A Parent’s Guide to Myopia Management Options

Hearing that your child is nearsighted can raise a lot of questions - and maybe a few concerns. Myopia is increasingly common in children, and without proper management, it often continues to worsen as they grow. At Ridgeview Eye Care, we believe informed parents make confident decisions. Below is a clear overview of the most effective myopia management options available today - and how we help determine which is right for your child.

What Is Myopia Management?

Myopia management refers to evidence-based treatments designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. While glasses and contact lenses correct vision, myopia management focuses on controlling how quickly myopia worsens as your child grows.

Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)

Ortho-K uses specially designed rigid contact lenses worn overnight. While your child sleeps, the lenses gently reshape the cornea so they can see clearly during the day - without glasses or contacts.

Benefits of Ortho-K:

• Clear daytime vision without corrective lenses
• Proven to slow myopia progression
• Great for active kids and athletes

Ortho-K is most effective for children with mild to moderate myopia and families comfortable with nighttime lens care.

Soft Multifocal Contact Lenses

These daily-wear contact lenses look similar to standard soft contacts but are designed with special focusing zones that help slow eye growth.

Why parents choose this option:

• Worn during the day like regular contacts
• Easy transition for kids already comfortable with contact lenses
• Effective for many school-age children and teens

This option works well for kids who want a familiar routine while still benefiting from myopia control.

Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine drops are applied once daily, usually before bedtime. They don’t correct vision, but they help slow the progression of myopia over time.

Key advantages:

• Non-invasive and easy to use
• Minimal side effects at low concentrations
• Can be combined with glasses or contact lenses

This is often a good choice for younger children or families looking for a simple, low-maintenance option.

Essilor Stellest Lenses

One of the newest advancements in myopia management is Essilor Stellest lenses, which were recently FDA-approved in the United States. These prescription eyeglass lenses are specifically designed to slow myopia progression while providing clear vision.

Why Stellest lenses are exciting:

• FDA-approved for myopia management in the U.S.
• Look like regular glasses - no contacts required
• Ideal for children who prefer or need to wear glasses

This option is especially appealing for younger children or those not ready for contact lenses.

Which Myopia Management Option Is Right for Your Child?

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to myopia management. The most effective treatment for your child depends on several individual factors, including their age, the degree of nearsightedness, how quickly their myopia is progressing, and their daily activities.

Equally important is your child’s comfort level with different treatment options, such as contact lenses or eye drops. Some children thrive with contact lens–based solutions, while others do better with glasses or a simpler at-home routine.

At Ridgeview Eye Care, every myopia management plan starts with a comprehensive eye exam. We take the time to fully assess your child’s vision and eye health, then recommend a personalized treatment plan designed to fit their needs, lifestyle, and long-term visual goals.

Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Child’s Vision

With today’s advanced myopia management options, parents have real tools to help protect their child’s vision now and in the future. Early intervention can make a meaningful difference - and the right plan can fit seamlessly into your child’s daily life.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Ridgeview Eye Care to learn more about your child’s options and create a personalized myopia management plan designed to support your child’s long-term eye health. Contact our office in Olathe or Lenexa, Kansas, by calling (913) 261-8327 to book an appointment.