Optometry & Vision Science

Refractive Errors and Disorders

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Refractive errors occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina. The length of the eyeball (longer or shorter), changes in the shape of the cornea, or aging of the lens can cause refractive errors. The most common symptom is blurred vision. Other symptoms may include double vision, haziness, glare or halos around bright lights, squinting, headaches, or eye strain. Glasses or contact lenses can usually correct refractive errors. Laser eye surgery may also be a possibility. According to Ophthalmic Lasers: A Global Industry Outlook available from Global Industry Analysts, the global market for ophthalmic Lasers will rise from $591.5 million in 2011 to $804 million by 2015, a compound annual growth rate of 7.65 percent.

Increased acceptance of refractive surgery as a safe and reliable procedure has been a significant driver of the market to date, and improvements in the LASIK procedure will ensure that refractive surgery remains a key market for ophthalmic lasers while laser-based cataract surgery becomes established.