Myopia Control

Myopia (also called near-sightedness) typically presents with symptoms of blurry distance vision.  It happens when the eye grows too long.  This results in objects coming into focus in front of the eye  rather than on the back surface of the eye.

 What is Myopia Control?
 Myopia Control describes newer treatments used to slow the progression (increase) in myopia over time compared to conventional therapy. 
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 Why Myopia Control?
 Elevated rates of myopia progression in younger patients are not harmless as the growth pattern is likely to result in a higher prescription.  People who become highly nearsighted have increased risk of myopic macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma & retinal holes/ detachments.
 
Myopia Control is a newer branch of preventative health care.  It aims to reduce the progression of myopia during the developmental years and thus reduce eye medical risks which can be associated with higher levels of myopia.
 
By slowing the progression of myopia, fewer changes in prescriptions may be needed- and when vision eventually stabilizes, patients may be less dependent on thick lenses to help them see!
 
 Methods of Myopia Control
 
* Atropine
Recent studies have shown that low dose atropine (0.01%- 0.05%) eye drops can reduce the rate of myopia progression by up to 50%.  Because low dose atropine is not commercially available, it is formulated by compounding pharmacies.

* MiSight Contact Lenses
MiSight is the first soft contact lens FDA approved for myopia control.
They are worn during waking hours.  As a disposable lens, these are replaced every day.  This hygienic regime can reduce the occurrence of eye infections & symptoms of ocular allergies.   
 
* Multifocal Contact Lenses
These soft contact lenses may be an alternative for some patients who are not candidates for MiSight lenses.
 
* Orthokeratology (Corneal Refractive Therapy or overnight lenses)
Specialized contact lenses are worn each night while you sleep.  Overnight, these lenses gently reshape the window to your eye called the cornea.  This reshaping allows for clear unaided vision during the day while helping slow progression at night.
 
* ​Combination Therapy
Combining orthokeratology with atropine can provide greater control of myopia progression than either treatment alone.