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Understanding Presbyopia & LASIK Eye Surgery

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Presbyopia is different from other vision problems because it affects everyone, eventually. Our eyes change as we age, and those changes eventually make it more difficult to focus on close objects. Reading can be especially challenging, and presbyopia is the main reason that most people over 45 years of age require reading glasses for up-close vision. LASIK eye surgery centers offer a number of popular options for treating presbyopia, and taking the strain out of close vision.

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How Presbyopia Works

When you are a child and a young adult, the lenses in your eyes have great flexibility, which makes it easier to adjust your focus for viewing close objects. Over time, your lenses begin to become more rigid, making it more difficult to focus. Most people will begin to feel symptoms of presbyopia around age 40, though the severity varies from person to person.

  • One of the first signs of presbyopia is strain while reading. You may find that you have to hold objects farther away than you would have in the past, in order to achieve the same level of focus.
  • Headaches are a common symptom, especially if you do a lot of reading for work or leisure. This is true whether you are reading from a screen, or a sheet of paper.
  • The effects of presbyopia grow more severe over time, and most people will have lost significant lens flexibility by age 65.
  • Since presbyopia happens gradually over time, it’s not always as easy to notice as other vision problems.

LASIK Eye Surgery Options for Treating Presbyopia

Reading glasses are a common option for addressing presbyopia, but they’re not a fit for everyone. Your work may make glasses impractical, or you may simply want a solution that’s less cumbersome. A number of vision correction options have proven effective for the task, and there is even a special tool for the job.

Monovision LASIK

  • Monovision LASIK is a solution for people with presbyopia. With monovision, one eye is corrected for far sight, and one is corrected for close sight.
  • The result is similar to what you would get from wearing bifocal glasses. Your eye doctor or LASIK specialist can help you simulate the effects of monovision, to see if it’s the right choice for you.

Presbyopia may affect everyone, but it doesn’t have to mean wearing reading glasses for the rest of your life. Contact a TLC laser eye surgery specialist to discuss your options for vision correction surgery.

Have You Considered Laser Eye Surgery for Your Vision Correction?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

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.
  • LASIK vision correction is an option to treat the most common vision problems, including nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
  • 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.

waking up with LASIK
  • 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.

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Understanding Diabetes and LASIK

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Is there a  connection between diabetes and LASIK surgery?  Let’s  address common concerns and considerations for potential laser vision correction candidates.

In 2021, an estimated 38.4 million people in the U.S. were living with diabetes[i]. This article explores if there is a relationship between diabetes and LASIK candidacy, provide insights into potential risks, eligibility factors, and post-surgical considerations.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes, a complex metabolic disease affecting blood glucose(sugar) levels, is characterized by insufficient insulin production or inefficient insulin utilization. Insulin helps blood sugar enter the body’s cells so it can be used for energy. Insulin also signals the liver to store blood sugar for later use. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to various health issues, including heart problems, kidney diseases, and ocular complications such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma.

Ocular Complications Associated with Diabetes

Diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma are common eye problems linked to diabetes[iii]. The risks escalate when diabetes is poorly controlled, emphasizing the importance of maintaining blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and body weight within target levels.

LASIK Eligibility for Diabetic Patients

While the FDA considers diabetes a relative contraindication for LASIK, recent research supports the safety and efficacy of LASIK in well-controlled diabetic patients[iii], [iv]. LASIK specialists evaluate factors such as diabetes duration, eye health, and blood glucose control to determine eligibility.

Diabetic and LASIK

Factors Influencing LASIK Eligibility as a Diabetic

LASIK specialists assess diabetes duration, perform comprehensive eye exams, and analyze recent HbA1C test results to gauge eligibility. The stability of glasses or contact lens prescriptions is crucial, ensuring long-term visual benefits post-surgery.

Listen to Dr. Brewer from LasikPlus, our Family of LASIK brands, talk about LASIK and diabetes.

Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes and LASIK

There is no discernible difference in LASIK outcomes between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetic patients[iii]. Pre-operative considerations apply uniformly to both groups.

Recovery Considerations for Diabetic LASIK Patients

Diabetes is associated with delayed healing, potentially increasing the risk of post-surgical infection. However, advancements in LASIK technology have improved the healing process, making LASIK a favorable option compared to other procedures.

Managing Dry Eye after LASIK for Diabetic Patients

Dry eye is generally a temporary post-surgical event, with advancements minimizing its incidence. Diabetic patients, with potential delayed corneal healing, should discuss this concern with their LASIK specialists and follow post-operative instructions.

Resuming Diabetic Eye Exams after LASIK

Maintaining regular diabetic eye exams is crucial for overall eye health, even after LASIK. An individualized LASIK procedure considers diabetes control and ensures the absence of diabetes-related effects on vision and eye health.

Diabetic patients can undergo LASIK with proper management and consideration of specific factors. Understanding the eligibility criteria, risks, and recovery process empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their eye care journey. Always consult with LASIK specialists and diabetes managing physicians for personalized guidance.

[i] American Diabetes Association. Statistics About Diabetes. https://diabetes.org/about-diabetes/statistics/about-diabetes.

[ii] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2016). What is diabetes? Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes

[iii] American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2015). LASIK in patients with diabetes. Retrieved from https://eyewiki.aao.org/LASIK_in_Patients_With_Diabetes_Mellitus#cite_note-one-1

[iv] Cobo-Soriano R, Beltrán J, Baviera J. LASIK outcomes in patients with underlying systemic contraindications: a preliminary study. Ophthalmology. 2006 Jul;113(7): 1118.e1-8.

[v] Ata A, Lee J, Bestle SL, Desemone J, Stain SC. Postoperative hyperglycemia and surgical site infection in general surgery patients. Arch Surg. 2010 Sep;145(9):858-64.

[vi] Shoja MR, Besharati MR. Dry eye after LASIK for myopia: Incidence and risk factors. Eur J Ophthalmol. 2007 Jan-Feb;17(1):1-6.

[vii] Salomão MQ, Ambrósio R Jr, Wilson SE. Dry eye associated with laser in situ keratomileusis: Mechanical microkeratome versus femtosecond laser. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2009 Oct;35(10):1756-60.

Benefits of Bladeless Custom LASIK

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

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.

LASIK doctor

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.

Anatomy of the Eye

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

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.

LASIK 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.

Top 7 Reasons to Choose TLC for Your LASIK Procedure

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

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!

LASIK referral

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.

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Seeing Life Clearly: A Guide to Vision Correction Options (Updated November 2023)

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Table of Content

Eyeglasses
Contact Lenses
Modern LASIK
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)
Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)

Glasses, contacts, surgery? With so many options for correcting vision these days, how do you determine what is best for your eyes and lifestyle? In this overview, we break down the pros and cons of today’s vision correction methods—from old standbys like eyeglasses to cutting-edge surgical procedures—to help you make a clear-eyed decision.

Non-Surgical Vision Correction:

Eyeglasses

Pros

  • Non-Invasive: Eyeglasses offer a non-invasive and easily reversible method of vision correction.
  • Versatility: Suitable for correcting various refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia.
  • Fashion Accessory: Eyeglasses have evolved into a fashion statement, enabling individuals to express their style through a wide range of frames.

Cons 

  • Peripheral Distortion: Some individuals may experience peripheral distortion or reflections, affecting the clarity of vision. Lenses may also fog when transitioning between different temperatures.
  • Limited Peripheral Vision: Frames can limit peripheral vision, which may be a concern in certain activities.
  • Weight and Discomfort: Wearing glasses can become uncomfortable due to their weight and pressure on the bridge of the nose.

Contact Lenses—Convenient But Require Care 

Pros

  • Natural Appearance: Contact lenses provide a more natural appearance without the visible presence of eyeglasses.
  • Unrestricted Field of View: Unlike glasses, contact lenses don’t obstruct peripheral vision.
  • Suitable for Active Lifestyles: Ideal for individuals with active lifestyles or those who find glasses inconvenient.   

Cons  

  • Maintenance Required: Regular cleaning and proper hygiene practices are necessary to prevent eye infections.
  • Dry Eye Disease: Some individuals may experience dry eyes as a result of wearing contact lenses.     
  • Risk of Infections: Incorrect use or poor hygiene can lead to serious eye infections.
  • Environmental Concerns: The disposal of contact lenses and their packaging contributes to environmental waste.

Refractive Surgery:

Modern LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) Custom Bladeless—Most Popular Surgery

Pros  

  • Rapid Results: LASIK often provides rapid visual recovery, with many patients experiencing improved vision within the first several hours to a day.
  • Long-Lasting: The effects of LASIK are typically long-lasting, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses.

Cons

  • Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, LASIK carries some risks, including infection, dry eyes, and changes in vision.  
  • Cost: LASIK can be a significant financial investment compared to non-surgical methods.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy):

Pros

  • No Flap Creation: PRK doesn’t involve creating a corneal flap, reducing the risk of flap-related complications.
  • Suitable for Thin Corneas: PRK may be a better option for individuals with thinner corneas.

Cons

  • Extended Recovery Time: PRK typically has a longer recovery period compared to LASIK.
  • Discomfort During Healing: Some discomfort and light sensitivity may be experienced during the initial healing phase.

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction):

Pros

  • No Flap Creation: SMILE involves a small incision rather than a corneal flap, potentially reducing complications.
  • Potential Preservation of Corneal Strength: Early studies indicate that the SMILE procedure preserves more corneal tissue, benefiting the structural integrity of the cornea.

Cons

  • Limited Availability: SMILE may not be as widely available as LASIK or PRK.
  • Similar complications to LASIK: In studies, complications can be similar to LASIK, including infection, dry eyes, and changes in vision.
  • Cost: The SMILE procedure can cost significantly more than LASIK or PRK.

EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens):

Pros

  • Reversible Procedure: EVO ICL is an implantable lens that can be removed if necessary, making the procedure reversible.
  • High Refractive Correction: EVO ICL is suitable for individuals with high degrees of myopia or hyperopia.

Cons

  • Invasive Procedure: EVO ICL involves a surgical procedure to implant the lens in the eye.
  • Potential for Complications: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications, including infection or changes in intraocular pressure, endothelial cell loss, and corneal decompensation.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K):

Pros

  • Non-Surgical: Ortho-K involves the use of specially designed contact lenses to reshape the cornea overnight without surgery.
  • Daytime Freedom: Individuals can enjoy better vision during the day without the need for glasses or lenses.

Cons

  • Temporary Effects: The effects of Ortho-K are temporary, and consistent lens wear is required for sustained results.
  • Risk of Infection: Proper hygiene practices are crucial to prevent eye infections associated with contact lens use.
  • Vision Instability: Vision may change throughout the day depending on the frequency of use.
  • Comfort: It may be challenging to sleep with a rigid contact lens on the eye.

The vision correction arena offers more excellent options than ever. But determining what works best is a personal decision based on your eyes, budget, and lifestyle. With an understanding of today’s methods, you can zero in on the choice that allows you to see life most clearly. Choosing the most suitable method involves careful consideration of the pros and cons associated with each approach, along with consultation with a qualified eye care professional. Whether opting for the convenience of eyeglasses, the flexibility of contact lenses, or the transformative effects of refractive surgery, individuals can make informed decisions to achieve optimal visual clarity and comfort.

20-20-20 Rule: Eye Care in Today’s Technology

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

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.

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