When children are diagnosed with myopia, parents often wonder what can be done to keep their child’s vision from worsening. At Eye & Vision Care Optometric Group, we focus on proactive myopia management to slow progression, protect long-term eye health, and give kids the freedom to see clearly without worry.
Dr. Luke Werkhoven explains that early detection, careful monitoring, and modern treatment options can make a significant difference in how a child’s vision develops.
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Myopia Management
According to Dr. Werkhoven, “the best candidates for myopia management treatment are children who have a high genetic predisposition for progressive myopia.” This means that if one or both parents are nearsighted—or needed glasses from a young age—their child is more likely to develop worsening myopia.
Age of onset also plays a role. Children who develop nearsightedness before their teenage years tend to experience faster progression as their eyes grow. For this reason, the ideal time to begin management is typically between ages six and eight, when changes in vision can still be guided effectively.
How Myopia Progression Is Measured
Tracking a child’s vision accurately is key to slowing myopia. Dr. Werkhoven describes several methods used during eye exams to measure changes over time. These include visual acuity testing with standardized eye charts, retinoscopy to assess how light bends through the eye, and manifest refraction using the phoropter to determine the exact prescription needed for clear sight.
These tests help the optometrist identify subtle changes and determine whether a child’s myopia is stable or advancing. Regular monitoring ensures treatment decisions are based on reliable data, giving families a clearer picture of how well their child’s eyes are responding to management.
Myopia Management Treatments That Work
Myopia management is a shared decision between the doctor, child, and parents. As Dr. Werkhoven notes, “we want to do what’s best for everyone involved.” Management options include traditional glasses or daytime contact lenses for clear vision, along with specialized methods designed to slow the eye’s growth.
These advanced options include orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses—custom gas-permeable contacts worn overnight that gently reshape the cornea for clear daytime vision—and prescription eye drops such as low-dose atropine formulations that can reduce myopia progression. The best approach depends on the child’s age, prescription, lifestyle, and family goals.
What Parents Can Expect from Treatment
Families starting myopia management can expect a gradual, measurable improvement in how stable their child’s vision remains over time. “Parents should expect slowing of the myopia progression,” Dr. Werkhoven explains. The goal isn’t just clearer vision—it’s preserving eye health and preventing future complications such as retinal detachment or macular degeneration that are associated with high myopia.
With regular follow-ups and a customized care plan, children can enjoy sharper, more stable vision while minimizing the long-term risks of progressive nearsightedness.
Protecting Your Child’s Future Vision in Santa Barbara
Every child deserves the chance to see the world clearly. Schedule a myopia management consultation at Eye & Vision Care Optometric Group today to learn which treatment options best suit your child’s needs. Our experienced team will guide you through each step—from diagnosis and monitoring to customized care designed to protect vision for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is myopia management?
- Myopia management includes specialized treatments that slow the progression of nearsightedness in children, such as ortho-k lenses, low-dose atropine drops, or specially designed soft contacts.
Does myopia management cure nearsightedness?
- No, myopia can’t be cured, but management treatments can significantly slow how quickly it progresses, reducing the risk of severe nearsightedness later in life.
Is myopia management safe for children?
- Yes. Treatments like ortho-k and low-dose atropine are well-researched and safe when supervised by a qualified optometrist. Most children adjust quickly and experience noticeable improvement.
How long will my child need myopia management?
- Myopia management usually continues through the growing years—typically until vision stabilizes in the late teens. Regular exams help determine when treatment can be adjusted or stopped.
Will insurance cover myopia management?
- Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance providers may not cover specialized treatments, but our team can review options and create an affordable plan that fits your family’s needs.