Unveiling the Complex Network Behind Sight
Sight may begin with the eyes, but it’s the brain that makes sense of what we see. From directing the eyes to focus on an object to interpreting and storing visual information, the brain plays an essential role in vision. However, this intricate process often goes unnoticed.
Gary Rodney, Master of Optometry, Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist, and Fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (FIAOMC), explains: “Vision is much more than just seeing clearly. It’s a dynamic process involving different areas of the brain working together. Understanding this network helps us appreciate the complexity of sight and how Smart Vision behavioural optometry addresses it.”
Jacqueline Gattegno, principal senior optometrist at Eyes InDesign Smart Vision Optometry Bondi, adds, “It’s not just about how well you see, but also how efficiently your brain and eyes work together. This interplay is crucial for everyday tasks, from recognising faces to navigating spaces.”
The Brain’s Role in Vision
The journey of sight begins with a decision: to look at something. At this moment, the brain stem, specifically the “pons,” signals the eyes to focus, initiating the visual process.
Occipital Lobe: The Image Creator
Visual data first reaches the occipital lobe, located at the back of the brain. This lobe constructs an image based on the data transmitted from the eyes. “Damage to the occipital lobe can result in visual disturbances or even blindness,” explains Rodney. “This highlights its vital role in forming the foundation of sight.”
Parietal Lobe: Depth and Direction
Once an image is formed, the parietal lobe processes visuospatial information, such as depth and direction. This helps us coordinate movements like reaching for an object. “Imagine trying to grab a cup without knowing how far away it is or where it’s positioned relative to your hand,” says Gattegno. “The parietal lobe ensures such actions are seamless.”
Temporal Lobe: Recognition and Memory
Recognition happens in the temporal lobe. This part of the brain matches visual data with memories, enabling us to identify objects and people. “Whether it’s recognising a friend in a crowd or recalling what car keys look like, the temporal lobe links sight with memory,” Rodney notes.
Frontal Lobe: Attention and Focus
Recent studies show that the frontal lobe also contributes to vision. “This lobe helps us focus on specific objects amid visual clutter,” says Gattegno. “For example, it allows us to spot car keys on a cluttered table by prioritising relevant information.”
The Neural Network: Lightning-Fast Communication
The retina, lined with light-sensitive rod and cone cells, captures light and sends signals through the optic nerve to the occipital lobe. But forming an image is just the start. The brain categorises the image, linking it with memories or storing it as new information.
“This entire process happens in milliseconds,” explains Rodney. “The brain prioritises urgent visual information, such as a rapidly approaching object, ensuring we respond in time to protect ourselves.”
Gattegno adds, “The speed and efficiency of this neural network are extraordinary, underscoring the complexity of vision.”
Smart Vision Optometry: Seeing Beyond the Eyes
Given the brain’s integral role in vision, Smart Vision optometry goes beyond testing eyesight. It evaluates visual skills such as tracking, depth perception, and focus, addressing challenges that affect both the eyes and the brain.
“There’s a lot more to vision than just seeing and unfortunately most eyetests just concentrate on sight alone” says Rodney. “Smart Vision optometrists assess how the brain and eyes work together. When visual skills are underdeveloped, therapies can help strengthen them, improving overall vision and quality of life.”
Gattegno highlights the impact of this approach: “We’ve seen children and adults transform their ability to navigate the world simply by addressing underlying visual skill deficiencies. It’s about enhancing how people see and interact with their environment.”
Contact Smart Vision Optometry for Holistic Vision Care
At Smart Vision Optometry, our optometrists take a comprehensive approach to vision, addressing not only how well you see but also how effectively your eyes and brain work together.
For more information on vision therapy and its benefits, visit Smart Vision Optometry’s website. To learn about myopia prevention and treatment, visit Myopia Prevention or explore Orthokeratology in Sydney.
Book an appointment for a thorough functional vision assessment, or call the Bondi clinic on (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic on (02) 9969 1600.Experience the difference a holistic approach to vision care can make. Contact Smart Vision Optometry today to see the world in a new way.
