How can myopia be restored to normal?
Jun 29, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen You
Introduction
Myopia cannot be reversed. Methods for correcting myopia include eyeglasses, rigid contact lenses, and refractive surgery. With various corrective approaches, visual acuity can be restored to 1.0—the standard for normal vision. However, this “normal” refers only to visual acuity; it does not alter the underlying fact that myopia is present, nor does it reverse the retinal changes associated with myopia.
People often say that the eyes are the windows to the soul—through them, one can behold all the beauty in the world. Glasses-wearers are ubiquitous on city streets. Many of us wear thick eyeglasses daily; over time, this significantly affects our appearance and imposes considerable inconvenience and limitations on daily life and physical activities. So, how can myopia be “restored” to normal?
Can Myopia Be Restored to Normal?
Myopia cannot be reversed. Methods for correcting myopia include spectacles, rigid contact lenses, and refractive surgery. With appropriate correction, visual acuity can be restored to 1.0—the standard for normal vision. However, this “normal” refers only to visual acuity; it does not alter the underlying fact that myopia is present nor reverse any retinal changes caused by myopia. At present, medical science cannot fundamentally cure myopia. The exact causes remain incompletely understood but likely involve both genetic factors and unhealthy visual habits. Therefore, prevention should focus on eliminating harmful visual behaviors: increasing outdoor activity, reducing screen time on electronic devices, and adopting healthy eye-use practices—all aimed at preventing myopia onset or slowing its progression.
The primary diagnostic method is cycloplegic refraction—administering cycloplegic agents prior to refraction to fully paralyze the ciliary muscle. If the refractive result differs markedly before and after cycloplegia—for example, −1.00 D before versus −0.50 D or even plano afterward—the condition is likely pseudomyopia. Conversely, if the pre- and post-cycloplegia refractions are nearly identical, true (axial) myopia is probable. Pseudomyopia may resolve spontaneously or with intervention, restoring vision to normal. In contrast, true myopia requires optical correction—either spectacles or contact lenses—to achieve normal visual acuity.
Patients are advised to avoid rubbing their eyes with their hands, minimize prolonged use of electronic screens, and spend more time outdoors enjoying greenery. We hope this information proves helpful.
