Myopia (Near-sightedness)

Myopia (near-sightedness) is a major cause of retinal weakness. The retina is the light receptive layer at the back of the eye. With severe myopia, the retina becomes thinner and weaker causing Lattice Degeneration (oval or linear patches of retinal thinning) or retinal holes/tears.

Your doctor will conduct an eye examination to diagnose myopia. You may be prescribed corrective glasses or contact lenses, while certain cases may require surgery to treat myopia. Some of the other treatment options include:

• Lasik (blade-less)
• PRK
• Implantable collamer lens
• Bioptics

The Barrage Laser is an Argon Laser treatment which is performed to strengthen weakened areas of the retina. During routine eye check-ups, if the retina is suspected to be weak, it is treated to strengthen it so that serious eye problems such as retinal detachment can be avoided. Barrage laser treatment is also performed to seal retinal tears.

Barrage laser treatment is an out-patient procedure where an intense beam of laser light is focused onto the retina. The procedure involves dilating the pupil and instilling anaesthetic drops. A special contact lens is then placed on the eye to direct the laser beam. During the laser treatment, flashes of light are seen by the patient but no pain will be felt.

The patient can continue to perform daily routine activities apart from driving on the day of treatment. You will need someone to drive you home following the procedure.