Myopia Control Management
With a clinical interest in myopia management, The Focal Point Optometrist in Perth, offers programs designed to effectively slow the progression of short-sightedness in children. We provide a comprehensive range of treatment options aimed at preserving your vision and long-term eye health.
What is Myopia? And Why Does It Need to Be Managed?
Myopia, or short-sightedness, is the most common refractive error among children and young adults. Myopia is caused by abnormal eye growth. The eye elongates, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. This results in blurred vision for distant objects.
Myopia can progress rapidly during childhood, especially between the ages of 8 and 18. If myopia continues to progress, the child is at an increased risk of developing eye diseases later in life, such as cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment and macular degeneration.
Treatment Options For Myopia
If you or your child has myopia, you may be wondering what you can do to slow its progression and reduce the risk of developing eye conditions later in life. There are three specific treatment options available:
- Orthokeratology (ortho-k): Ortho-k contact lenses are designed to be worn at night. They gently reshape the cornea while the child sleeps, so that they can see clearly without glasses or contact lenses during the day.
- Atropine eye drops: Atropine eye drops work by dilating the pupil and relaxing the focusing muscle of the eye. This helps to slow the elongation of the eye and reduce the progression of myopia.
- Multifocal contact lenses: Multifocal contact lenses have different prescriptions in different areas of the lens. This helps to control myopia and also slow its progression.
The choice of treatment option for your child depends on their specific needs and circumstances. Our Optometrists are here to assist you in selecting the most suitable treatment plan and to monitor your child's progress closely over time.
