For many people with vision problems, glasses and contact lenses, are simply a part of life. In fact, a recent poll indicates that many people who wear glasses or contacts to deal with vision problems either aren’t aware of LASIK eye surgery, or aren’t familiar with how the laser eye surgery process works. While the right vision care solution for you ultimately comes down to individual factors, now is a great time to consider the benefits of LASIK vision correction.
Dealing with Vision Problems? Why You Should Consider LASIK Eye Surgery
The LASIK vision correction process begins when you schedule your free consultation, and meet with your local laser eye surgery team. Your consultation is the time to learn more about laser eye surgery options available, what the best options are for your individual vision needs, and to get answers to all your questions. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn the facts about what LASIK eye surgery is like, and how the process works.
LASIK is an outpatient procedure, so you get to go home the same day. The surgery only takes around 15 minutes, for both eyes.
The procedure is so brief in part because much of the prep work is done before-hand, when you meet with your laser eye surgery team.
From pre-op planning to post-op checkups, the whole laser eye surgery process takes place at your local LASIK center.
If you’re in good overall health, have had a steady vision prescription for at least one year, and are over 18 years of age, then your laser eye surgery candidacy is already off to a great start.
The Lifestyle Benefits of LASIK Vision Correction
Ask a LASIK patient about the benefits of having laser eye surgery, and you’ll find some common themes, along with the unique, personal ways that each individual enjoys clear vision. Freedom is a very common word when you hear people talk about LASIK results, whether that means the freedom to rekindle an interest in a favorite hobby, or the joy of experiencing the little things in life without always having to worry about vision correction devices.
While nobody can promise that you’ll never have to wear glasses or contacts again, many LASIK patients are able to rely significantly less on vision correction devices after having the procedure.
Wouldn’t it be nice to wake up, look at the alarm clock, and realize you don’t need to scramble for your glasses to start the day? What about attending an event with the family, and always being ready to snap the right photo, at the right moment?
Thinking of traveling to a new place, or simply enjoying the scenery close to home? Enjoy every moment with the benefit of clearer vision, and worry less about what will happen if you forget your glasses or contacts at home.
Perhaps you enjoy playing sports, creating art, or taking part in other hobbies that require a sharp eye for detail. With clearer vision, you will have the freedom to enjoy your favorite hobbies with a new-found freedom.
When you’re ready to learn more about LASIK vision correction and understand if you’re a candidate for LASIK, our team is here to help. Schedule your free consultation at your local TLC Laser Eye Center with a phone call, or by filling out a quick form on our website.
If you’re researching your laser eye surgery options, you may have seen bladeless LASIK also referred to as blade-free LASIK or all-laser LASIK or modern LASIK. Your eye doctor can help you choose the right procedure for you and your vision needs, but in this post, we review several benefits for a bladeless LASIK procedure.
How are flaps created for LASIK?
Traditional LASIK creates a flap in the cornea with a microkeratome. This device uses a blade to cut a thin flap in the cornea. After the flap is created it is lifted, the eye is reshaped using am excimer laser. With blade-free LASIK, a femtosecond laser uses light energy to create a similar flap, therefore no blades are ever used. This laser is very gentile to the human cornea and has precision down to 10 microns. The largest benefit of blade-free LASIK is a significant reduction in intra-operative complications.
What are the benefits of Bladeless LASIK?
There are many clinical benefits of all-laser LASIK. First, there are significantly fewer intra-operative complications. Second, there is a reduction of post-operative complications such as diffuse lamellar keratitis, flap straie, and epithelial ingrowth. Finally, because the flaps are of a more precise thickness, patient’s with greater refractive errors or thin corneas may be treated safely with LASIK. Previously, these patient may not have been good candidates for LASIK.
Is Custom Bladeless LASIK Right for Me?
At TLC Laser Eye Centers, because the benefits of bladeless LASIK are so significant, it is the only way we perform LASIK eye surgery.
Perhaps you’ve thought about laser eye surgery in the past, but have been put off after sifting through some of the myths and misinformation about the procedure. Or, perhaps you have a friend who told you she heard “this,” or he heard “that” about LASIK eye surgery. With all the myths and misinformation out there, how do you determine the truth? Don’t let yourself be misled by incorrect information. Get the facts about LASIK and let’s debunk these common LASIK myths.
Myth: LASIK is painful
It is completely natural to worry if there will be pain when undergoing any procedure. The good news, however, is that LASIK patients rarely report any pain. Drops are used to numb the eyes. Typically, you will feel some slight pressure at the start of the procedure, which will last a couple of minutes.
Myth: LASIK is such a new surgery that all the potential risks and side effects aren’t known yet
It is a common misconception that LASIK eye surgery is a new procedure. People fear this “new and unknown” operation. In fact, laser eye surgery was invented in the 1980s, with the first US procedure occurring in 1987.[i] This means that LASIK has been performed in the US for over 30 years! Moreover, the technology continues to improve, which means better results for you.
Myth: LASIK only works on nearsighted patients
Two factors have led to the prevalence of this myth. One, nearsightedness is one of the most common eye conditions, so of course, many LASIK patients are nearsighted. Two, when LASIK first came on the scene, it was only used to treat nearsightedness (also called “myopia”). Today, LASIK eye surgery can treat much more than just nearsightedness, including other refractive errors such as farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.
Myth: You will never need glasses again after having LASIK
This myth is a yes and no. After LASIK, you will most likely be able to ditch your glasses! According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 8 out of 10 people who undergo LASIK eye surgery no longer need glasses or contact lenses for most of their activities.[ii] However, you may still need your glasses for certain activities (like driving at night or reading). Additionally, having undergone LASIK will not change the fact that your eyes will continue to age naturally, which may mean a change in vision down the road.
Myth: You can go blind from LASIK
The fear of going blind is very common, but it is extremely uncommon to experience vision loss due to laser eye surgery. There has never been a reported case of a patient going blind from LASIK.[iii] LASIK is a safe and effective procedure when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon.
Myth: The treatment time is very long
Most patients are surprised to find out how quickly the procedure is over, often in as little as 15 minutes. Recovery time is also not typically a lengthy process. People can go home immediately after the procedure and back to their everyday schedule within 24 hours. However, it is important to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
Myth: LASIK is too expensive for most people to afford
Don’t write off LASIK as too expensive before doing some research. There are a variety of payment options to look into:
Insurance savings: TLC Laser Eye Centers partners with most vision and health insurance companies to give members savings on LASIK.
Health Savings Accounts (HSA): These accounts can be used to pay for elective services like LASIK and other laser eye surgeries.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA): If you have an FSA, you may be able to use that money toward LASIK eye surgery.
Financing options: Many providers offer financing options to make LASIK more affordable. TLC Laser Eye Centers works with CareCredit to offer patients attractive financing options that make your LASIK procedure as affordable as possible.
Myth: You’re too old to get LASIK
You may assume you’re too old to bother getting laser eye surgery, or that your eyes are “too far gone.” In fact, there is no age limit for receiving LASIK! Even patients in their 60s experience clearer vision with laser eye surgery. However, it is important to consult with a LASIK specialist to determine if you’re a good candidate for LASIK based on your individual eye health and other factors.
Myth: LASIK can’t treat astigmatism
Astigmatism is a common eye condition that results in a distortion of the image on the retina of the eye due to an imperfection in the curvature of the cornea. This can make it difficult to treat with glasses or contact lenses. The good news is that LASIK eye surgery treats common refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK can effectively correct astigmatism by reshaping the cornea to improve the way light enters the eye.
Are you ready to move past the myths and get the facts about LASIK eye surgery? Schedule a free consultation with a LASIK specialist at a TLC Laser Eye Center location near you.
Laser eye surgery, known as LASIK, has revolutionized vision correction for millions of people worldwide. However, despite its widespread success, there are still common myths and misconceptions surrounding the procedure that can deter potential candidates from exploring this life-changing option. In this article, we will delve deeper into these myths and provide accurate information to help you make an informed decision about LASIK eye surgery.
One prevailing myth suggests that LASIK is a painful procedure. It is understandable that individuals may have concerns about experiencing discomfort during any medical intervention. However, LASIK patients typically report minimal to no pain. The eyes are numbed with drops before the surgery, and any sensations felt during the procedure are often described as slight pressure, which lasts only a few minutes.
Another myth revolves around the perception that LASIK is a relatively new and untested procedure, leading to concerns about unknown risks and side effects. Contrary to this belief, LASIK has been performed for over 30 years since its invention in the 1980s. The technology and techniques have evolved significantly during this time, making LASIK a well-established and highly refined surgical option. Continuous advancements in laser technology and surgical techniques contribute to improved outcomes and enhanced safety for patients.
One misconception suggests that LASIK is exclusively effective for nearsightedness. This myth persists due to two main factors. Firstly, nearsightedness is a prevalent refractive error, and many individuals seeking vision correction are nearsighted. Secondly, when LASIK was initially introduced, it primarily targeted nearsightedness. However, LASIK has advanced to address various refractive errors, including farsightedness, astigmatism, and even a combination of these conditions. Therefore, LASIK offers a comprehensive solution for a wide range of visual impairments.
A commonly heard myth asserts that LASIK eliminates the need for glasses altogether. While it is true that the majority of LASIK patients experience significant improvements in their vision and reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses, it does not guarantee absolute freedom from corrective eyewear. According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 80% of LASIK patients achieve clear vision without glasses for most activities. However, certain circumstances, such as driving at night or engaging in detailed close-up work, may still require the use of glasses. Additionally, it is essential to remember that aging and other natural factors can affect vision over time, which may necessitate the use of glasses or additional vision correction methods in the future.
One of the most common concerns surrounding LASIK is the fear of going blind as a result of the procedure. It is crucial to emphasize that the risk of vision loss due to LASIK is extremely rare. In fact, there has never been a reported case of a patient going blind from LASIK. LASIK is a meticulously performed surgery by skilled and experienced surgeons who prioritize patient safety and carefully evaluate eligibility criteria. By adhering to rigorous pre-operative assessments and post-operative care, the risk of adverse outcomes is significantly minimized.
Another myth implies that LASIK procedures are time-consuming and require lengthy recovery periods. Contrary to this misconception, LASIK is a relatively quick procedure, often completed in as little as 15 minutes per eye. Patients can typically return home immediately after the surgery and resume their daily activities within 24 hours. However, it is essential to follow the post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure proper healing and optimize the recovery process.
Affordability is a significant consideration for many individuals contemplating LASIK. However, assuming LASIK is too expensive without conducting thorough research may lead to missed opportunities. Various payment options exist to make LASIK more accessible. Some vision and health insurance companies partner with LASIK providers to offer savings to their members. Additionally, Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) can often be utilized to cover LASIK expenses. Furthermore, many LASIK providers offer financing options, such as attractive payment plans or partnerships with third-party financing companies, making LASIK more affordable for a broader range of individuals.
Age should not be a deterrent when considering LASIK. Another myth suggests that individuals are too old to benefit from laser eye surgery. However, there is no specific age limit for LASIK candidacy. Even patients in their 60s can experience significant improvements in vision through LASIK. The suitability for LASIK depends on several factors, such as overall eye health and stability of the prescription. Consulting with a LASIK specialist can help determine whether an individual is a good candidate for the procedure, regardless of their age.
Lastly, some individuals believe that LASIK cannot effectively treat astigmatism. Astigmatism is a common refractive error characterized by an irregular curvature of the cornea, resulting in distorted vision. The good news is that LASIK is a versatile procedure that can effectively correct astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea using laser technology, LASIK can address the irregularities and restore clearer vision for individuals with astigmatism.
In conclusion, LASIK eye surgery has debunked many myths and misconceptions over the years, emerging as a safe, effective, and widely practiced procedure for vision correction. Understanding the facts is essential in making an informed decision about LASIK. By dispelling these common myths, individuals can confidently explore the potential benefits of LASIK eye surgery. Schedule a free consultation with a LASIK specialist at a reputable TLC Laser Eye Center near you to gather accurate information and determine the best course of action for your vision correction needs.
LASIK eye surgery is a popular procedure that can correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. In general, it is a safe procedure with a low complication rate, but it is important to weigh the risks and benefits before making a decision.
How Safe Is LASIK?
The safety of LASIK has been studied extensively. The complication rate for LASIK is estimated to be less than 1%. The most common complications are dry eyes and glare, which usually go away on their own within a few weeks or months. Other, more serious complications, such as infection and corneal ectasia, are rare.
Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK?
Not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK. You may not be a good candidate if you have:
Corneal ectasia (a thinning of the cornea that can lead to vision loss)
Should I Get LASIK Eye Surgery?
The decision of whether or not to get LASIK eye surgery is a personal one. You should weigh the risks and benefits carefully and discuss the procedure with your eye doctor.
If you are considering LASIK eye surgery, it is important to do your research and choose a qualified LASIK surgeon. You should also ask about the surgeon’s experience with LASIK and their number of procedures performed.
I hope this article has helped you learn more about the safety of LASIK eye surgery. Like any surgery, LASIK has risks and potential complications that are discussed during a surgical consultation prior to the procedure. If you have any further questions, please consult with your eye doctor.
Many people fear blindness more than any other disability. We use our eyes in virtually everything we do, and we depend on our vision to steer us through our daily lives.
The eye allows us to see the shapes, colors and dimensions of objects by processing the light they reflect or give off. The anatomy of the eye allows humans to see in dim light or bright light, but not in the absence of light. The eye changes light rays into electrical signals and then sends the signals to the brain. The brain interprets these electrical signals as visual images.
The eye measures approximately one inch in diameter and is set in a protective cone-shaped cavity in the skull called the orbit or socket. The orbit is surrounded by layers of soft, fatty tissue that protect the eye and allow it to turn easily. Six muscles regulate the motion of the eye. Among the more important parts of the anatomy of the human eye are the cornea, conjunctiva, iris, lens, retina, macula and the optic nerve.
Cornea
The cornea is sometimes referred to as the “window of the eye.” It provides most of the focusing power when light enters your eye. The cornea is composed of five layers of tissue. The outer layer is the epithelium. This layer is made up of highly regenerative cells that allows for fast healing of superficial injuries. The two middle layers of the cornea provide strength, shape and structural stability to the eye. The two inside layers work to keep fluid out of the cornea and maintain its optical clarity. LASIK laser vision correction is performed on this part of the eye.
Lens
The lens is the clear structure located behind the iris. Its primary function is to provide fine-tuned focusing for near vision. The lens performs this function by altering its shape to become thinner or thicker as necessary. Between the ages of 40 and 50, the lens becomes less flexible and presbyopia sets in. As people reach their 60s or 70s, the lens can become cloudy and hard (cataract formation), preventing light from entering the eye.
Pupil
The pupil is the hole in the center of your iris (the colored part of your eye). The primary function of the pupil is to control the amount of light entering your eye. When you are in a bright environment, the iris constricts, causing the pupil to become smaller to allow less light to pass through. When it is dark, the pupil expands to allow more light to reach the back of your eye.
Iris
The iris provides the color of the eye (i.e. blue/green/brown/hazel). The iris’ main role is to control the size of the pupil through contraction or expansion.
Vitreous Body
This is the clear, gel-like substance located inside the eye’s cavity. The purpose of the vitreous body is to provide a spherical shape to the eye. The vitreous may develop small clumps known as floaters. These are more common in nearsighted people than in the rest of the population.
Retina
The retina consists of fine nerve tissue that lines the inside wall of the eye and acts like the film in a camera. Its primary function is to transmit images to the brain. When your vision is perfect, the light rays coming into your eye focus precisely on this part of your eye.
Optic Nerve
The optic nerve carries electrical signals from the retina to the brain.
Sclera
The sclera is the white part of the eye’s anatomy. The sclera’s purpose is to provide structure, strength and protection to the eye.
If you’ve made the decision to pursue LASIK eye surgery, you are probably excited to take the next step toward your best vision without full time dependence on glasses and contacts. You may have researched the details on LASIK surgery itself, but what about LASIK providers? It is important to research your providers in order to find one that you feel comfortable with. Read on to learn more about what to look for in a provider, and why TLC Laser Eye Centers is your optimum LASIK provider!
Reason #1: Experienced LASIK Surgeons
The Laser eye center that you choose should only work with expert surgeons who are up-to-date on current trends and technologies in the field of LASIK eye surgery. Often, leading LASIK surgeons will maintain their expertise by seeking additional clinical training and certifications, such as those issued by American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). Knowledgeable LASIK surgeons and their clinical teams will also diligently screen patients for candidacies, and only accept patients who meet all the qualifications required for the procedure.
The LASIK specialists at TLC Laser Eye Centers have performed over 2.3 million LASIK procedures. Not only do the surgeons have plenty of experiences, but also over 7,000 eye doctors have chosen TLC Laser Eye Centers for their own LASIK surgeries, demonstrating that TLC Laser Eye Centers is a trusted provider with experienced, skilled LASIK surgeons.
Reason #2: The Latest Laser Technologies
Medical technologies are always changing and improving, and a well-informed provider carefully monitors these LASIK advancements and is constantly making clinical decisions on adapting new technologies to deliver the best possible patient outcomes.
TLC Laser Eye Centers are passionate about using the latest laser technologies to care for our LASIK patients. Using modern LASIK, or bladeless LASIK, is just one example of how we provide personalized, custom LASIK treatments for each individual who comes to TLC Laser Eye Centers.
In addition to modern LASIK, TLC Laser Eye Centers also offer other vision correction procedures in order to match the best technology to each patient, including Contoura Vision and PRK. Having access to advanced patient testing instruments and multiple vision correction surgical technologies, our surgeons can determine the most suitable vision correction option to enhance our patients’ vision. At TLC Laser Eye Centers, we are committed to quality care and patient safety.
Reason #3: Affordable LASIK
There is a range of costs when you compare potential LASIK providers. Remember that the least expensive provider won’t necessarily be the best. In addition, many providers also offer financing to help achieve your goal of laser vision correction. It’s important to weigh all your considerations when you evaluate different LASIK centers. Your chosen provider should have the right surgeon and the right equipment for you to help make your LASIK dreams a reality.
TLC Laser Eye Centers offers LASIK financing options to help meet your needs. We work with insurance plans and companies to offer LASIK discounts to its members and employees. You may also be able to use funds from a Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account toward your LASIK eye surgery.
Reason #4: Referrals
When searching for any type of provider, you can’t underestimate the value of referrals from trusted friends or family. LASIK surgery is very popular; chances are you know one or several people who have had LASIK and are happy with their results. In addition to inquiring with your eye doctors, don’t forget to ask your family or friends about their experiences and which provider they recommend!
Reason #5: Location
You need a provider that is close by. After all, it may not be most ideal to travel long distances before and after your quick LASIK procedure. With convenient, nationwide locations, you can find a TLC Laser Eye Center near you!
Reason #6: Commitment
Find a provider who is committed to you and your vision—not just now, but in the future as well. Your visual needs may change with time, if you were to need a retreatment or an enhancement down the road, you want to know that your provider will be available.
With the TLC Lifetime Commitment program, you can be sure that TLC Laser Eye Centers will stand by you. We are dedicated to helping you maintain the best possible vision throughout your lifetime.
Reason #7: A Solid Partner
At TLC Laser Centers, we know that no one is more familiar with your eye health than your own eye doctor. That’s why TLC affiliated Doctors of Optometry will be an important part of your LASIK team. These optometric physicians partner with TLC Laser Centers because of our record of safety and patient satisfaction, as well as our years of experience in the field. By partnering with optometrists across the country, not only can we help you make the best decisions about your LASIK procedure, but we are also in the best position to care for you, both before and after your laser eye surgery.
If you’d like to learn more about the TLC commitment to vision, schedule a free LASIK consultation at a location near you.
Vision problems have long been a fact of life for humans, and for centuries glasses (and later, contact lenses) were the only solution available to most people. The first glasses were developed in the 13th century, the first contacts were created in 1888, and it wasn’t until the 1970s that procedures like LASIK eye surgery began to take shape. LASIK technology is always advancing, and the history of laser eye surgery goes a long way toward explaining why people with vision problems have so many potential treatment options today.
Laser Eye Surgery Research in the 1970s
The story of LASIK begins long before the first procedure was performed, in the research halls of major universities and businesses. Throughout the late 1970s, a procedure called Radial Keratotomy (RK), which shares similarities with LASIK, was performed in the United States. A major breakthrough came in 1980, when IBM researcher Rangaswamy Srinivasan discovered that the excimer laser – initially developed for computer chip production – was able to remove living tissue without causing thermal damage. Surgeon Steven Trokel of Columbia University published a key study in 1985 detailing the effectiveness of the excimer laser for RK surgery, which helped pave the way for LASIK eye surgery.
The First Laser Vision Correction Procedure (1988)
The first laser vision correction procedure took place in 1988, when a 60-year old woman with a serious vision problem allowed surgeon Marguerite McDonald to perform the first photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) procedure on her damaged eye. PRK surgery was approved by Canada in 1991, approved by the US in 1995, and remains in use to this day.
The Development of LASIK Eye Surgery
While the results of the first PRK surgery helped allow the procedure to reach the wider market, European eye doctors Ioannis Pallikaris and Lucio Burrato were busy working on ways to optimize laser eye surgery. They made the discovery that creating a “flap” in the cornea, rather than treating the surface, helped to minimize post-surgery discomfort and speed up the healing process. The flap allows surgeons to address vision problems at the source, and works as a natural bandage to help with the healing process. This was the beginning of LASIK eye surgery as we know it today, and LASIK was approved for use in the United States in 1999.
Refining LASIK and Creating New Procedures
In the present day, LASIK eye surgery is still on a path of innovation, as scientists and eye doctors continue to develop new technology. Patients can now choose unique options like Bladeless LASIK, which relies on a laser to create the flap, rather than a blade. The excimer laser remains a key part of laser eye surgery, and continues to be optimized over time.
Advances in the technology used to map the eye before surgery have also been a big part of the LASIK story, with procedures like Custom LASIK and Topography-Guided LASIK providing more precise data than ever to help plan your procedure. The detailed data helps surgeons customize your procedure to deliver the best results for your unique vision care needs. LASIK patients truly now have more options than ever before.
If the history of laser eye surgery tells us anything, it’s to expect LASIK technology to continue evolving. Procedures like Bladeless “all-laser” LASIK , Topography-Guided LASIK, and Custom LASIK each offer unique benefits, but none of it would have been possible without the many people who contributed to the development of laser eye surgery.
If you are considering LASIK eye surgery for your vision correction, start with a Free Consultation at a local TLC Laser Eye Center near you. It’s a great opportunity to meet with our caring staff and get all your questions answered.
Digital screens are everywhere. We work with screens, play with screens, and look at screens while we’re waiting in line. All of that screen-time comes with potential downsides, and may take a toll on our eyes over time. To try to minimize the negative effects and digital eye strain of extensive time looking at screens, many eye doctors suggest using the 20-20-20 rule as part of your eye health care. The catchy name makes it easy to remember, and ahead we’ll dive into the details of exactly how the 20-20-20 rule works.
Eye Care and Digital Eye Strain
What is the 20-20-20 rule?
Whether you’re using a phone, computer, tablet or watching TV, the idea behind the 20-20-20 rule is actually very simple: every 20 minutes that you’re looking at a screen, take a break and stare at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. That’s it. You don’t have to worry about walking off the distance, or pulling out a tape measure to make sure that the object is exactly 20 feet away. The idea is to pick an object that is close to 20 feet away.
The trick is making sure that you remember to do it every 20 minutes when you’re using a digital screen, and making sure that you look at the object for at least 20 seconds. This is a rule that you can follow almost anywhere, whether using a screen for productivity or enjoyment.
What about activities that don’t require a screen?
Screen time isn’t the only activity that can cause eye strain, and the 20-20-20 rule may apply in other situations, as well. If you’re reading a paper book, writing, or doing work that requires you to focus your vision consistently on very small details, then it may also be a good idea to give your eyes a rest using the 20-20-20 rule. No matter what activity you’re doing, the basics behind the 20-20-20 rule remain the same when considering your eye health care. Take a break every 20 minutes to look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Do I really have to do it every 20 minutes?
When you’re working, reading, or watching a video, it’s easy to get caught up in what you’re doing. But yes, it’s a good idea to stay on schedule with the 20-20-20 rule whenever possible. The good news is that most of the devices you’ll be using will also have built in timers you can use to set reminders. Setting 20-20-20 reminders on your computer and phone is a great way to stay on track, and eventually taking those breaks simply becomes a habit.
Why follow the 20-20-20 rule?
Humans normally blink about 15 times per minute, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. However, when using a computer or other digital screens, we may only blink about one-third as often, which can lead to eye strain.
Digital eye strain caused by extensive screen use may be connected to certain vision problems, and can cause unpleasant symptoms like dry eyes, headache, light sensitivity, and eye fatigue. So in addition to potentially helping with long-term eye health issues, the 20-20-20 rule can also be an easy way to help limit some of the most common symptoms that come with extensive digital screen time.
If you have any questions about the 20-20-20 rule, how it works, or how it applies to you, speak with your eye health care provider to learn more. If you don’t have an eye doctor, use our doctor search to find a TLC Affiliate Eye Doctor near you. It’s a small step to take, and it may make a big difference.
