Gifting your Child Clear Vision With Myopia Management
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common, particularly among children. Research indicates that by 2050, half the world’s population could be affected by myopia ). At Pacific Eye Doctors, we are committed to providing effective myopia management strategies to slow the progression of this condition.
Our goal is to help your child maintain clear vision and reduce the risk of future eye health issues, including severe conditions like myopic macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and cataracts.
What You Need to Know About Myopia
Nearsightedness Worsens as Over Time
Nearsightedness Worsens as Over Time
Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in blurred distance vision while near vision remains clear. Myopia usually begins in childhood and worsens as the eye continues to grow. The earlier myopia develops, the faster it tends to progress, especially in children under the age of 10. High myopia increases the risk of severe eye diseases later in life if left unmanaged.
Studies show that reducing myopia by just one dioptre can lower the lifetime risk of myopic macular degeneration by 40% and the risk of vision impairment by 20%. This is why proactive myopia management is crucial to protecting your child’s long-term eye health.
We Take a Clinically-Endorsed Approach to Managing Myopia
How Do We Manage and Treat Myopia?
Aiming to slow its progression and minimise the risks associated with high myopia, we offer a range of treatment options. The best choice for your child will depend on their unique prescription and vision needs. The available treatments include:
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
These specially designed gas-permeable lenses are worn overnight to reshape the cornea, allowing your child to enjoy clear vision during the day without glasses or daytime contact lenses. Ortho-K lenses effectively slow myopia progression and are ideal for active children who engage in sports or water activities. Ortho-K costs $1,575 per year, including an initial work-up, lens fitting, and necessary follow-up appointments.
Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses
These soft contact lenses are worn during the day and help slow the progression of myopia by reducing eye elongation. They offer clear vision at all distances and are comfortable for most children. The annual cost for soft contact lenses ranges from $414 to $1,090, depending on the type of lenses, with follow-up care included in the price. Back-up glasses are also recommended.
Atropine Eye Drops
Low-dose atropine eye drops are administered at bedtime and are effective at slowing the progression of myopia. While these drops help manage myopia, glasses or contact lenses are still required for clear vision. The cost of atropine drops is $280 per year, and they are an excellent option if other treatments, like glasses or contacts, are not suitable.
Myopia Management Glasses
Specially designed glasses for myopia management help slow progression while providing clear vision. These must be worn full-time for best results. The cost for myopia management glasses is $430 per year, with frames either supplied by you or available for purchase at our practice.
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Why Early Intervention is Vital
The progression of myopia is fastest in younger children, especially those under age 10. Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing myopia effectively and preventing high myopia from developing later. By starting myopia management early, we can significantly reduce the long-term risks of serious eye conditions. We recommend annual eye exams to monitor your child’s vision and make timely adjustments to their treatment plan.
Schedule a Myopia Consultation
If your child has been diagnosed with myopia or if you’ve noticed they are having difficulty seeing distant objects, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us today to schedule a myopia consultation. Our expert team is here to help protect your child’s vision and ensure a clearer future.
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