Myopia Control

Myopia

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness. It is a common refractive condition in which objects nearby are clear but objects that are far away are blurred. Myopia can be caused by the elongation of the eyeball, over focusing at near or a combination of both.

  • There are approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide with myopia—more than 22% of the global population1

  • By 2020, it’s estimated that an additional 1 billion people may develop myopia—bringing the global prevalence to 2.5 billion people2

  • The increased prevalence of myopia is thought to be related to genetics and environmental factors such as reduced time spent outdoors and (possibly) increased near-work activity like reading, writing, and computer or electronic device use3

1.Holden, 2014, 2. Dolgin, 2015, 3. Foster, 2014

Controlling Myopia

Myopia Control describes methods used to slow the progression of myopia. Dr. Maze is trained to treatments to children at an early age in order to proactively slow down or stop progression of myopia. We at West Suburban Family Vision and Therapy want to be proactive with treatment, including yearly eye exams starting at as young as five years old. The earlier the problem is identified and treatment initiated the better the long term results are likely to be.

Treatments

We offer 5  main treatments to control myopia with varying success. They are:

  • Atropine eye drops — medicine designed to dilate the pupil and relax the focus center; must be used in conjunction with reading glasses in most cases

  • Distance-Center Multifocal contact lenses — special lenses that have different powers in different zones of the lens to correct vision problems

  • Orthokeratology (“ortho-k”) — specially designed contact lenses that are worn at night to prevent symptoms of myopia during the dayAlthough it goes by many names, including CRT and Gentle Vision Shaping System, Ortho-k is the wearing of a reshaping lens (similar to rigid gas permeable contact lens) during sleeping hours to reshape the cornea and eliminate the need for daytime glasses and contacts. An exciting side benefit is that studies have shown that those who use Ortho-k may reduce the chance rate at which their myopia is worsening. Click here for more info.

  • Multifocal eyeglasses — in some specific types of eyes with “Esophoria” adult bifocals or multifocal eyeglasses can help slow down the progression of myopia

  • Syntonics and Vision Therapy — in some specific types of eyes with over convergence or focusing flexiblity probelms a home regime of therapy may be added to your program of care.

Each method offers different benefits to those suffering from myopia. Our experienced doctors will determine the best treatment for you or your child based on individual needs.