Myopia Management (for Children) What is it and why is it important?

More and more children and teenagers suffer from nearsightedness (myopia). Myopia means distant objects appear blurry, while near vision remains clear. The number of affected individuals is rising worldwide, including in Europe.

Why is myopia management necessary? Progressive myopia increases the risk of serious eye diseases later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, or macular degeneration. The goal of myopia management is to slow or stop the progression in children and teens to protect their long-term eye health.

How does myopia management work? It involves various personalized strategies, including:

• Special glasses lenses (e.g., with peripheral defocus) to slow progression.
• Multifocal daily or monthly contact lenses designed to control eye growth.
• Medicinal treatment: Low-dose atropine eye drops (by an ophthalmologist) in some cases.
• Lifestyle changes: More outdoor time and regular breaks from close-up work (reading, tablets) reduce risk.

Who is it for? Recommended for children around 6 years and older who:

• Already have myopia of at least -1 diopter

Show rapid progression (more than -0.5 diopters per year).

How does it work?

1. Risk assessment and parent consultation
2. Regular eye exams to measure vision and eye length
3. Tailored treatment plan (glasses, lenses, drops)
4. Ongoing monitoring and adjustment

Important notes for parents:

• Myopia management slows progression but does not cure or reverse it.
• Early and regular check-ups are crucial.
• Each treatment plan is personalized and reviewed regularly.

Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us for detailed advice on myopia management and the best solution for your child.