What Lens Do Nearsighted People Use? A Complete Guide

Nearsightedness refers to the condition of myopia where far away objects are blurry while close by objects can be seen clearly. According to the American Optometric Association, myopia affects nearly 30% of the U.S. population, and that number seems to be increasing annually. Blurred distance vision can be corrected with the appropriate lenses. But what options do lenses available to people with myopia? Let’s find out.

What Type of Lens Corrects Nearsightedness?

People suffering from myopia have need of concave lenses, more commonly called minus (-) lenses. These lenses are constructed in a fashion that they spread light rays outward before they enter the eye so that the light rays converge on the retina and not in front of it.

How Concave Lenses Work

The minus lenses, which are referred to as concave, are thinner in the center and thicker at the edges.

• Brings the retina into focus to improve distance vision and better align with the focal point.
• Diopter degree is how the lens strength is measured. Diopters like -1.50D and -3.00D show nearsightedness correction.

Types of Lenses for Nearsighted People

Some of the corrective aids available to nearsighted persons include:

1. Single Vision Glasses

By far the most common type of prescription lens for myopia. Gives a clear view of far away objects but may need reading glasses if close up tasks are required.

2. High Index Lenses for Thinner and Lighter Prescriptions

Recommended for patients with stronger prescriptions of -4.00D or larger. This type of lens is thinner and lighter than most available lenses and creates better comfort.

Additional Notes: Aesthetically they don’t look bulky.

3. Aspheric Lenses

Help further distance vision while giving peripheral view as well as correcting the shape and reducing flaws in lenses.

4. Contacts

Works best for treating myopia. Come in different types (monthly, daily, bi-weekly disposables) soft lenses, rigid gas permeable lenses, or hybrid contact lenses.

5. Ortho-K Lenses

Specialized gas permeable lenses that reshape the cornea. Allows user to see without glasses during the day, while helping young people control myopia progression.

6. Bifocal and Progressive Lenses

Treat myopia combined with presbyopia. Use of progressive changes between assorted ranges (further distance or closer). Further distance lenses require more power, while closer range looking requires less power. The lenses in this case are separated in two sections, near view and distance view.

How to Choose Lenses for Myopia

The best lens for myopia follows the general guidelines below. Note that a person’s lifestyle, preferences, and level of prescription all play a role:

• Less than -3.75 D: Mild to moderate myopia diagnosed → Standard single vision glasses or contact lenses.
• -4.00 D and above: Strong prescriptions → Use high index lenses to minimize thickness and weight of the glasses.
• Contacts or Ortho-K lenses: For ease of use.
• Presbyopia: For all distance viewing clad in bifocal or progressive lenses.

In cases where distance vision is blurry, a thorough eye exam calibrating the gaps with the right lenses is offered at Refine Optometry, Palo Alto optometry. Dr. Joy Lam and her team spend time with each patient tailoring the ideal corrective lenses solution that fits their life, including the diagnosis and customization. Book the appointment today.

FAQs

1. Do Nearsighted People Need Glasses All the Time?

People with myopia do not always have to wear glasses. Mild cases like watching TV, driving, or seeing objects far are activities done using glasses.

2. Are Contacts Better than Glasses for Myopia?

Contacts enable movement, but the choice boils down to preference. Glasses are easy to wear and maintain while offering a wide field of vision.

3. Is it true that LASIK Surgery Can Permanently Cure Nearsightedness?

Corrective surgeries, including LASIK, treat myopia by reducing reliance on glasses or contact lenses by surgically reshaping the cornea.

4. Which Lens is Most Suitable for Patients with High Myopia?

People with strong prescriptions will be best served by either high-index or Ortho-K lenses from the standpoint of comfort and optimal vision correction.

With the proper knowledge about the different lens options, one can better choose which option best addresses the problem of nearsightedness. Are you looking for an expert’s help? Contact Refine Optometry in Palo Alto and book an appointment now!