Can Myopia Be Stopped? Exploring Modern Management Options

Myopia is becoming increasingly common among children and adults worldwide. While it can’t technically be cured, modern advancements in eye care have made it possible to slow its progression and protect long-term vision. At Ciotti Eye Care, we offer several innovative treatments to help manage myopia and reduce its impact over time.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This makes distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. Genetics, prolonged screen time, and reduced outdoor activity all contribute to the rising prevalence of myopia in children.

Ortho-K: Reshaping Vision Overnight

Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, allowing for clear vision during the day - without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. Beyond convenience, Ortho-K has been shown to slow the progression of myopia in children by controlling how light focuses on the retina, signaling the eye to slow its elongation.

MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses

MiSight® 1 day lenses are the first FDA-approved soft contact lenses proven to slow myopia progression in children aged 8-12 years. These daily disposable lenses provide clear vision and are designed with a dual-focus optical system that helps manage how the eye grows. For parents seeking an easy and safe solution, MiSight lenses are a great option for children who may not be ready for Ortho-K but still need proactive myopia management.

Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops have become another effective tool in controlling myopia progression. When used under the guidance of an eye doctor, these drops can relax the eye’s focusing mechanism, reducing the signals that cause the eye to elongate. At Ciotti Eye Care, we carefully monitor dosage and progress to ensure optimal results with minimal side effects.

Combining Treatments for the Best Results

Each child’s eyes are unique, and in some cases, combining treatment options can yield the best outcomes. For instance, atropine drops may be used alongside Ortho-K or MiSight lenses for enhanced control. Our team at Ciotti Eye Care creates personalized myopia management plans based on your child’s age, prescription, and lifestyle.

Schedule a Myopia Management Consultation Today

While myopia cannot be completely stopped, today’s advanced treatments can significantly slow its progression and preserve clearer vision for years to come. Early intervention is key - especially in childhood when the eyes are still developing.

If your child is nearsighted or at risk of developing myopia, Ciotti Eye Care can help. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam to explore the best myopia management options, including Ortho-K, MiSight® 1 day lenses, and atropine therapy. Visit our office in Riverview, Florida, or call (813) 212-7400 today.