How Myopia Control Lenses Help Manage Nearsightedness

Understanding Myopia: A Growing Concern

What Is Myopia?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It happens when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, leading to blurred vision when looking at distant objects.

For those with myopia in children, this condition usually starts during early school years and worsens over time. While glasses and soft contact lenses can help correct vision, they do not stop the eye from continuing to grow longer.

Why Is Myopia a Problem?

If myopia is not controlled, it can progress to high myopia, which increases the risk of serious eye diseases, such as:

• Retinal detachment – The retina separates from the back of the eye, which can cause permanent vision loss.
• Glaucoma – High pressure in the eye can damage the optic nerve, leading to blindness.
• Macular degeneration – The center of the retina breaks down, causing blurred or distorted vision.
• Cataracts – The lens of the eye becomes cloudy, reducing vision quality.

Due to lifestyle changes, such as increased screen time and less time outdoors, the number of people with myopia is increasing. This makes myopia management more important than ever.

What Are Myopia Control Lenses?

How Are They Different from Regular Glasses?

Traditional single vision spectacles or contact lenses correct blurry vision but do not stop the progression of myopia. Myopia control lenses, on the other hand, are specially designed to slow myopia progression by changing the way light enters the eye.

How Do Myopia Control Lenses Work?

The secret behind myopia control lenses is a process called peripheral defocus. Research published in Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci and conducted by experts like Tideman JWL shows that the way light focuses on the retina affects how the eye grows.

1. Correcting Central Vision

Like regular glasses, these lenses help wearers see clearly by focusing central light directly onto the retina.

2. Creating Peripheral Defocus

The lenses change how peripheral (side) light enters the eye, directing it to fall in front of the retina instead of behind it. This reduces the eye’s natural response to grow longer, which is the main cause of worsening myopia. Studies, including Br J Ophthalmol 2020 104 by Lam CSY, Tang WC, Tse DY, have confirmed that this method is effective.

3. Reducing Eye Strain

Many children today spend long hours on screens or reading, which contributes to progressive myopia. Myopia control lenses help ease the strain caused by prolonged near work, reducing fatigue and discomfort.

Types of Myopia Control Lenses

1. Spectacle Lenses for Myopia Control

These lenses look like regular glasses but are specially designed to slow myopia progression.

Dual-Focus Lenses

• These have alternating zones that focus light properly on the retina while creating peripheral defocus.
• Studies show they can slow down eye elongation and reduce myopia progression.

Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) Spectacle Lenses

• A study called Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments DIMS Spectacle Lenses Slow Myopia Progression: A 2-Year Randomised Clinical Trial found these lenses significantly reduced axial length growth in children.
• They use multiple small lens segments to redirect peripheral light, helping slow the worsening of myopia.

2. Contact Lenses for Myopia Control

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

• These are rigid gas-permeable lenses that reshape the cornea overnight.
• They allow clear vision during the day without wearing glasses or contacts.
• Studies show that Ortho-K slows axial length growth, making it an effective myopia management tool.

Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses

• These lenses have a progressive addition lens design that ensures light is properly focused on the retina while also controlling peripheral light.
• They provide a comfortable option for children who prefer contact lenses over glasses.

3. Hybrid Myopia Control Solutions

Some new technologies combine spectacle lens design with contact lenses or wearable devices that track myopia progression and provide real-time adjustments.

Benefits of Myopia Control Lenses

1. Slowing Myopia Progression

Research confirms that myopia control lenses can slow the rate of axial elongation. This means fewer prescription changes and lower risks of developing high myopia.

2. Reducing the Risk of Eye Diseases

By controlling eye elongation, these lenses reduce the likelihood of serious eye conditions, including visual impairment later in life.

3. Improving Quality of Life

• Children wearing myopia control lenses experience better vision and fewer prescription changes.
• Clear vision helps improve school performance and daily activities.
• Less dependence on stronger glasses improves overall comfort.

4. A Safe and Non-Invasive Solution

Unlike surgery, myopia control lenses offer a non-invasive way to manage nearsightedness. They are an ideal choice for parents concerned about their child’s eye health.

Who Can Benefit from Myopia Control Lenses?

Children and Adolescents

The fastest myopia progression usually happens between the ages of 6 and 16. Children wearing myopia control lenses during this stage experience the most benefits.

Adults with Progressive Myopia

While myopia control lenses are mainly designed for children, some adults with worsening myopia can also benefit from them.

How to Adapt to Myopia Control Lenses

Adjustment Period

• Some children may need a short time to adjust to DIMS spectacle lenses or progressive addition lenses.
• Initial discomfort is normal but usually goes away within a few days.

Consistent Use

• Wearing the lenses regularly as recommended by an eye care professional ensures the best results.

Regular Check-Ups

• Routine eye exams help track myopia progression and adjust prescriptions if needed.

Supporting Myopia Control with Lifestyle Changes

1. Spend More Time Outdoors

Research shows that children who spend more time outside have a lower risk of developing myopia. Aim for at least 2 hours of outdoor time daily.

2. Reduce Screen Time

Limiting extended screen use and taking breaks every 20 minutes can help reduce eye strain.

3. Use Proper Lighting

• Poor lighting during reading or studying can strain the eyes and worsen progressive myopia.
• Make sure to use bright, natural light whenever possible.

Choosing the Right Myopia Control Lenses

Consult an Eye Care Professional

An optometrist can recommend the best myopia management plan based on age, prescription, and lifestyle.

Factors to Consider

• Type of lens – Spectacles vs. contacts
• Comfort – Some children may prefer contact lenses for active lifestyles
• Family history – Children with myopic parents are at higher risk of developing high myopia

Transform Your Vision Today with My Eye Room

Protect your child’s eyesight with expert myopia management at My Eye Room. Our team provides comprehensive eye care, including:

• Advanced myopia control solutions
• Personalized spectacle and contact lens fittings
• Expert advice for long-term eye health

Book your appointment today and take the first step toward clearer vision!