Myopia (Short-Sightedness)2026-02-04T23:54:41+13:00

Manage myopia with personalised eye care in Melbourne

Discover how tailored vision correction options can help improve distance vision by addressing how light focuses inside the eye

Manage myopia with personalised eye care in Melbourne

Discover how tailored vision correction options can help improve distance vision by addressing how light focuses inside the eye

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With myopia treatment, many people see distant objects more clearly

Learn what myopia is, why it develops, and the treatment options that may help manage blurred distance vision

How common is myopia?

  • Myopia, also known as short-sightedness, is one of the most common vision conditions worldwide. It affects children, teenagers, and adults, and its prevalence is increasing.
  • Many people develop myopia during childhood or adolescence, but it can also progress in adulthood.
  • Factors such as increased screen use and reduced time outdoors are thought to play a role.
  • Myopia causes distant objects to appear blurry while close objects remain clear.
  • Regular eye examinations are important to detect myopia early and monitor changes over time, as higher levels of myopia can be associated with other eye health risks later in life.

  • Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
  • Genetics can play a role, meaning myopia often runs in families.
  • Environmental factors also contribute, including long periods of near work such as reading or screen use, especially during childhood.
  • Spending less time outdoors has also been linked to the development of myopia.

  • Myopia is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. This includes vision testing to measure how clearly you see at different distances.
  • Your eye care professional may also use specialised instruments to assess how light focuses in your eye and to measure the shape and length of the eye.
  • Eye drops may be used to relax the focusing muscles for more accurate measurements.
  • These tests help determine the degree of myopia and whether it is changing over time.
  • Regular eye checks are important to monitor vision and maintain overall eye health.

  • For suitable adults, myopia may be treated with laser eye procedures designed to improve distance vision.
  • Customised LASIK reshapes the cornea using detailed eye measurements to create a personalised treatment plan.
  • LASIK Xtra combines LASIK with corneal cross-linking, which may be recommended in certain cases to support corneal strength.
  • PRK is a surface-based laser procedure that may suit people with thinner corneas or specific eye features.
  • The most appropriate option depends on your eye health, prescription, and lifestyle.
  • A comprehensive assessment is essential to determine suitability and discuss expected outcomes and limitations.

Is myopia the same as being short-sighted?
Yes. Myopia is the medical term for short-sightedness.

Can myopia get worse over time?
Yes. Myopia often progresses during childhood and teenage years before stabilising.

Can glasses fix myopia permanently?
Glasses correct vision while worn but do not change the structure of the eye.

Is laser eye surgery an option for myopia?
Laser eye surgery may be suitable for some adults after a detailed assessment.

How often should myopia be checked?
Regular eye exams are recommended, especially if vision changes are noticed.

Clearer vision in 3 simple steps

From your first assessment to life after treatment, we’ve made the journey as straightforward as can be

Step 1: GET IN TOUCH

Not everyone is suitable for laser vision correction. The first step is to find out if treatment could help you. Call our friendly team or use our online calendar to book a free appointment.

Step 2: WE’LL MEET

At your appointment, we’ll examine your eyes, answer your questions, and give you an honest recommendation based on your needs. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of the best options for you.

Step 3: ENJOY THE BENEFITS

After treatment, many people are surprised at how quickly daily life becomes easier. From driving to travelling to enjoying sport, you could experience freedom without glasses or contacts.

Freedom from glasses can start with one appointment

Find out if laser eye surgery is right for you

Book your free laser eye assessment and learn if clearer vision is within your reach

Get your questions answered about laser eye surgery in Melbourne

Explore expert insights and quick guides to help you understand treatment options, benefits, and what to expect right here in Melbourne

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Custom LASIK is a personalised vision correction treatment, which uses a computerised device called a corneal topographer to measure your individual cornea, examining specific corneal irregularities (called aberrations) and calculating how to best improve your vision.

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Latest COVID-19 Update from Vista Eyes

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VISTAeyes Laser Eye Clinic is OPEN for consultations and laser eye surgery. We are monitoring the COVID-19 situation very closely and will continue to act under the guidelines from the Australian health authorities and RANZCO.

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Ready for life without glasses?

Ready for life without glasses?

Take our 2-minute quiz to see if laser eye surgery could suit you

Hi, I’m Dr Rick Wolfe.

I’ve been performing laser vision correction and cataract surgery in Melbourne since 1991, with more than 30,000 procedures completed.

As a Fellow of RANZCO, I’ve dedicated my career to advancing eye surgery techniques in Australia and internationally.

I regularly share my knowledge at global conferences and founded the World College of Refractive Surgery and Visual Sciences to support excellence in our field.

My goal is simple: to provide safe, precise, and personalised care that helps people enjoy clearer vision.

Every patient is unique, and I take pride in tailoring treatment to individual needs.

Dr Rick Wolfe

Owner, Founder and Surgeon at Vista Eyes Laser Eye Clinic
Ophthalmologist and Laser Eye Surgeon, MB BS, FRANZCO, FWCRS

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Are you suitable for vision correction?

It isn’t suitable for everyone.

The first step is to take the quiz so you can find out whether you can benefit.

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