Myopia Management: The Benefits of Orthokeratology and Atropine Treatment

What Is Myopia?

Myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while near objects remain clear. It typically develops during childhood and progresses over time, especially with increased screen time, lack of outdoor activities, and genetic predisposition. Severe myopia can lead to risks such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration later in life. Managing myopia early is crucial to minimizing its progression and reducing these risks.

Reshaping Vision Overnight

Ortho-K is a non-surgical treatment that uses specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, temporarily correcting your vision so you can see clearly during the day without glasses or contact lenses.

Benefits of Ortho-K:

Slows Myopia Progression: Numerous studies show Ortho-K can significantly slow the progression of myopia in children and teenagers.

Freedom from Daytime Glasses or Contacts: Wake up to clear vision without the need for corrective lenses during the day.

Non-Invasive and Reversible: Ortho-K is a non-surgical, reversible treatment option, making it ideal for children and those not ready for permanent solutions like LASIK.

Enhanced Lifestyle Flexibility: Perfect for active kids and adults who participate in sports, swimming, or other activities where glasses or contacts can be inconvenient.

A Simple, Effective Solution

Low-dose atropine eye drops are another effective treatment for slowing the progression of myopia, especially in children. These medicated drops are typically applied once daily and work by relaxing the eye's focusing mechanism, reducing stress on the eyes.

Benefits of Atropine Treatment:

Proven to Reduce Myopia Progression: Studies have shown atropine can slow myopia progression by up to 60% in children.

Minimal Side Effects: Low-dose atropine is well-tolerated, with mild side effects such as slight light sensitivity or difficulty focusing up close in some cases.

Easy to Administer: Daily application of eye drops is quick and straightforward, making it a manageable routine for parents and children.

Book Your Child’s Eye Exam with Chan Eye Care Today

At Chan Eye Care, we are dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. We use advanced technology to assess your or your child’s eye health and determine the most effective myopia management plan. By incorporating treatments like Ortho-K and atropine, we help ensure clear vision and reduce the risks of long-term complications. Early intervention is key, so don’t wait to take control of myopia.

If you’re concerned about your child’s myopia, schedule an eye exam to learn more about how Orthokeratology and Atropine treatments can benefit your family. Visit our office is in Virginia Beach, Virginia, or call (757) 430-8800 to book your appointment today.