Myopia Control Consultations & Treatments
Myopia (nearsightedness) is a refractive error that occurs when the eyeball is too long in relation to its curvature, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. Individuals with myopia have trouble seeing distant objects clearly.
Dr. O has a special interest in myopia control and performs specialized diagnostic tests to evaluate candidacy for different treatment options. Children wearing glasses or contact lenses to clear distance vision may benefit from a myopia control consultation.
Why Does Myopia Matter?
The prevalence of myopia has increased from 25% to 42% in recent decades and is estimated to affect 50% of the world population by 2050. While there is a genetic component, data indicates the increase of myopia may be linked to children spending less time outside and more time in front of digital devices.
Myopia worsens over time, resulting in the need for thicker corrective lenses; however, the primary concern is that myopia increases the risk of eye problems like retinal detachments, cataracts, glaucoma and macular diseases.
What to Expect From Your Consultation
A myopia control consultation includes:
- Corneal topography
- Cycloplegic refraction
- Anterior segment examination
- Familial history and risk assessment
- In-depth explanation of treatment options
The length of a myopia control consultation varies depending on each patient and their needs. However, individuals should expect approximately 60 minutes and be accompanied by all parents/guardians.
Treatment Options
Recent studies from around the world have shown there are ways to slow the progression of myopia in children by up to 50%. A myopia control consultation at Modern Eyes Optometry will determine the best treatment option for your child(ren), and our team will work with you through the process.
MiSight Contact Lenses
These soft contacts are a daily disposable lens making them a convenient and hygienic option for children. They have a multifocal design to create peripheral defocus which helps slow the rate of axial growth of the eye.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Contact Lenses
These customized rigid contacts are worn while sleeping and allow children the option to see clearly during the day without wearing contact lenses or glasses. They work by temporarily reshaping the cornea to correct vision while also creating peripheral defocus to slow the rate of axial growth of the eye.
Atropine
Diluted atropine is an eyedrop used once per day to modify the focusing system within the eye. Although the mechanism of action to control myopia is not fully understood, studies repeatably show its effectiveness and safety. This may be an alternative treatment option if MiSight or Ortho-K contact lenses are not suitable.
Additional Benefits of Myopia Control
Treating myopia not only decreases the risk of eye problems associated with myopia, but also allows many children to be free of glasses, which has been proven to increase self-esteem. Treatment is also beneficial for those individuals who are active or wanting to be active in sports.