Non-invasive treatment to correct vision

December 1, 2010

Millions have turned to laser eye surgery, known as LASIK, to surgically improve vision rather than depending on eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, there is a new non-surgical option that offers promising results.

Gentle Vision Shaping (GVS) uses a small, hard contact lens called a retainer that gradually re-shapes the front surface of the eye (the cornea) to temporarily eliminate or reduce nearsightedness, clinically known as myopia, or astigmatism, according to GentleVisionShaping.com.

However, unlike conventional contact lenses, the GVS lenses are worn at night, rather than during the day.

"As you sleep the lens will gently reshape your cornea, flatten the center, much like Lasik only it does it without removing or destroying any tissue and molds the cornea into the shape that we want," Dr Thomas Weshefsky told WMBF news.

The lenses are removed upon awakening and provide clear vision without using eyeglasses or contact lenses. Regular, nightly wear is needed to maintain clear vision during the day.

However, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA), unlike the more permanent solution of laser eye surgery, this method does not permanently improve vision and individuals who stop wearing the retainer lenses may have their sight return to its original condition.

Individuals are encouraged to consult with an optometrist to select the treatment that best fits their visual needs.