How to correct vision
Aug 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, vision correction can be achieved through various methods such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, rigid gas permeable contact lenses, corneal refractive surgery, and lens-based refractive surgery. The selection of a vision correction method should be based on a comprehensive assessment of age, refractive error, ocular conditions, and individual needs. Regardless of the chosen method, medical refraction must first be performed to determine the refractive status.
Generally, vision correction can be achieved through various methods such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses, corneal refractive surgery, and lens-based refractive surgery. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses are a commonly used non-surgical method of vision correction. They adjust the refraction of light using concave or convex lenses to accurately focus images on the retina. Suitable for individuals of all ages, especially children and adolescents, eyeglasses are safe, convenient, and cost-effective. Regular eye examinations are necessary to adjust the prescription and avoid visual fatigue caused by outdated prescriptions.
2. Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are worn directly on the surface of the cornea and operate on optical principles similar to eyeglasses but reduce image distortion and field-of-view limitations associated with glasses. They are suitable for individuals concerned with aesthetics or those with active lifestyles. Proper daily cleaning and care are essential, and wearing time should be limited. Contact lenses should be used cautiously by individuals with dry eye syndrome or keratitis.
3. Rigid Gas-Permeable Contact Lenses
Made from highly oxygen-permeable materials, these lenses are suitable for patients with high myopia, astigmatism, or keratoconus. Their rigid material provides more stable vision correction and offers better oxygen permeability than soft contact lenses, reducing the risk of corneal hypoxia. However, they may cause a foreign-body sensation initially and require an adaptation period of approximately one to two weeks.
4. Corneal Refractive Surgery
This method involves reshaping the cornea using laser ablation to alter its refractive power. Procedures include laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE). It is suitable for individuals over 18 years of age with stable refractive errors. SMILE offers a small incision and rapid recovery, making it ideal for sports enthusiasts. However, preoperative assessments including corneal thickness and curvature measurements are necessary to determine suitability.
5. Lens-Based Refractive Surgery
Phakic intraocular lens implantation involves implanting an artificial lens within the eye to correct vision. It is suitable for patients with high myopia or thin corneas who are not candidates for laser surgery. This procedure is reversible and preserves corneal integrity. However, as it is an intraocular procedure, it carries risks such as infection and cataract formation, and strict adherence to indications is required.
Choosing the appropriate vision correction method requires comprehensive consideration of age, refractive error, ocular conditions, and personal needs. Regardless of the chosen method, medical refraction should be performed initially to determine the refractive status, and regular follow-up eye examinations are necessary to prevent vision damage caused by improper correction.
