Lens replacement surgery for extreme myopia can sometimes be considered, but it carries extra risk and is not suitable for everyone.
Why extreme myopia is challenging
In very highly short-sighted eyes, the eye is long and the retina may be stretched or fragile. Surgery inside the eye can disturb this delicate tissue, so benefits and risks must be weighed carefully.
- Lens power calculations are less predictable in extremely long eyes
- Existing retinal thinning or previous tears may limit suitability
- Higher lifetime risk of retinal detachment even without surgery
- Other options, like implantable contact lenses, may sometimes be safer
- Extensive pre-operative scans and counselling are essential
When it may still be an option
For some people, extreme myopia severely restricts daily life, even with the best glasses. In selected cases, surgery can still offer meaningful improvement if carried out by an experienced surgeon with careful follow-up.
- Extreme prescriptions that glasses or contact lenses cannot correct comfortably
- Coexisting cataract or lens clouding that already affects vision
- Healthy enough retina and macula on detailed imaging
- Understanding of possible need for further retinal checks or treatments
- Commitment to prompt review if floaters, flashes, or shadows appear
