Kudret Eye IstanbulEye Diseases
Eye Fatigue is the Cause of False Myopia!
The ophthalmologists at Kudret Eye İstanbul explain false myopia, a common but little-known condition in young people in which strained focusing…
Refractive Errors in Children
- Op. Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek
- Last updated:
- 4 min read
- Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Nail Sönmez
Refractive Errors in Children
Children usually cannot express their vision problems. For this reason, regular eye examinations in children and babies are of great importance. Some children may blink excessively when reading, frown and rub their eyes constantly.
It is important that every child is examined regularly for refractive errors and other eye problems. Even as young as 3 or 4 years of age, children can undergo vision tests with images filled with pictures, shapes or letters. By testing each eye separately, vision loss affecting only one eye can be identified. The most common refractive errors in infants and children are myopia, astigmatism and hyperopia.
Myopia
Myopia is a refractive error, usually of genetic origin, which causes distant objects not to be seen clearly. It is the most common vision problem requiring correction in children. This condition may cause headache or eye fatigue. It usually occurs when school-age children cannot see the board clearly.
Astigmatism
It is a condition that causes the two focal points to fall in different places due to the abnormal curvature of the cornea, which leads to objects at near and far distance appearing blurred. Astigmatism can cause eye strain and can be seen in combination with myopia or hyperopia. Astigmatism can begin in childhood or adulthood. There are some symptoms such as headache, eye strain and fatigue. Children with astigmatism often rub their eyes, lose interest in school and have difficulty reading. Depending on the severity of astigmatism, glasses or contact lenses may be required.
Hyperopia
It is the blurred vision of close objects. Hypermetropia, which can occur not only in later life but also in childhood and adolescence, causes the person to be unable to focus on nearby objects and can lead to symptoms such as headache, eye strain and fatigue. In children with hyperopia, blinking, eye rubbing, lack of interest in school and difficulty in reading can be seen frequently. It is usually of genetic origin and sometimes strabismus may also occur in hyperopic children.
Untreated refractive errors are one of the most common causes of vision loss in children in Turkey and worldwide. Refractive errors that are not treated with glasses or contact lenses at an early age can result in permanent blurred vision in adulthood; this is called amblyopia. Children usually do not complain about blurred vision, especially if they only have blurred vision in one eye. Untreated refractive error often goes unnoticed, because the signs may not be obvious. Parents and carers may not notice any problems by looking at their child's eyes. The best way to diagnose refractive error is an eye examination. During the examination, drops that dilate the pupils are applied to both eyes of the child. This examination helps the ophthalmologist to assess whether there is a refractive error and how serious it is. If necessary, glasses may be prescribed to improve the child's eyesight.
What is the price of refractive errors treatment in children?
The price of refractive errors treatment in children varies depending on the underlying cause and the operation to be performed. The treatment plan to be created by our specialist ophthalmologist depending on the detailed examination result may vary from person to person.
When Does a Child Need Glasses?
Not every refractive error needs glasses. A degree of long-sightedness is considered normal for age in children and reduces as they grow. The decision is based on the size of the error, the child's age, the difference between the two eyes and whether a squint or amblyopia is present.
The measurement is taken after the pupil has been widened with drops. Without drops the measurement in children may not show the true error, because the focusing power of the eye changes the result.
Do Glasses Prevent Amblyopia?
The purpose of glasses is not only that the child sees better, but that the brain develops with a clear image. An eye whose error is left uncorrected keeps sending a blurred image, and amblyopia develops on that ground.
This is why wearing the glasses consistently matters once they are prescribed. If amblyopia has already set in, glasses alone may not be enough and additional treatment such as patching may be needed.
Check-ups and Changes in Prescription
As the child's eye grows, the prescription changes. Check-ups therefore continue at set intervals after glasses are prescribed, and the prescription is updated when needed.
If the child complains about the glasses, keeps taking them off or tilts their head to look at things, it is better to be seen without waiting for the scheduled appointment. These behaviours usually mean the prescription or the frame does not fit.
Why choose Kudret Eye İstanbul for your procedure?
Over 24 years in eye care: three eye hospitals and a general hospital, a team of specialist surgeons and technology renewed every year.
Over 24 years of experience
Hundreds of thousands of successful operations and a name trusted across generations.
The latest technology
World-leading equipment for SMILE PRO, iLASIK and trifocal lenses.
Specialist surgeons
Every treatment is performed by a surgeon who specialises in it.
Lifetime aftercare
Follow-up checks and, if ever needed, enhancement are our responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are refractive errors?
Refractive errors are visual impairments caused by the inability of the eye to focus light correctly. These include myopia (poor distance vision), hypermetropia (poor near vision) and astigmatism (blurred vision).
How can refractive errors be recognized in infants?
In infants, symptoms such as frequent eye rubbing, inability to focus on toys, less movement of one eye than the other or strabismus may indicate refractive errors.
Are refractive errors in children permanent?
Refractive errors are usually permanent, but can be treated or controlled with glasses or contact lenses.
When should babies have an eye examination?
The first eye examination in infants should generally be performed between the ages of 6 months and 1 year. This period may be earlier if there is a family history of refractive errors.
When should children start wearing glasses?
The need for children to wear glasses is determined by the doctor after a detailed eye examination. If necessary, glasses can be used even in infancy.
Do refractive errors progress?
Yes, especially myopia can progress as the child grows. For this reason, regular eye examinations should be performed and the glasses prescription should be updated.
Can surgical treatment of refractive errors be applied to children?
Surgical treatments, such as laser, are not usually applied to children. Treatment methods in children include glasses, contact lenses or sometimes orthoptic treatment (for lazy eye).
Is it possible to prevent refractive errors in children?
It is not possible to completely prevent refractive errors due to genetic causes, but early diagnosis and treatment can be provided with regular eye examinations. In addition, limiting screen time and a healthy lifestyle can be supported.
Patient Reviews
Outstanding care from start to finish. The team ensured I was fully briefed before and upon my arrival, and I felt reassured throughout the entire procedure. Jem, Dr Mehmet Ali Ozdil and Zuhal delivered exceptional service and made me feel completely at ease during my Femto‑LASIK surgery. Note, following their simple aftercare instructions is also key to recovery.
They made the process of coming to a country where I don’t speak the language and having eye surgery (frightening enough in your home town) very easy indeed. I had a wonderful interpreter with me through the entire process every day, she made everything so easy. First class facilities, first class staff and a very convenient location.
A very kind and professional medical team! The surgery was completely straightforward and was completed relatively quickly. The entire team, and especially Zuhal, my patient coordinator, was always available, incredibly helpful, and genuinely pleasant throughout the whole process. She stayed by my side from start to finish, explained everything thoroughly, and always made sure I understood what was happening. The doctor worked in a very calm and professional manner, and I never felt uncertain or uncomfortable at any point. There were three fresh meals each day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and they were all very enjoyable. The hospital rooms were also very clean and well maintained. Overall, I had a very positive experience with this hospital. I’m truly grateful to the entire team and would wholeheartedly recommend this hospital to anyone.
Hello, so I went to Optical Express in UK but they quoted me an insanely high price for LASIK Surgery. After conducting research on multiple different hospitals and eye surgery places in Turkey. I settled on Kudret Goz. Throughout the entire period they were helpful in answering all my questions and very supportive. They have very experienced doctors who perform LASIK surgery multiple times a day for 20 years plus using the latest Johnson and Johnson technology. As soon as I landed at the airport they picked me up, dropped me at the hospital where I had my own comfortable room. They provided breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the morning they conducted tests to check my vision and if I’m feasible for the surgery, the same evening the surgery happened. I was nervous but It lasted 5 - 10 minutes and rested in my room that evening taking eye drops and disinfect eye drops every hour. The next day I woke up and my vision had become incredibly better, with every passing hour it got better and better. Within 24 hours my vision was incredibly clear and I was amazed. Thank you for operating the surgery and truly providing a life changing experience. For the price and quality of service Kudret Goz is unrivalled.
I have just returned from having Lens transplantation at Kudret Eye Hospital Istanbul. I was a lone traveller who was terrified at the prospect of eye surgery even having done my research. I have to say ALL the staff at Kudret were absolutely amazing. From 1st contacting them the communication was excellent no question was too much and always received a very prompt response. I was met at the airport in the middle of the night and taken straight to the hospital, was shown to my room. I felt very safe. I had numerous test the following day and then a consultation with the Doctor who advised me of my best implants. There was always someone with me who was able to translate anything said. I had my 1st op that afternoon again I felt safe and very confident with the professionalism of all the staff. Surgery took approximately 20 mins. I had no pain and the next day was able to see near intermediate and distance although not 100% but without glasses. After further checks I then went in for my second surgery. Again all went smoothly. The following day sight had improved even more in my 1st eye and then on removal of my eye patch my 2nd eye sight was great. I am thrilled to be glasses free and my vision improves every day. I was told it can take between 1 -3 weeks for the full result. I was given eye drops for home and full care instructions. I am very grateful to all those involved in my journey Thank you.
I visited OE in the UK, which quoted £5,500 for a LASIK surgery on both my eyes. As a result, I subsequently contacted Kudret Goz Istanbul via WhatsApp, and I must say I was very impressed by the level and quality of service. The initial contact person, Cem, was very helpful and explained the process, cost (much more reasonable than the UK clinic), and aftercare procedures very clearly. The doctor that I was assigned was Dr Nail Sönmez, who was very experienced and conducted a very effective iLASIK surgery, which only lasted about 10-15 minutes, and led to a significant improvement in my vision. He was also very transparent about the associated risks involved after the operation and advised how those could be mitigated after the surgery. Although the doctor and Cem spoke English, I was also assigned a translator, Zuhal, who was very friendly and helped me communicate with other hospital staff when needed. Therefore, I highly recommend Kudret Goz Istanbul for any UK resident seeking high-quality LASIK eye surgery at an affordable price.
My wife and I both had lens replacement here due to both having cataracts. I have to say from start to finish the whole experience was excellent. Careing helpful staff took care of all our needs and queries. Experienced expert surgeon did the operations on both eyes which only takes around 10 to 15 minutes and is completely painless. Excellent aftercare after the operations. Excellent value especially compared to the UK. For the two of us we paid plot less than one operation would cost in the UK. In particular I would like to thank Gem and Zuhan, both of whom speak English, for their care and attention also i would like to thank Dr Mehmet for his expertise. We have been home now for a month or so and our vision just keeps getting better and better as explained. I have no hesitation in recommding this excellent hospital. Thanks for our new eyes.
My sister and I recently traveled from London to Istanbul for laser eye operations, and I cannot rave enough about the exceptional care we received at Kudret Göz. Despite arriving at 4:30 AM, our pre-booked transport was seamlessly ready, whisking us directly to the hospital. From the moment we stepped through the doors, the warm welcome and hospitality made us feel instantly at ease. We were promptly shown to our rooms, and the staff's genuine kindness and attentiveness completely calmed any pre-operation jitters. They truly went above and beyond to ensure we felt relaxed and comfortable throughout the entire process. Beyond the outstanding medical care, the hospital's location is a huge bonus. Theres a massive mall called the Nautilus less than a 5 minute walk away from the hospital. It has amazing food spots along with some familiar ones. Overall, I'm beyond delighted with my experience at Kudret Göz. I was truly astounded by the immense effort they put in to ensure such a seamless and positive visit, all at an incredibly fair price!!
As someone who doesn't write reviews, I feel that this is an important opportunity to reach out to others. I was full of doubts , insecurity and skepticism about this procedure. I bought into all the negatives and downsides of lens replacement surgery , Whilst doing my research . After speaking to Jem , who put no pressure on me to sell me this . I trusted and respected him . There are many places in Turkey ( Medical tourism). , who are pushy , and run clinics offering , Hair , teeth , eyes ect. Kudret goz is a eye hospital that specializes in just eyes. I did arrive nervous, But saw how professional they are. The staff were super and so friendly, From the cleaners , security, receptionists and doctors . The place was spotless and I was comfortable, even 3 hospital meals per day. I'm amazed that my results are immediate. I can see perfectly 20/20 vision both eyes . No halos . Minimal irritation in eyes after op for an hour or 2. I'm amazed at how easy it is . I flew back to Bristol and drove back to South wales late at night . And my eyes at night were spot on . I'm delighted to not be wearing glasses anymore. Which Is given me freedom and a new confidence. I ride motorbikes and can't wait to get out on the bike 🏍. Looking forward to snooker , swimming and playing football. No glasses . My advice would be not to read to much ( scare mongering tactics) i would recommend this to everyone , family , friends and anyone who wants to listen . Best couple of grand I've ever spent . Update . 1 month on perfect vision . No problems.
Easy process to book appointment, clear communication throughout. The hospital I clean and well-equipped. The staff friendly and helpful. A translator on hand from the moment I arrived until I left The preparation and tests pror to the Yag laser procedure, faultless. Clear information given on each part if the process. The procedure was painless, and no ill effects and I could see clearly about 30 minutes after the procedure. I cannot recommend them enough .
I’m very happy I chose to have my LASIK procedure done at Kudret Göz in Istanbul. From the beginning, the communication was excellent. They speak very good English and were quick to respond to all my questions via text, which made the entire process much easier. On the day of the operation, everything moved efficiently and smoothly. I felt completely comfortable during each test and step of the procedure. The doctor also spoke excellent English and took the time to reassure me with all my questions. The rest of the staff were incredibly helpful and professional, and the clinic itself was very clean and well-organized. I would highly recommend Kudret Göz to anyone considering LASIK.
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References
- 1.Eye tests for children · NHS
- 2.Farsightedness: What Is Hyperopia? · AAO
- 3.Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) · NEI