Myopia Management for Children

As society becomes more technologically dependent—with heavy device use at home and laptops in the classroom—children are at an increased risk of developing myopia at younger ages. This risk is especially high for children whose parents developed myopia early in life. While it was once said that myopia was a "sign of a good reader," early onset often leads to higher degrees of nearsightedness. This can cause structural changes to eye health and impact a child’s long-term lifestyle. While glasses, contacts, and surgery can correct vision, they do not address the underlying social limitations and ocular development issues.

During my time in optometry school, the primary method for slowing myopia was using bifocals to reduce near-focusing effort. While we still utilize this approach, recent scientific advancements have introduced more effective mitigation methods.

Newer contact lens designs focus light in a way that stops a process called peripheral defocus, which is a primary trigger for axial eye growth (the lengthening of the eye that increases myopia). These specific multifocal soft lenses are worn during the day. Another option, Orthokeratology (Ortho-K), utilizes a lens worn only during sleep that acts as a retainer to reshape the cornea and stabilize the eye.

For children who may find contact lenses challenging, the Stellest lens is a breakthrough eyeglass option. It is reported to slow myopia progression by up to 71% over a two-year period, and our office has fully embraced this technology. Additionally, we may prescribe low-dose atropine eye drops nightly to slow eye growth, sometimes in combination with Stellest lenses.

Most importantly, lifestyle interventions are critical. Two essential behavioral changes include:

1.     Increased Outdoor Time: Spending up to two hours per day outdoors—looking into the distance under natural light—is highly effective.

2.     The 20-20-20 Rule: To reduce digital eye strain, we recommend "look aways" where a child looks at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds or longer after every 20 minutes of near-work.

The World Health Organization predicts that by 2050, 50% of the global population will be myopic. Critically, 10% will have high myopia (greater than -6.00D), significantly increasing the risk of permanent pathologies. As we face this rising "myopia epidemic," proactive intervention is essential. Dr. Rubin is a leader in his community, providing these advanced treatments to protect the future of your children's vision.

Neil Rubin, OD, FAAO

Diplomate, American Board of Optometry