What corneal rings are
Corneal ring segments are the first FDA-approved non-laser surgical treatment in the U.S. for the correction of mild nearsightedness (myopia). An estimated 20 million U.S. adults have mild myopia, from -1.0 to -3.0 diopters, which is the treatment range for corneal rings. The rings are composed of the same material (PMMA) that has been safely used for nearly 50 years to treat patients with cataracts.

What the procedure is like
The rings are designed to remain permanently in the eye, yet they can also be removed or replaced. The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting using drops to numb your eye. It takes approximately 15 minutes to place the rings in your eye. The total procedure for one eye, including preparation time, is usually completed in less than one hour.

How the rings correct vision
Corneal rings are surgically placed through a tiny incision that is made on the cornea. Once in place, the two arcs flatten the cornea so that light rays can properly focus on the retina. Since the rings are inserted in the outer edge of the cornea, the center of the cornea remains untouched.

Benefits
Unlike other types of refractive surgery, corneal rings can be surgically removed or replaced, and the procedure preserves the central portion of the cornea, which is most important for your vision.

Risks
As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks and complications. It is important to discuss these risks with your doctor before you make your decision. Some of the post surgical symptoms include sensitivity to light, burning sensation, halos and difficulty with night vision.