Top Myopia Control Treatments: Which Option Is Best for You or Your Child?

Top Myopia Control Treatments: Which Option Is Best for You or Your Child?

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry, while nearby objects remain clear. This condition occurs when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. While myopia can start in childhood and progress over time, the good news is that myopia control treatments can help slow its progression, reducing the risk of more severe vision problems later in life.

Why Is Myopia Control Important?

Managing myopia is essential, particularly for children, because progressive myopia can lead to a greater risk of eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment as they age. By taking steps to control myopia early, we can help protect long-term eye health, improve quality of life, and reduce the need for stronger prescription glasses or contact lenses.

Top Myopia Control Treatments

There are several effective treatments available to slow down myopia progression. At Texas State Optical, we offer a variety of options tailored to each individual’s needs.

1. MiSight® Contact Lenses

MiSight® contact lenses are specially designed soft lenses for children, proven to slow the progression of myopia. They are worn during the day and correct vision while simultaneously working to control the elongation of the eye that causes myopia. MiSight lenses are an excellent option for active children who prefer contact lenses over glasses.

Benefits of MiSight® Contact Lenses:

•          Clinically proven to slow myopia progression

•          Comfortable and easy to wear

•          Dual-focus design for vision correction and myopia control

•          Suitable for children as young as 8 years old

2. Atropine Eye Drops

Atropine eye drops are a low-dose prescription option that has been shown to reduce the progression of myopia in children. These drops are typically administered at bedtime and work by temporarily relaxing the eye’s focusing mechanism, which helps slow down the elongation of the eyeball.

Benefits of Atropine Drops:

•          Non-invasive and easy to use

•          Safe for long-term use with minimal side effects

•          Can be combined with other myopia control methods

3. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses

Ortho-K, or orthokeratology, involves wearing specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea, temporarily correcting vision so that no glasses or contacts are needed during the day. Ortho-K lenses also help slow the progression of myopia by controlling the eye’s growth.

Benefits of Ortho-K:

•          Clear vision without the need for glasses or contacts during the day

•          Safe for children and adults

•          Effective in slowing myopia progression

•          Non-surgical and reversible

Which Myopia Control Treatment Is Best?

The best myopia control treatment depends on individual needs, lifestyle, and eye health. For some children, MiSight® contact lenses may be the most comfortable and effective solution, while others may benefit more from the convenience of atropine drops or the freedom of Ortho-K lenses. At Texas State Optical, our experienced optometrists can assess your or your child's vision and recommend the most suitable treatment based on a comprehensive eye exam.

Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam with Texas State Optical Today

Determining the best myopia control option starts with a detailed eye exam and consultation. Our team at Texas State Optical is dedicated to providing personalized care to help manage and slow down myopia progression, ensuring the best long-term eye health for you or your child.

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Texas State Optical to learn more about myopia control treatments. Contact our office in Austin, Texas, by calling (512) 452-5735 to book an appointment today.