Optometrist adjusting a phoropter for a child during an eye exam.

What Is Myopia Control?

Overview

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. 

It develops when the eye grows too long, or the cornea curves too much, causing light to focus incorrectly on the retina.

Why Is Myopia a Concern?

The prevalence of myopia is rising rapidly. In 2010, 28% of the global population had myopia, and this number is expected to reach 50% by 2050. Myopia isn't just about needing stronger glasses—it can also increase the risk of serious eye diseases, including:

  • Glaucoma – Increased eye pressure that can damage the optic nerve.
  • Cataracts – Clouding of the eye's lens, affecting vision.
  • Macular Degeneration – Damage to the retina's central area, leading to vision loss.
  • Retinal Detachment – When the retina pulls away from its normal position, requiring emergency treatment.

Since children’s eyes are still developing, their myopia often worsens over time. Controlling myopia early is crucial to reducing future eye health risks.

What Is Myopia Control & How Does It Work?

Myopia control refers to treatments designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness, helping to maintain clearer vision and reduce long-term risks. 

Unlike corrective glasses or contacts that only improve vision, myopia control methods actively slow down how quickly myopia worsens.

There are several scientifically backed methods to help manage and control myopia progression, including specialized lenses, eye drops, and lifestyle changes.

Myopia Control Treatment Options

Eyeglasses & Lenses for Myopia Control

Certain eyeglasses and lenses, such as MiyoSmart lenses, are designed to both correct vision and slow myopia progression

These lenses use a unique Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) Technology, which helps manage how light enters the eye, reducing excessive eye growth.

Clinical studies have shown that MiyoSmart lenses can slow myopia progression by up to 60%, making them an excellent choice for children between the ages of 6-18.

Contact Lenses for Myopia Control

There are two primary types of contact lenses designed for myopia control:

  1. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) – Special overnight lenses that gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, providing clear vision during the day without needing glasses or contacts.
  2. Abiliti Contact Lenses by J&J - A soft, daily disposable lens worn for 8 hours per day, 5 days a week. These lenses offer therapeutic benefits that help slow myopia progression.

Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops are another proven method to slow myopia progression in children. Atropine relaxes the eye’s focusing mechanism, helping to reduce the excessive growth of the eyeball, which is a major cause of myopia.

Studies show that 0.01% atropine drops can slow myopia progression by 50-60% with minimal side effects.

Explore all our vision care solutions today.

Lifestyle Changes for Myopia Prevention

Along with medical treatments, certain lifestyle habits can help slow myopia progression:

  • Increase outdoor time – At least 90 minutes per day of outdoor play can significantly reduce myopia progression.
  • Reduce screen time – Excessive near-work (e.g., screens, books) is linked to faster myopia progression.
  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule – Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look 20 feet away to reduce eye strain.

Who Is Myopia Control For?

Myopia control is recommended for:

  • Children & Teens (6-18 years old) – Early intervention is the most effective.
  • Adults with Progressive Myopia – Though less common, adults with worsening myopia can still benefit.
  • Anyone Concerned About Long-Term Eye Health – Preventative measures can help maintain better vision for life.

Myopia Control: Start Early to Protect Lifelong Vision

Myopia is becoming more common, especially in children, and can lead to serious eye health risks if left unmanaged. 

Myopia control treatments—including specialized lenses, contacts, atropine drops, and lifestyle changes—can slow its progression and help protect long-term vision.

Early intervention is key. The sooner myopia management begins, the more effectively it can reduce future risks and eye problems. 

Take control of your vision. Book an eye consultation today.

FAQs About Myopia Control

What age should myopia control start?

The earlier, the better—typically between ages 6-12 when myopia progression is most active.

Can myopia control cure nearsightedness?

No, myopia control does not cure nearsightedness, but it can slow down its progression.

Are myopia control treatments safe?

Yes! Myopia control glasses, contact lenses, and atropine drops are all clinically tested and considered safe when prescribed by an optometrist.

How effective is myopia control?

Effectiveness depends on the method, but research shows myopia progression can be slowed by 30-60% with the right treatments.

Can adults use myopia control treatments?

While most effective for children, adults with progressive myopia can still benefit from certain treatments like Ortho-K lenses and atropine drops.

Learn more about our eye services and treatments.