Myopia Management
Myopia Control for Children
Evidence-based solutions to slow the progression of nearsightedness.
Myopia is the medical term for nearsightedness. While there is no “cure” for it, it is possible to slow down its progression for children. Early action matters because higher myopia increases lifetime risk of eye disease.
The most popular intervention for myopia is are Myopia Control Glasses and Myopia Control Contact Lenses.
- Myopia Control Glasses use special lens designs that slow the progression of myopia by 30-60%, depending on when the myopia was detected. This can be a great option for younger children who are not ready for contact lenses.
- Myopia Control Contact Lenses are soft multi-focal lenses that reduce progression by 40-60%, depending on when the myopia was detected.
In addition, lifestyle strategies can be implemented.
- Spending time outdoors is strongly associated with reduced myopia onset and slower progression.
- Minimizing “screen time”.
- Taking eye “breaks” regularly – every 20 minutes, look away the book or screen, look further away for 20 seconds.
Dr. Samantha Chan has extensive experience with evaluating children for Myopia control lenses. It is important for your child to have an eye examination annually so that she can track prescription changes to determine if they are a candidate for this intervention.