Myopia is increasing worldwide and by 2050 it is estimated that 50% of the world’s population, about 5 billion people, will be nearsighted. As myopia continues to develop, it increases the risk of eye diseases such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. Theories suggest the cause of this epidemic is due to decreased outdoor time and increased use of digital devices. Myopia has become a serious public health concern.

Formerly, the only treatment option for myopia was corrective lenses including glasses or contacts. However, new options for myopia management include orthokeratology, low concentration atropine eye drops, and multifocal contact lenses.

Here at Lake Travis Eye and Laser Center, we are dedicated to serving our patients and offering evidence-based treatment options to help slow your child’s myopic progression.  It is our priority to ensure parents and patients are educated on their options and can make an informed decision to help their child achieve their best visual potential.

What is Myopia?

Myopia or nearsightedness occurs when the focuses of the eye is either too powerful or the eye is too long in length, leading to blurry distance vision. Generally, vision up close will be clear without glasses.

How do I know if my child has myopia?

The best way to determine if your child has myopia is to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam. Some signs of myopia may include squinting when looking in the distance, holding items closer, or sitting closer to a computer or TV to see. 

Myopia Management Services:

1. Atropine Eye Drops

Atropine eye drops are a pharmaceutical solution and are believed to act via receptors in the retina to reduce myopia progression. The eye drop is formulated into a very low concentration by a compounding pharmacy and is instilled into each eye nightly.

2. Orthokeratology

Orthokeratology is a gentle overnight corneal reshaping therapy. The rigid gas permeable contact lenses are applied before bedtime and removed in the morning upon awakening. Orthokeratology lenses temporarily alter the corneal curvature to correct myopia and eliminate the need to wear glasses or contacts during the day.

3. Multifocal Contact Lenses

Soft multifocal contact lenses utilize a dual focus design to correct vision and slow the progression of myopia. Multifocal contact lenses were originally designed for presbyopic adults; however, several research studies have shown a significant slowing of myopia progression in children. The contacts are worn during the day and removed in the evening.

What are the benefits of myopia control?

One is reduced risk of visual impairment and dependency on glasses or contacts. A second is allowing for better options and outcomes for surgical myopia correction later in life. By reducing the progression of myopia, there will be lower rates of retinal detachment, myopic macular degeneration, glaucoma and early cataract formation.

How long does treatment last?

 Myopia management treatment should be continued until progression stops. Your eye doctor may switch treatments for your child as needed.

What makes Lake Travis Eye & Laser Center unique?

 Lake Travis Eye utilizes state-of-the-art technology to monitor myopia progression. Specifically, optical axial length measurements (which measures eye elongation), a key determinant of myopia development.