Table of Contents
- Overview of vision correction methods for myopia
- Principle of myopia correction
- 2.1 Altering light refraction
- 2.2 How glasses and contact lenses work
- 2.3 How orthokeratology and LASIK work
- Comparison of various myopia correction methods: advantages and disadvantages
- 3.1 Glasses
- 3.2 Contact lenses
- 3.3 Orthokeratology
- 3.4 LASIK
Overview of vision correction methods for myopia
In today’s digital age, with the widespread use of the Internet and smartphones, it is no exaggeration to say that people are in constant contact with electronic devices. This constant strain on our eyes has contributed to an increase in vision problems.
Fortunately, the options for correcting myopia are expanding. In addition to traditional solutions like glasses and contact lenses, newer methods such as LASIK (a surgical procedure to correct vision) and orthokeratology (a non-surgical treatment using special lenses worn overnight) are gaining attention. Orthokeratology lenses, worn while sleeping, allow for clear vision during the day without the need for corrective eyewear.
Principle of myopia correction
Altering light refraction
Glasses, contact lenses, orthokeratology, and LASIK each use different methods to correct myopia.
To correct myopia, the way light is refracted must be adjusted so that it focuses correctly on the retina. There are two primary approaches to achieve this.

How glasses and contact lenses work
Altering light refraction before it reaches the retina
For glasses or contact lenses, a concave lens (used for myopia) is placed in front of the cornea to focus light properly onto the retina.

How orthokeratology and LASIK work
Altering the refractive index of light by reshaping the cornea
With orthokeratology lenses and LASIK surgery, the cornea is reshaped (flattened) to adjust the refractive index of light, helping it focus properly on the retina.


Comparison of various myopia correction methods: advantages and disadvantages
Each of the four myopia correction methods – glasses, contact lenses, orthokeratology, and LASIK – has its own distinct characteristics, along with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
It is important to consult with your local ophthalmologist or clinic to determine the ideal treatment option based on your eye condition and lifestyle.
Glasses
Advantages
- Easy to put on and take off
- Low risk of infection and corneal damage
- Generally easy to care for
- No limit on wearing time
- Eye drops can be used during the day
- Can be a stylish fashion accessory
Disadvantages
- Altered appearance
- Not suitable for strenuous exercise and can be fragile
- Objects may appear distorted at higher prescription strengths
- Not ideal when there is a significant power difference between both eyes
- Lens can fog up due to temperature changes
Contact Lenses
Advantages
- No change in appearance
- Provides a wider field of vision
- Less distortion of vision, even with strong prescriptions
- Suitable even for those with significant power difference between both eyes
- Effective for correcting high myopia and high astigmatism
Disadvantages
- Potential dryness or foreign body sensation
- Not suitable for individuals with severe dry eyes or allergies
- Therapeutic eye drops may not be compatible with lens wear
- Requires time-consuming care (except for daily disposables)
Orthokeratology
Advantages
- Allows for clear vision during the day without glasses or contact lenses
- Suitable for sports and other activities without corrective lenses
- Eye drops can be used during the day
- The cornea returns to its normal shape once lens wear is discontinued.
- No surgery required, reducing psychological stress
- Can help slow myopia progression
Disadvantages
- Achieving stable vision may take time
- Vision may be slightly blurred in low-light environments, like at night
- May not be suitable for those with severe myopia, astigmatism, or certain eye conditions (e.g., dry eyes, allergies, keratoconus, retinal conditions)
- Requires the same care as standard hard contact lenses
- High initial cost
LASIK
Advantages
- Enables living with clear vision without glasses or contact lenses
- Immediate results after the procedure
- No recurring costs for purchasing care products, etc.
Disadvantages
- May cause blurred vision in low-light environments, such as at night
- Can lead to dry eyes post-surgery
- Corneal shape cannot be restored once altered
- High cost of surgery
- Long-term outcomes after surgery are uncertain