How to Slow Progression of Myopia in Children and Protect Their Vision

Myopia (short-sightedness) is becoming increasingly common among children worldwide. More kids are needing glasses at an earlier age, and without proper management, their vision can continue to worsen over time. But why is myopia progressing so quickly, and what can parents do to slow it down?

At Eyes on Mosman, we believe early intervention is key. In this blog, we’ll explore why myopia develops, the risks of progression, and the most effective strategies to help slow its advancement and protect your child’s long-term eye health.

What is Myopia and Why is it Increasing?

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurred distance vision while near vision remains clear. The earlier myopia develops, the higher the likelihood of it progressing to more severe levels, increasing the risk of eye diseases such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration later in life.

Why Are More Children Becoming Myopic?

Several factors contribute to the rising rates of childhood myopia:

• Increased screen time – Excessive use of digital devices and near work (such as reading and studying) puts strain on young eyes.
• Reduced outdoor time – Lack of natural light exposure has been linked to myopia progression.
• Genetics – If one or both parents are myopic, their children are more likely to develop it.

Understanding these risk factors is the first step in taking proactive measures to slow myopia progression in children.

Effective Myopia Control Strategies

While standard glasses correct vision, they do not slow down myopia progression. Fortunately, modern eye care has developed several evidence-based strategies to help manage childhood myopia more effectively.

1. Specialised Myopia Control Lenses

Spectacle Lenses for Myopia Management

Newly developed myopia control spectacle lenses, such as MiyoSmart and Stellest, have been clinically proven to slow down myopia progression by altering how light enters the eye, reducing eye strain and excessive elongation of the eyeball.

Contact Lenses for Myopia Control

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specially designed rigid contact lenses that reshape the cornea overnight, providing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts. Studies show Ortho-K can significantly slow myopia progression.
• Soft Myopia Control Contact Lenses: Daily wear options like MiSight are designed to slow the rate of myopia progression while offering clear vision correction.

2. Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops have been found to be highly effective in slowing myopia progression. Used in conjunction with glasses or contact lenses, these drops help reduce the eye’s excessive growth while maintaining good visual function.

3. Increase Outdoor Time

Spending at least 90 minutes per day outdoors has been shown to reduce the risk of developing myopia and slow its progression. Natural light plays a crucial role in regulating healthy eye development.

4. Reduce Screen Time & Encourage Visual Breaks

Excessive time spent on screens and close-up work can contribute to myopia progression. Encourage children to:

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
• Maintain a proper reading distance (at least 30cm from books or screens).
• Limit recreational screen time and encourage outdoor activities instead.

5. Regular Eye Exams for Early Detection

Routine eye exams are essential for monitoring myopia progression and making timely adjustments to treatment plans. The earlier myopia is detected, the better the chances of controlling it effectively.

At Eyes on Mosman, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess your child’s vision and provide personalised myopia management strategies. Our experienced optometrists work closely with families to create tailored treatment plans that suit each child’s lifestyle and needs.

Protecting Your Child’s Vision for the Future

Myopia is not just about needing glasses—it’s about long-term eye health. High levels of myopia increase the risk of serious eye conditions in adulthood, making early intervention crucial.

By implementing proven myopia control strategies, parents can help their children maintain better vision and reduce the risks associated with progressive myopia.

Book a Myopia Control Consultation at Eyes on Mosman

If your child has myopia or is at risk of developing it, now is the time to take action. At Eyes on Mosman, we offer comprehensive myopia management solutions to help slow its progression and safeguard your child’s vision for the future.

Book an appointment today and give your child the best chance at maintaining healthy eyesight for life.