A sharp increase in refractive errors in Bengaluru over the past decade, linked to screen time and reduced outdoor activity

The Current Situation of Refractive Errors in Bengaluru

According to records in Karnataka, the prevalence of myopia and astigmatism has risen sharply, especially among children aged 8–15 and young adults aged 20–35.
This is a sensitive stage in visual development, easily affected by an unbalanced lifestyle between study, work, and eye care. Experts warn that without timely screening and intervention, children may face amblyopia (lazy eye), while adults are prone to visual fatigue, prolonged eye strain, and reduced academic or work performance.

Raising awareness about regular eye exams, early detection of refractive errors, and correct treatment methods is the key to reducing complications and maintaining long-term quality of life.
In this picture, advanced refractive treatment technology plays an important role.

Contoura Vision – Topography-Guided Corneal Mapping Solution

Contoura Vision technology accurately treats refractive errors.

To meet the growing treatment demand, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital has introduced the Wavelight® EX500 Contoura Excimer Laser in Bengaluru, a corneal topography-guided LASIK system that allows highly personalized treatment.

Unlike standard LASIK, Contoura Vision maps up to 22,000 unique points on the cornea to precisely describe its microstructure.
This approach not only corrects myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism but also addresses microscopic corneal irregularities – factors that glasses, contact lenses, or traditional LASIK may overlook.
As a result, the achieved vision tends to be sharper and more natural.

Dr Amod Nayak, Head of Clinical Services at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, shared:

“We are witnessing a rapid increase in myopia and astigmatism, particularly in children and young adults. Contoura Vision not only corrects refractive errors but also addresses micro-irregularities on the cornea, providing patients with more natural and sharper vision.”

Beyond accuracy, Contoura Vision also aims for a better postoperative experience: reduced risk of glare and halos, improved vision in low light, and shorter recovery time.

Key Advantages: Personalization, Fast Recovery, Superior Visual Quality

• Personalized treatment: Each eye is mapped in detail like a “fingerprint,” optimizing the laser plan to the corneal structure of each patient.
• Correction of higher-order aberrations (HOAs): Focuses on improving micro-irregularities for clearer and more natural images.
• Reduced glare and halos: Minimizes uncomfortable visual effects, supporting safer night driving and working in low light.
• Fast recovery: Patients can usually return to work within 48–72 hours after surgery.
• Less dependence on glasses: Increases comfort, convenience, and productivity in study and work.

Dr Sanjana Vatsa, Corneal and Refractive Surgeon at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, emphasized:
“For many patients, refractive surgery is no longer just a cosmetic choice; it’s about comfort, productivity, and long-term eye health. This device sets a new benchmark for precision and safety in Bengaluru, allowing patients to return to work within 48–72 hours.”

Contoura technology is described as “eye measurement” with uniqueness similar to a fingerprint, then customizing the laser shot according to that “map” to achieve precise refractive outcomes.

Implementation Capacity and Patient Trust

Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospitals – Revolutionizing eye care since 1957

Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital’s network in Karnataka currently operates 5 refractive lasers, more than 65 devices across India, and 13 facilities in Bengaluru. The hospital performs approximately 2,500–3,000 refractive surgeries per month, reflecting both patient trust and accumulated clinical expertise.

This expansion of capacity is not an “experiment” but an extension of a well-established clinical practice, aiming at safety standards and high personalization, helping many age groups reduce dependence on glasses and improve quality of life.

Early Screening to Prevent Long-Term Complications

Experts emphasize the importance of early screening and timely treatment of refractive errors to prevent complications such as amblyopia in children, eye strain, and reduced productivity in adults.
In the context of screen-heavy lifestyles, maintaining regular eye check-ups is essential for early intervention, especially for children and young adults aged 20–35.

Conclusion

The rapid increase of myopia and astigmatism in Bengaluru is a clear warning about the impact of modern lifestyle on vision.
With the presence of Contoura Vision (Wavelight® EX500) at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, the people of Bengaluru now have an additional treatment option that is precise, personalized, and fast-recovering, helping reduce dependence on glasses, enhance academic and work performance, and improve long-term quality of life.