An annual comprehensive eye exam at Unionville Optometry is your best defense against vision loss, and is an important part of maintaining your overall health.
Myopia Control Treatment Markham Ontario
Slowing The Progression Of Nearsightedness
What Is Myopia Control?
Myopia control is the process of slowing down the progression of myopia (nearsightedness) particularly among children and teenagers. If your child is nearsighted you may have noticed that with each annual visit to the eye doctor they need a stronger prescription.
You may wonder if there is anything you can do to stop this progression. The answer is yes, your child’s optometrist can help slow the progression of myopia with different treatment options!
Call our Markham optometrists at 905-477-4488 or send us an email to learn more. We offer professional eye care services to patients of all ages!
Benefits of Myopia Control
The obvious benefit is that you can slow down the progression of nearsightedness. Over time, your child will be left with decreased myopia/nearsightedness and therefore decreased likelihood of ocular pathology associated with myopia, such as:
- Retinal complications and disease
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
Myopia Control Treatment Options
There are four popular types of myopia control treatment options for children all supported by peer-reviewed studies:
1. Overnight GP Lenses Orthokeratology (Ortho-K Or OK Lenses)
Overnight orthokeratology (also called corneal reshaping lenses, corneal refractive therapy, vision shaping treatment) are gas permeable contact lenses worn only at night to help temporarily correct nearsightedness. Throughout the night Ortho-k lenses (OK lenses) work to gently reshape the cornea. Then, when the child wakes up, he or she can take out the ortho-k lenses and have clear vision throughout the day, without having to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses.
For more information on fitting contact lenses, visit our contact lenses page.
2. Soft Multifocal Contact Lenses
Multifocal soft contact lenses have emerged as a popular treatment option for myopia progression. There are daily and monthly options available depending on your child’s prescription. Children with higher levels of refractive error that make it difficult to properly fit orthokeratology lenses are good candidates for multifocal contact lenses.
3. Atropine Eye Drops
Low dose Atropine eye drops have been shown to decrease the rate of nearsightedness. They can be used as a solo treatment and in conjunction with one of the other treatments.
4. Multifocal Eyeglasses
Children can also wear multifocal eyeglasses to help slow the progression of nearsightedness.
Myopia Control Lenses FAQs
What is myopia control, and why is it important?
Myopia control involves strategies to slow the progression of nearsightedness, particularly in children and teenagers. Managing myopia early can reduce the risk of developing serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal complications, glaucoma, and cataracts.
Treatment Options
At what age should myopia control begin?
Initiating myopia control during childhood, especially between ages 6 and 12, is most effective. Early intervention can significantly slow progression and reduce long-term vision risks.
How do overnight ortho-k lenses work?
Orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses are rigid gas-permeable contacts worn overnight to reshape the cornea. Upon removal in the morning, they provide clear daytime vision without the need for glasses or daytime contacts.
Are ortho-k lenses suitable for all children?
Ortho-k lenses are ideal for children with moderate to high myopia and those who engage in sports or activities where glasses or daytime contacts might be inconvenient. However, suitability depends on individual eye health and lifestyle, assessed by an eye care professional.
What are multifocal soft contact lenses, and how do they help?
Multifocal soft contact lenses feature multiple zones with varying powers to correct vision at different distances. These lenses help slow myopia progression by reducing peripheral retinal defocus, a key factor in eye elongation.
Can multifocal eyeglasses be used for myopia control?
Yes, multifocal eyeglasses can aid in managing myopia progression. They provide clear vision at various distances and help alleviate eye strain, though they may be less effective than contact lens options in slowing myopia progression.
What role do atropine eye drops play in myopia control?
Low-dose atropine eye drops are used to slow myopia progression. They can be effective alone or combined with other treatments like ortho-k lenses or multifocal contacts.
Effectiveness & Safety
How effective are ortho-k lenses in controlling myopia?
Studies indicate that ortho-k lenses can reduce myopia progression by approximately 50% to 60%, making them one of the most effective non-surgical treatments available.
Are there any risks associated with myopia control treatments?
While generally safe, potential risks include lens discomfort, dryness, or infection. Regular follow-ups with our optometrist can ensure proper lens fit and eye health monitoring.
Cost & Accessibility
Are myopia control treatments covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. It's advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand benefits related to myopia control treatments like ortho-k lenses, multifocal contacts, and atropine eye drops.
Do myopia control treatments require frequent follow-up visits?
Yes, initial fitting and regular follow-ups are essential to monitor eye health and ensure the effectiveness of the myopia control treatment. The frequency of visits depends on the specific treatment and individual needs.
Lifestyle & Long-Term Considerations
How do myopia control treatments impact a child's daily activities?
Treatments like ortho-k lenses allow children to engage in sports and other activities without the need for glasses or daytime contacts, promoting an active lifestyle.
Can myopia control treatments be used in combination?
Yes, combining treatments such as atropine eye drops with ortho-k lenses or multifocal contacts can enhance effectiveness in slowing myopia progression.
Will myopia control treatments stop myopia from progressing entirely?
While myopia control treatments significantly slow progression, they may not halt myopia entirely. Ongoing monitoring and adjustments are necessary to manage eye health effectively.
How can parents support their child during myopia control treatment?
Parents can encourage adherence to prescribed treatments, ensure regular eye exams, and promote outdoor activities to support overall eye health and myopia management.
Our Unionville Optometry Eye Doctors Are Also Members Of:
Myopia Control Clinic At Unionville Optometry
If you are concerned about the progression of your child’s nearsightedness please speak with our eye specialists at Unionville Optometry in Markham Ontario.
Our specialists would be happy to evaluate your child’s vision and eye health and recommend the proper eye care products or a customized myopia control treatment plan.
To learn more, call our Markham Optometry clinic at 905-477-4488 or send us an email.