Myopia Management

What is myopia?

Myopia is the medical term for nearsightedness—a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry. Individuals with myopia typically require corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses) to achieve clear vision for everyday activities.

What is myopia progression?

Myopia progression refers to the worsening of nearsightedness, which commonly occurs in children between the ages of 6 and 18. As myopia progresses, stronger corrective lens prescriptions are needed. Additionally, higher levels of myopia are associated with an increased risk of serious eye conditions, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic maculopathy.

What is myopia management?

Also known as myopia control, myopia management involves specialized methods designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. The goal is to reduce the final degree of myopia a child develops, which may lower the long-term risk of vision complications.

It’s important to note that myopia management does not stop progression completely or reverse existing nearsightedness.

How does myopia management work?

Current research supports three primary methods for slowing myopia progression:

Low-dose atropine

A daily medicated eye drop is instilled in each eye. Although atropine is not FDA-approved specifically for myopia control (an off-label use), multiple studies have shown its effectiveness. Corrective lenses are still needed for clear vision.

Daily-wear multifocal soft contact lenses

These lenses are worn during the day and provide both vision correction and myopia control. This method is FDA-approved for myopia management.

Overnight orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses

These specially designed lenses are worn while sleeping. They temporarily reshape the cornea overnight, providing clear vision during the day without lenses. Like atropine, myopia control with Ortho-K is considered an off-label use, though supported by research.

Which myopia management method is right for me or my child?

Determining candidacy for myopia management requires advanced testing that goes beyond a standard eye exam. We perform specialized measurements of the eye and focusing system using state-of-the-art equipment. A dedicated consultation is needed to review these results and discuss personalized treatment options.

What does myopia management involve?

After the initial consultation and treatment plan, ongoing follow-up care is essential. Most patients have at least three follow-up visits after starting treatment to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.

Ready to schedule?

To schedule a myopia management consultation, call 614-292-2020, option 1, then option 2.

You may also request an appointment online through our Request an Appointment page.