MYOPIA MANAGEMENT

What is Myopia?

Myopia, commonly called nearsightedness, is a condition where distant objects appear blurry while near vision remains clear. It typically begins in childhood and often progresses as the eyes continue to grow. Children with myopia may squint to see the
board at school, sit very close to books or screens, or complain of headaches and eye strain.

While glasses and standard contact lenses correct blurry vision, they do not slow the progression of myopia. As myopia increases, the eye becomes longer than normal, which raises the lifetime risk of serious eye conditions such as retinal detachment,
glaucoma, myopic macular degeneration, and early cataracts.
 

Why Myopia Progression Matters

Myopia is not just about needing stronger glasses each year. Higher levels of myopia are associated with greater risk of sight‑threatening eye disease later in life. The goal of modern myopia care is to slow how quickly myopia worsens during childhood,
when progression is fastest.

Early intervention— even for mild myopia— has been shown to offer the greatest long‑term benefit.
 

What Is Myopia Management?

Myopia management (also called myopia control) refers to evidence‑based treatments designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness, not simply correct vision. This is a proactive, medical approach focused on protecting long‑term eye health.

At Aspects Eyecare, myopia management is provided as a structured treatment program tailored to your child’s age, prescription, eye health, progression rate, and lifestyle.
 

Myopia Management Treatment Options

Treatment recommendations are individualized following a comprehensive eye examination.

 

• Specialized Soft Daily Contact Lenses

These advanced contact lenses are designed with optics that help reduce signals that drive eye growth while providing clear, comfortable vision throughout the day. They are worn during waking hours and replaced daily.

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• FDA‑Approved Overnight Lenses (Orthokeratology / Ortho‑K)

Ortho‑K lenses are custom‑designed rigid lenses worn only while sleeping. They gently reshape the cornea overnight, allowing clear vision during the day without glasses or contacts. Ortho‑K has also been shown to slow myopia progression and axial eye growth when properly prescribed and monitored.

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• Myopia‑Control Spectacle Lenses

For children who are not ready for contact lenses, specialized spectacle lenses may be recommended. These lenses are designed to reduce peripheral defocus signals that contribute to myopia progression.

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• Low‑Dose Atropine Eye Drops

Low‑dose atropine eye drops are a prescription treatment used nightly to help slow myopia progression and eye growth. At low concentrations, atropine is generally well tolerated and does not significantly interfere with near vision or daily activities.

 

Atropine may be used: - As a stand‑alone treatment in younger children - For children not ready for contact lenses - In combination with contact lens or spectacle‑based myopia management for enhanced control.

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• Lifestyle & Visual Habit Guidance

In addition to optical or medical treatment, we provide guidance on: - Screen time and near‑work breaks - Reading distance and posture - Increasing outdoor activity. These strategies support overall eye health and treatment success.

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What to Expect During the Myopia Management Process

Comprehensive Eye Examination

Your child’s evaluation includes: - Vision testing - Eye health assessment - Dilation when appropriate - Advanced measurements to track eye growth and prescription changes over time.

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Customized Treatment Plan

We review all appropriate treatment options, expected outcomes, and the level of commitment required for success.

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Ongoing Monitoring

Myopia management requires regular follow‑up visits to monitor progression, ensure treatment effectiveness, and make adjustments when needed.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

How young can a child start myopia management?

Myopia management can begin as soon as myopia is detected. Some children may start as young as 5–6 years old, depending on maturity, prescription, and progression rate. Earlier treatment generally provides greater long‑term benefit.

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Is myopia management safe?

Yes. The treatments we recommend are evidence‑based and widely used worldwide. When properly prescribed and monitored, myopia management options—including contact lenses and low‑dose atropine—are considered safe. Regular follow‑up visits are essential to ensure eye health and treatment success.

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Will my child feel discomfort?

Most children adapt quickly. Some may experience a short adjustment period, particularly with contact lenses or Ortho‑K. Any pain, redness, light sensitivity, or vision changes should be reported immediately.

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What is atropine rebound? Will my child’s prescription worsen if we stop?

“Rebound” refers to a potential increase in myopia progression after stopping atropine, particularly if treatment is discontinued abruptly or at higher doses. This risk is minimized by: - Using low‑dose atropine - Gradually tapering treatment when appropriate - Monitoring progression closely

We carefully guide families through initiation, continuation, and eventual discontinuation when appropriate.

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How long does myopia management last?

Treatment typically continues throughout the years when myopia is actively progressing—often until the mid‑ to late‑teen years. The duration depends on individual progression patterns and response to treatment.

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Why is there a fee for myopia management?

Myopia management is a medical treatment program, not routine vision correction. Fees reflect: - Advanced diagnostic testing and measurements - Specialty lens fitting and customization - Ongoing monitoring and medical decision‑making - Professional expertise and time over multiple visits. This is similar to other specialty medical care programs that require ongoing management.

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Will my vision plan or insurance cover myopia management?

Most vision and medical insurance plans do not cover myopia management services or specialty lenses, including Ortho‑K and atropine therapy. Some plans may contribute toward: - Routine eye exams - Standard glasses or contact lens allowances

Our team will review fees and coverage details with you before treatment begins.

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What happens if we don’t do myopia management?

Without myopia management, many children experience continued progression, often requiring stronger prescriptions each year. Higher levels of myopia are associated with increased risk of serious eye disease later in life.

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How do we get started?

If your child has myopia or a history of prescription changes, scheduling a myopia management evaluation is the first step. We will determine eligibility, discuss options, and design a personalized plan for your child.

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Schedule a Myopia Management Evaluating Today!

Protecting your child’s vision now can make a meaningful difference for their future eye health.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​