Evidence in the scientific literature suggests that some novel contact lens designs and eye drops may slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. However, no treatment is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this purpose, with the exception of MiSight contact lenses. All contact lenses used in the Myopia Control Clinic at Los Gatos Eye Care have been approved by the FDA, just not specifically to slow the progression of nearsightedness. 1% atropine eye drops are approved by the FDA for the treatment of amblyopia and strabismus, however lower concentrations of atropine for myopia retardation are still considered off-label use. There are three ways to potentially slow the progression of nearsightedness in children: corneal reshaping, bifocal contact lenses and/or atropine eye drops. Each treatment has its own risks and our doctors can discuss options with you and your child.
MiSight contact lenses from CooperVision are specifically designed for myopia control and FDA approved to slow the progression of myopia in children ages 8-12 at the initiation of treatment
These medicated eye drops can be used to dilate the eye's pupils during an eye exam, but have also been proven to reduce myopia progression. A very low dose of this eye drop is placed in the lower eyelid every day. Side effects may include blurry vision or light sensitivity. You will still need to wear regular glasses or contact lenses
These medicated eye drops can be used to dilate the eye's pupils during an eye exam, but have also been proven to reduce myopia progression. A very low dose of this eye drop is placed in the lower eyelid every day. Side effects may include blurry vision or light sensitivity. You will still need to wear regular glasses or contact lenses during the day, but the eye drops can assist in slowing down the worsening of myopia
Corneal Reshaping Therapy (CRT) is a non-surgical vision correction alternative. CRT is a therapeutic process which reshapes (flattens) the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, using reverse geometry contact lenses. This flattening of the cornea reduces myopia. The results are not permanent but, for most patients, it lasts all day
Corneal Reshaping Therapy (CRT) is a non-surgical vision correction alternative. CRT is a therapeutic process which reshapes (flattens) the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, using reverse geometry contact lenses. This flattening of the cornea reduces myopia. The results are not permanent but, for most patients, it lasts all day. The CRT lenses need to be worn as a "retainer" for limited periods of time (they are usually worn while sleeping) to maintain the effect
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