Myopia (nearsightedness) is when distant objects appear blurry while close objects are clear. This condition often begins in childhood and can progress as the child grows.
In today's digital age, myopia is becoming increasingly common among children and adolescents. As screens dominate our daily lives and outdoor activities decline, the need for effective myopia management has never been more critical.
SightHealth Primary Eyecare provides cutting-edge solutions to control the progression of myopia. We ensure healthier eyes and clearer vision for the future. Explore the latest advancements in myopia management and discover how our eye doctor can help protect your child's vision.
Is Myopia Management Necessary?
Myopia management is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. This reduces the risk of severe eye problems later in life, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal detachment.
Secondly, it improves quality of life by offering clearer vision and reducing dependency on glasses or contact lenses. The prevalence of myopia is increasing due to modern lifestyles. Therefore, early intervention through myopia management is crucial to maintaining long-term eye health.
What is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology, commonly known as ortho-k, is a non-surgical procedure that involves using specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea, the eye's front surface, while you sleep. Upon waking, the temporary corneal reshaping provides clear vision throughout the day without needing glasses or contact lenses.
How Orthokeratology Works
Ortho-k lenses apply precise pressure to the cornea, flattening it to correct myopia. This reshaping alters how light enters the eye, allowing it to focus correctly on the retina, resulting in clear vision. The effects are temporary, so patients need to wear the lenses nightly to maintain vision correction.
Who Can Benefit from Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology is particularly beneficial for:
- Children and Teenagers: Ortho-k can help slow myopia progression in young patients, reducing the risk of severe eye conditions later in life
- Active Individuals: Ortho-k is ideal for those who play sports or engage in activities where glasses or daytime contact lenses are inconvenient
- Adults Seeking Non-Surgical Options: Ortho-k offers a reversible alternative for those who prefer not to undergo refractive surgery like LASIK
Myopia Management at SightHealth Primary Eyecare
We offer a comprehensive myopia management program to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children and adolescents. Our approach includes the use of orthokeratology but also incorporates:
Atropine Eye Drops
Low-dose atropine eye drops are a well-researched treatment that effectively slows myopia progression. By dilating the pupil and relaxing the eye's focusing mechanism, these drops help reduce the rate at which myopia worsens. Typically administered once daily, atropine drops are safe for long-term use and have minimal side effects.
MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses
MiSight® contact lenses are FDA-approved daily disposable lenses designed for children with myopia. These lenses have a unique optical design that corrects vision and slows the progression of myopia. MiSight® lenses are comfortable, easy to use, and provide a dual benefit of vision correction and myopia control.
Our holistic approach ensures each patient receives a tailored treatment plan suited to their specific needs. We help to protect your vision and reduce the risk of severe eye conditions in the future.
Advanced Myopia Care in St Johns
SightHealth Primary Eyecare aims to provide the best care for your eyes. If you or your child is experiencing myopia, don't wait to seek help. Schedule an appointment to learn more about our myopia management services. We can help preserve your vision for the future.