Can I Restore Myopia from -2 to Normal?

Is it possible to restore myopia from a -2.00 dioptres prescription to a normal vision without glasses, contacts, or laser surgery? Find out the current limitations and potential options in managing myopia.

The Unfortunate Reality

Unfortunately, if you have myopia, it's not possible to fully restore your vision from a -2.00 dioptres prescription to normal without glasses, contact lenses, or laser surgery. However, you will never need reading glasses until you are around 70 years old, which is a fortunate fact for many people.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition where the eyeballs grow too optically long. This condition appears to be genetically inherited and develops during growth, stabilizing around ages 17-21. Myopia is becoming increasingly common, sparking debate over the reasons, one of which is the idea that it is linked to accelerated growth, as exemplified by the rapid height increase in Japan post-World War I.

Though myopia is untreatable at the current time, there are steps you can take to manage it effectively. Before we dive deeper, it’s essential to rule out pseudomyopia, a condition of cramping focusing muscles that can temporarily simulate myopia. Pseudomyopia can be diagnosed by measuring vision after using dilating drops that temporarily paralyze the focusing muscles.

Potential Treatments and Management

High myopia (prescriptions of -6.00D or more) poses a risk of certain complications, including the stress between the size of the sclera (the tough outer layer of the eye) and the retina (the light-sensitive film). These complications might be due to the difference in embryonic origins of these tissues.

There are currently three main methods to correct myopia:

Corrective Lenses: Glasses and contact lenses are used to realign the optics for clearer vision. These can be worn continuously or intermittently, depending on individual requirements. Orthokeratology: Nighttime wear of contact lenses that reshape the cornea to correct vision during the day. This method avoids the need for daytime correction. Refractive Surgery: Procedures like LASIK alter the curvature of the cornea to correct myopia permanently. This is an invasive procedure, but it can provide long-term relief from glasses and contacts.

My Advice for Managing Myopia

If you wear corrective lenses frequently, it is generally a good idea to wear them consistently. This ensures your eyes function normally, focusing on distant objects when relaxed. Prolonged usage does not worsen your myopia.

However, if you take your glasses off occasionally, the effects on your vision are akin to using reading glasses, especially for those with moderate prescriptions. Consistent wear protects your glasses from getting lost or damaged.

Conclusion

While complete restoration of myopia from -2.00 to normal may not be possible, there are effective management strategies. Choose the method that best suits your lifestyle and priorities. Remember, the key is regular check-ups and consistent care to maintain your vision.