Understanding What Lenses Are Used for Myopia Management
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common refractive condition where distant objects appear blurry while near vision remains clear. The condition occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea has too much curvature, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. Myopia has become increasingly common worldwide, and its progression is associated with a higher risk of eye diseases later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration. Because of these risks, eye care professionals now emphasize not only correcting myopia for clear vision but also actively managing its progression. Specialized lenses play a central role in myopia management, and different designs have been developed to address both vision correction and slowing eye growth.
Single Vision Lenses and Their Limitations
Traditional single vision glasses or contact lenses correct myopia by refocusing light directly onto the retina. While these lenses provide clear vision, they do not slow the progression of myopia. In fact, some studies suggest that standard correction may contribute to progression in certain patients by leaving peripheral retinal areas defocused. As a result, single vision lenses are generally used for clear vision but are not considered an effective strategy for myopia control.
Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses
Multifocal soft contact lenses are one of the most widely studied and effective lens options for myopia management. These lenses contain different optical zones that provide clear central vision while creating controlled defocus in the peripheral retina. The central zone corrects distance vision, while the surrounding zones create peripheral myopic defocus. This design signals the eye to slow down elongation, which is the main driver of myopia progression. Studies have shown that multifocal lenses can reduce the rate of myopia progression in children by a significant percentage compared with single vision lenses. They are typically worn during the day and replaced either daily or monthly depending on the lens type.
Orthokeratology Lenses
Orthokeratology, also known as ortho-k, uses specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that are worn overnight. These lenses temporarily reshape the cornea while the patient sleeps, allowing clear unaided vision during the day without wearing lenses or glasses. In addition to correcting vision, orthokeratology has been shown to slow myopia progression by altering peripheral defocus on the retina. The corneal reshaping effect is reversible, so the lenses must be worn regularly to maintain both clear vision and myopia control benefits. Orthokeratology is considered an effective and safe option when properly monitored by an eye care professional.
Spectacle Lenses Designed for Myopia Control
New designs of spectacle lenses have also been developed specifically for myopia management. These include lenses with peripheral defocus or lenses that incorporate multiple segments to create controlled blur in the peripheral retina while maintaining clear central vision. Clinical studies indicate that these lenses can slow eye growth and reduce myopia progression in children. Spectacle-based myopia control options are particularly beneficial for children who are not ready for contact lenses or whose parents prefer a non-contact lens approach.
Comparison of Lens Options
Each type of myopia management lens has advantages and considerations. Multifocal soft contact lenses are convenient and familiar for patients who already use soft lenses. Orthokeratology provides the benefit of lens-free daytime vision, which can be appealing for children involved in sports or outdoor activities, but it requires consistent overnight wear and careful hygiene. Myopia control spectacle lenses are easy to use and low risk but may not offer the same degree of control as contact lens-based approaches. The choice of lens depends on the child’s age, lifestyle, degree of myopia, and parental preference, as well as guidance from an eye care professional.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Since myopia tends to progress most rapidly during childhood, early detection and intervention are important. Regular eye exams allow timely monitoring and help determine when myopia management lenses should be prescribed. The goal is not only to provide clear vision but also to slow eye growth and reduce the long-term risk of sight-threatening complications.