should glaucoma screening fit into my long-term follow-up plan?
- What follow-up schedule is appropriate for my degree of myopia?
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