CAN MYOPIA BE CONTROLLED?

October 10, 2015

This blog article contains updated research from a previous post on this topic.

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition of the eye resulting in blurry vision in the distance.  It can be corrected by glasses, contact lenses or laser refractive surgery.  High levels of myopia are associated with diseases such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts and other diseases of the retina.  This combined with decreased quality of life resulting from greater dependence on glasses or contact lenses has led to much research in the area of myopia control.

Myopia is on the rise around the world.  In parts of East Asia upwards of 80% of people have myopia.  This figure is between 30 and 50% in North America.  One study found the incidence of myopia increased by 17% over 30 years in the US.  At one point it was thought to be mainly genetic, but with the rapid increase particularly in children, attention has been given to environmental factors.

Several studies have found that myopia is lower in children who spend more time outdoors.  While the reasons are not well understood, the theories include the effects of outdoor light on pupil size, the reduced amount of “near focus” involved with playing outdoors vs. being indoors reading or playing video games, and the effects of certain wavelengths of light on the physical growth of the eye itself.

Other studies performed with myopic children have found that by intentionally directing the focus of the light entering the eye onto the peripheral retina (instead of just the central retina as most lenses do) the amount of myopia increase is lessened over time.  A special lens developed for this purpose is now available at Mountain View Optometry – called the Zeiss Myovision , our doctors will often prescribe this lens for children who are diagnosed with myopia at an early age, and are therefore at higher risk for rapid increases in their glasses prescription.

Many eye doctors used to intentionally under correct some of their patients who were showing rapid increases in their myopic eyeglass corrections.  We now know through research that this is not only useless in terms of altering the progression of myopia, it may actually have the reverse effect and increase myopia over time.  Now our technique is to recommend more frequent adjustments to prescriptions that are changing rapidly.  **All Nikon and Zeiss Aspheric lenses purchased at Mountain View Optometry include prescription adjustments at 6 months after purchase, free of charge.  All children under 18 who are showing rapid increases in their eyeglass prescriptions are now checked at 6 month intervals to ensure accurate and precise lens corrections are up-to-date.

Other interesting techniques for myopia reduction include fitting multifocal soft contact lenses, and the wearing of overnight rigid lenses to reshape the corneal curvature.  Stay tuned, as more research becomes available we will keep you informed on the latest and most effective treatments to slow down the progression of myopia.

-Dr. Wilk

An elderly man is laying in bed next to an alarm clock.
By Tom Wilk April 28, 2025
A recent study has highlighted a concerning connection between visual impairment and sleep dysfunction among older adults.
A person is cleaning a pair of glasses with a cloth
By Rosendo C April 23, 2025
Learn simple, effective tips for cleaning, storing, and caring for your glasses. Discover how proper eyewear maintenance protects your vision and extends the life of your frames at Mountain View Optometry.
A woman wearing glasses is smiling in a black and white photo
By Rosendo C April 9, 2025
Tom Davies offers a distinguished eyewear experience through custom-made frames that combine artisanal design with a couture approach, setting new standards in premium eyewear since 2002.
The Pros and Cons of Cosmetic Eye Procedures
By Tom Wilk April 7, 2025
Cosmetic eye procedures can refresh your look and boost confidence, yet they come with risks. Explore the benefits and potential side effects to make an informed decision today.
A little girl wearing glasses and a blue dress.
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Discover Opal's playful and stylish children's eyewear, blending fashion and entertainment with popular licenses that kids love.
A woman wearing glasses and a red sweater is laughing.
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Celebrate ØRGREEN OPTICS’ legacy with the 1415 campaign, a tribute to Copenhagen’s oldest postal code. Discover how the city’s canals and creative energy inspire their unique designs.
A woman wearing glasses and a black pleated top
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Explore Etnia Barcelona’s new eyewear collection, where vibrant colors, bold contrasts, and premium acetates create striking designs. Celebrate individuality with frames that exude confidence and style.
A woman with glasses and a flower in her hair
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Dive into Etnia Barcelona's Underwater campaign, a surreal exploration of the ocean's depths. Discover a mystical AI-created world where vibrant flora, fauna, and mythical beings bring the beauty of the deep sea to life.
A man with a beard wearing maui jim sunglasses
By Rosendo C March 20, 2025
Discover Maui Jim sunglasses at Mountain View Optometry, featuring PolarizedPlus2® lens technology for superior glare protection, enhanced colors, and UV defense. Experience unmatched clarity and eye comfort with premium polarized lenses.
A man wearing sunglasses and a maui jim logo
By Rosendo C March 20, 2025
Maui Jim Sunglasses Spring-Summer 2025
Show More