Myopia control, supported by robust clinical research, offers effective ways to slow children's prescription progression

Myopia Control Options

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision problem where distant objects appear blurry. Managing its progression is crucial, particularly in children and young adults. Various myopia control options are available, each designed to slow down the elongation of the eyeball, which is the primary cause of myopia progression. Here are the main options:

1. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses

Ortho-K lenses are specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight. They temporarily reshape the cornea, providing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. By flattening the central cornea, these lenses reduce the eye's focusing power, slowing the progression of myopia

2. Multifocal Contact Lenses

Multifocal contact lenses have multiple prescription zones to correct vision at varying distances. The design helps to reduce the eye's tendency to elongate, which is the primary cause of myopia progression. These lenses can be worn during the day and are suitable for both children and adults.

3. Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops are used to dilate the pupil and temporarily paralyze accommodation (focusing). Atropine is believed to slow myopia progression by reducing the eye's focusing efforts. This treatment is often used in combination with other myopia control methods

4. Multifocal Spectacle Lenses

Multifocal or progressive spectacle lenses work similarly to multifocal contact lenses. They provide clear vision at multiple distances, thereby reducing eye strain and slowing the progression of myopia. These glasses are especially beneficial for children who may find contact lenses difficult to manage

5. Peripheral Defocus Contact Lenses

These contact lenses are designed to create a peripheral defocus, meaning they focus light slightly in front of the retina in the peripheral vision. This design helps to slow the elongation of the eyeball, thereby controlling the progression of myopia

6. Bifocal Spectacle Lenses

Bifocal lenses have two distinct optical powers for distance and near vision. By reducing the effort required for near tasks, these lenses help in managing myopia progression in children, especially those with a significant amount of near work

7. Environmental and Lifestyle Changes

Increasing outdoor activities and reducing prolonged near work, such as reading or screen time, are also effective strategies. Natural light exposure and engaging in outdoor activities have been shown to reduce the risk of myopia progression.

How Myopia Control Works

Mechanism of Action:

• Corneal Reshaping (Ortho-K): Temporarily reshapes the cornea to reduce myopia during the day.

• Optical Defocus (Multifocal and Peripheral Defocus Lenses): Alters light focus on the retina to reduce elongation signals.

• Reduced Accommodation (Atropine): Decreases focusing effort, slowing eye growth.

• Behavioral Modification: Encourages activities that reduce eye strain and promote healthy eye growth.

Customization and Monitoring:

• Treatments are tailored to individual needs based on age, lifestyle, and degree of myopia.

• Regular eye exams are crucial to monitor effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.

By combining these methods, patients can effectively manage myopia progression, reducing the risk of severe nearsightedness and associated complications like retinal detachment or glaucoma. Visit VISIONOPOLiS to explore personalized myopia control solutions with guidance from our expert team, ensuring optimal eye health and visual performance.