Myopia therapy is a proactive, evidence-based approach designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children and teenagers, reducing the risk of future sight-threatening eye diseases. Unlike standard glasses that only correct vision, these therapies—including specialized spectacle lenses, contact lenses, and eye drops —to actively reduce eye growth.
Myopia therapy is distinct from standard eyeglass or contact lens correction. It aims to manage the underlying cause of myopia (axial elongation of the eye) rather than just treating the symptom (blurry distance vision).
The goal of myopia therapy is to minimize the total power of a patient’s prescription, reduce the rate of axial (eye) elongation, and lower long-term risks of retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration. It is important to know that it does not stop myopia progression but can significantly slow down the rate of progression.
Treatment Types
Specialty Contact Lenses
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K), hard contact lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea causing peripheral defocus that lasts during the day.
Soft contact lenses that provide optics with peripheral defocus management, these lenses are worn during the day and removed at night.
Specialty Glasses
Stellest Lenses: prescription eyeglasses where the lenses create peripheral defocus using 11 rings of tiny lenslets that surround a clear central zone. These glasses are worn during the day, a minimum of 10 hours.
Eye Drops
Atropine, a low-dose (0.01%–0.05%) is applied to the eyes at night before bedtime. Consistent use of this medication has been shown to be effective in inhibiting eye growth.
Myopia therapy works best with early intervention and regular monitoring to ensure proper intervention and desired outcomes are achieved. Regular monitoring occurs between every 3 to 6 months with comprehensive patient care to have the highest chance to prevent high myopia.