How Do Myopia Control Lenses Work?

Myopia is a common vision problem, affecting an estimated 2.6 billion people worldwide. It typically begins in childhood and can worsen as the eye continues to grow during the teenage years. If left unchecked, myopia can lead to an increased risk of other eye problems, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.
 

What is Myopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error in the eye that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. This occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
 

The Importance of Myopia Management

Effective myopia management is crucial, as it can help slow the progression of the condition and reduce the risk of these serious complications. Myopia control strategies can significantly impact the long-term health of your eyes. By addressing myopia in its early stages, you can take proactive steps to maintain clear vision and protect your eyes as you age.
 

What is Orthokeratology and How Does it Work?

One innovative approach to myopia control is Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K. Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses during the night. Ortho-K lenses are designed to gently and temporarily flatten the central portion of the cornea while steepening the peripheral regions. This change in corneal shape helps focus light directly onto the retina, improving visual acuity.

Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight, typically for 6-8 hours. During this time, the lenses work to reshape the cornea, and the effects can last for the entire day, allowing you to see clearly without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. Over time, the corneal changes become more pronounced, and the visual improvements become more significant. This gradual process allows the eye to adapt to the new corneal shape, resulting in stable and comfortable vision.
 

Understanding MiSight Contact Lenses for Slowing Myopia Progression

Another effective myopia control solution is the use of MiSight contact lenses. These specialized lenses are designed to slow the progression of myopia in children and adolescents. MiSight lenses incorporate a dual-focus design, with a central zone for clear, sharp vision and a peripheral zone that creates a slight defocus. This peripheral defocus helps to slow the elongation of the eyeball, which is the primary driver of myopia progression.

Studies have shown that children who wear MiSight lenses experience a significant reduction in the rate of myopia progression compared to those who wear traditional single-vision lenses. This can help prevent or delay the development of higher levels of myopia, which are associated with a greater risk of vision-threatening complications.

MiSight lenses are designed for daily wear, providing clear vision and comfort throughout the day. They are also easy to care for and maintain, making them a practical solution for myopia management.
 

Navigating Myopia with the Help of JC Eyes

Effective myopia management is essential for preserving your vision and reducing the risk of long-term eye health complications. Orthokeratology and MiSight contact lenses are two innovative solutions that can help slow the progression of myopia, offering a proactive approach to vision care.

At JC Eyes, we are committed to providing comprehensive eye care solutions, including specialized myopia management lenses. We can help you or your child explore the best options for managing myopia and maintaining clear, healthy vision. Visit our office in Jersey City, New Jersey, or call (201) 801-3600 to schedule an appointment today.