REFRACTIVE PRODUCT RANGE

In the medical context, “refractive” refers to the bending or redirection of light rays as they pass through different media, such as the cornea, aqueous humor, lens, and vitreous humor of the eye. Refractive errors occur when the eye’s optical system fails to refract light accurately onto the retina.

The refraction of the eye is the process by which the cornea and lens bend (refract) incoming light rays to focus them onto the retina, located at the back of the eye. This process is essential for producing a clear and focused image on the retina, which is then transmitted to the brain for visual perception.

The main types of refractive errors are;

• myopia (nearsightedness): Close objects appear clear, but distant objects appear blurred.
• Hyperopia (farsightedness): Distant objects may be seen more clearly than close ones.
• Astigmatism: Blurred or distorted vision at all distances due to irregular curvature of the cornea or lens.
• Presbyopia: Age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects due to the loss of flexibility of the lens.

Symptoms of refractive errors encompass a range of visual disturbances that can significantly impact daily life. These symptoms include blurred vision, affecting clarity at any distance, and difficulty in discerning objects whether up close or far away. Eye strain and fatigue often accompany refractive errors, manifesting as discomfort after prolonged visual tasks. Headaches may also occur due to the constant effort required to focus properly. Individuals may find themselves squinting to see clearly, a reflexive response to improve visual acuity. Additionally, challenges with night driving, such as experiencing halos or glare around lights, are common indicators of refractive errors. Recognizing these symptoms prompts individuals to seek corrective measures such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery to enhance visual clarity and alleviate discomfort.

Refractive errors stem from diverse factors, encompassing abnormalities in the cornea, lens, or eyeball shape, which can distort light entering the eye. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, influencing the likelihood of developing such conditions. Environmental factors contribute to the onset of refractive errors, alongside age-related changes like presbyopia, which affects near vision as people grow older. Furthermore, eye trauma or injury can induce refractive errors, underscoring the multifaceted nature of their origins

Refractive errors are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination performed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Diagnostic tests may include visual acuity testing, refraction assessment (using a phoropter or autorefractor), measurement of intraocular pressure, evaluation of the eye’s focusing ability, and examination of the eye’s structures and health.

If you have a refractive error, your vision may be compromised in various ways depending on the type and severity of the error. Common symptoms include blurred vision, difficulty seeing objects at certain distances, eye strain, headaches, squinting, and visual fatigue. These symptoms can affect daily activities such as reading, driving, and using digital screens. Corrective measures such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery can help improve visual acuity and alleviate discomfort.

Refractive surgery encompasses a range of surgical procedures designed to correct refractive errors in the eye and reduce dependency on eyeglasses or contact lenses. These procedures aim to reshape the cornea or lens to optimize the way light rays are focused onto the retina, thereby improving visual clarity and reducing or eliminating the need for corrective lenses. Refractive surgery is typically performed by ophthalmologists specializing in corneal and refractive surgery.

Refractive surgery is considered for individuals with refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism (distorted vision), and presbyopia (age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects). Candidates for refractive surgery should have stable vision, good overall eye health, and realistic expectations regarding the outcomes and potential risks of the procedure. Refractive surgery may be a suitable option for those seeking long-term freedom from glasses or contact lenses.

While refractive surgery is generally safe and effective, it does carry potential risks and complications, as with any surgical procedure. Risks may include dry eyes, glare, halos around lights, fluctuating vision, infection, under- or over-correction of refractive error. However, the overall incidence of complications is low, especially when the surgery is performed by experienced surgeons using advanced techniques and technology.

Refractive surgery methods include LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis), PRK (photorefractive keratectomy), LASEK (laser epithelial keratomileusis), SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction), and refractive lens exchange (RLE). Each method utilizes different approaches to reshape the cornea or lens and correct refractive errors. The choice of method depends on factors such as the patient’s refractive error, corneal thickness, and overall eye health, as well as the surgeon’s expertise and preference