Myopia, commonly referred to as nearsightedness, is a condition where distant objects appear blurry. It occurs when the eye elongates or the cornea curves too steeply, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it.
Myopia management refers to a range of treatments designed to slow the progression of myopia in children and adolescents. It aims to address not just the symptoms but the underlying progression, ensuring better visual health over time.
Managing myopia is essential because uncorrected or progressing myopia can significantly impact a child's quality of life and long-term eye health. High levels of myopia are associated with an increased risk of serious eye conditions such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, and myopic maculopathy later in life. By slowing its progression, myopia management helps preserve vision and reduces the likelihood of these complications. Early intervention is critical, as it can make a lasting difference in a child's visual development and overall well-being. Modern myopia management techniques aim to slow the progression of the condition and reduce its associated risks.
Specialized spectacle lenses are designed to correct distance vision while providing additional near-focus zones. These lenses help reduce eye strain and slow myopia progression by supporting the eye's natural focusing mechanism.
Benefits:
• Clear vision at all distances
• Reduced eye strain during activities like reading or using digital devices
• Non-invasive and suitable for children and adults
• Easy to adapt for daily use
Soft multifocal contact lenses create controlled areas of defocus on the retina, which helps to slow eye elongation. These lenses correct central vision while managing peripheral defocus, a factor linked to myopia progression.
Benefits:
• Effective in slowing myopia progression
• Comfortable and convenient for active lifestyles
• Provides clear vision without the need for glasses
• Helps children maintain an active and confident lifestyle
Low-dose atropine eye drops are a prescription treatment used to slow myopia progression. The drops work by relaxing the eye's focusing mechanism and reducing eye growth.
Benefits:
• Proven to effectively slow myopia progression
• Easy to use
• Suitable for children as part of a comprehensive management plan
• Reduces the long-term risk of severe myopia-related complications
At Williamsburg Eye Care, we are committed to providing the most advanced myopia management solutions tailored to your needs. Whether it’s specialized spectacle lenses, contact lenses, or atropine drops, we will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to protect your vision.
Schedule a consultation with Williamsburg Eye Care to learn more about modern myopia management techniques and how they can benefit your child. Visit our office or call (757) 564-1907 to schedule an appointment today.