People who need vision correction are increasingly embracing treatment options that do not involve wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses. Traditionally, the only option was to get laser surgery to correct the refraction error. 

Some patients do not qualify for LASIK or PRK, while others prefer not to get surgery. Fortunately, an advanced corneal reshaping technique known as Gentle Vision Shaping System (GVSS) is now available.

Gentle Vision Shaping System

GVSS is a technique that uses special retainers to gradually and gently reshape the cornea. Reshaping the eye surface helps reduce or eliminate myopia or astigmatism. The vision retainers are special contact lenses worn at night. They reshape the cornea while the patient sleeps and are removed upon awakening. 

The patient can enjoy clear vision throughout the day without wearing eyeglasses or contacts. The GVSS retainers are easy to care for and comfortable. The nonsurgical procedure changes the way the cornea refracts light.

How the Cornea Works 

The cornea is the spherical, transparent bulge over the eye lens. Apart from protecting the inner eye, the cornea also functions as a lens. The shape of the cornea affects how incoming light rays are bent or refracted before passing to the retina. 

The lens focuses the rays into a sharp, clear image transmitted to the retina and optic nerve. The optic nerve then transmits the images to the brain. If the cornea is deformed, it affects refraction, resulting in the production of fuzzy images. Corrective lenses help compensate for corneal deformation. 

Corneal Reshaping Process 

Laser surgery helps reshape the cornea, eliminating the vision problem permanently. However, laser surgery is not for everyone. Those who do not qualify or would prefer not to have laser surgery can still get corneal reshaping. 

The Gentle Vision Shaping System is a reversible procedure ideal for most patients. The eye specialist will map the shape of the cornea before designing individualized and precise contact lenses. The retainers are worn at night, providing subtle corneal reshaping while the patient sleeps. 

Can GVSS Improve Eyesight? 

Again, GVSS retainers are worn all night and removed in the morning. The patient can enjoy near-perfect or perfect vision for a day or two, sometimes after a single night of wear. For the lenses to maintain clear vision, they must be worn regularly. 

Improved eyesight remains as long as the patient continues to wear the lenses. If one chooses to stop wearing the lenses, the corneas revert to their previous shape. Improved eyesight depends on continued usage. 

Adapting to the Retainers 

To get the most from your GVSS retainers, you must follow instructions. Three to five follow-up visits with the specialist will ensure your corneas are adapting to the system. Most people require follow-up visits for one month, but it can take longer. The final retainer can be worn nightly, but some patients can wear the retainer every other night. Improvements usually vary from one individual to the next. 

GVSS allows individuals to enjoy good eyesight without wearing corrective lenses. The procedure is noninvasive and more affordable than laser surgery. It is reversible, making it ideal for most individuals. It is most suitable for people with mild to moderate myopia or astigmatism. Severe cases usually require other types of correction. 

For more on whether the Gentle Vision Shaping System can improve eyesight, visit Memorial Vision at our Houston, Texas office. Call (281) 496-1635 to schedule an appointment today.