MYOPIA MANAGEMENT
At Spectacles, we specialize in Myopia Management, offering cutting-edge solutions to address nearsightedness in patients of all ages. Drs. Philip and Erica Meltzer tailor personalized treatment plans that go beyond simply correcting vision. Discover a brighter future with our Myopia Management services.
WHAT IS MYOPIA?
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a vision condition where objects in the distance appear blurry, while objects at near appear clear. This occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia can develop during childhood and typically worsens until early adulthood. It can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery, but proactive management is essential to prevent progression and associated eye health risks.
By 2050, half of the world's population will by myopic.
Myopia is mostly genetic, but also caused by increased near work (screen time) and limited outdoor time.
High myopia can lead to vision-threatening conditions like retinal detachments, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and more.
Myopia tends to progress at 0.50D to 1.00D per year, but can vary significantly from child to child.
MYOPIA MANAGEMENT FAQ
At Spectacles, we offer two myopia management options: Atropine eye drops and MiSight contact lenses.
WHAT IS ATROPINE?
Atropine is a medication commonly used to slow down the progression of nearsightedness. It belongs to a class of drugs called anticholinergics, which work by blocking acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter. Atropine eye drops are applied to the eyes every night. The exact mechanism by which atropine works for myopia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve several factors, including changes in the growth and development of the eye's structures. Research shows low-dose atropine (0.05%) can effectively reduce the rate of myopia progression in children. At this time, Atropine is pending FDA approval in multiple clinical trials.
WHAT ARE POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS OF ATROPINE?
Pupil Dilation (Mydriasis): Atropine causes the pupil to dilate, leading to increased sensitivity to light, glare, and difficulty focusing on near objects. This effect can impact vision, particularly in bright environments or when performing tasks that require close-up vision. Atropine is dosed at night before bed, minimizing these potential effects. Increased Intraocular Pressure: In some individuals, especially those predisposed to certain eye conditions like narrow-angle glaucoma, atropine may cause a temporary increase in intraocular pressure. Dryness and Irritation: Atropine eye drops may cause temporary dryness and irritation of the eyes. This can usually be managed with lubricating eye drops or artificial tears. Systemic Effects: While very rare, systemic side effects of atropine overdose, such as increased heart rate, dry mouth, and dizziness, can occur.
WHAT IS MISIGHT?
MiSight contact lenses are a type of soft contact lens specifically designed for the management of myopia in children. Developed by CooperVision, MiSight lenses incorporate innovative optical designs and specialized features to help slow down the progression of myopia in young wearers. MiSight lenses work by focusing peripheral light rays in a way that helps to reduce the elongation of the eyeball, which is a key factor in the development and progression of myopia. MiSight is the only FDA approved contact lens for myopia management.
ARE THERE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH MISIGHT LENSES?
As with any contact lens, there are potential risks associated with wearing MiSight lenses, such as dryness, discomfort, and the risk of eye infections if not properly cared for. MiSight is a daily disposable contact lens, which helps mitigate these risks.
HOW LONG DOES MY CHILD
HAVE TO STAY ON THE DROP?
HOW LONG DOES MY CHILD
HAVE TO WEAR THESE LENSES?
This can vary significantly depending on the child. Ideally, when the child is ready we will transition out of Atropine into MiSight contact lenses. If that is not an option, it is best to stay on the drop (as long as it is tolerated with minimal side effects) until the eye has fully matured, around 17 years old. Coming off atropine too soon can cause a rebound effect, which results in a large jump in myopia, effectively undoing the years of treatment.
Ideally, once a child is on the MiSight protocol, it is best to stay on until age 17, or even through college, as many children continue to progress in their early 20s. It is on a case by case basis, but the best thing about MiSight is that there is no rebound effect after completing treatment, the treatment results are sustained.
AT WHAT AGE CAN MY CHILD START
ATROPINE OR MISIGHT?
Atropine treatment can be initiated in children as young as 5 to 6 years old. Younger children tend to experience less visual side effects than older children. MiSight contact lenses are specifically designed for children and can be used as early as 8 years old. They can be prescribed for younger children as well, as long as the child is comfortable inserting and removing MiSight lenses on their own.
HOW EFFECTIVE ARE MISIGHT LENSES?
According to data from a 7-year international clinical trial, over a 3-year period, MiSight slowed the progression of myopia in age-appropriate children by 59% on average, and 41% of eyes had no progression. Among MiSight wearers, 23% percent of eyes had no progression at 6 years. On average, children wearing MiSight progressed less than 1.00D over 6 years. Evidence indicates that there is no rebound effect with MiSight lenses, myopia control treatment gains were retained over 12 months after treatment ceased.