What’s the Most Effective Myopia Control Method? Exploring All of the Options

If you’re a parent in La Jolla, you may have noticed your child squinting at the whiteboard or struggling to see the TV from the couch. These early signs of myopia are becoming more common in children, often progressing as they grow.  At See Me Optometry, we understand the concerns of local families when it comes to their child’s vision. We offer personalized myopia management strategies tailored to your child’s unique needs.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia is a vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. It happens when the eyeball grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. While glasses and contact lenses can correct blurry vision, they don’t slow myopia progression.

For children in school, vision plays a huge role in academic success. Myopia can make it difficult to see the board, follow along in class, or even participate in sports. This can lead to frustration, lower confidence, and missed learning opportunities.

What Is Myopia Management and Why Is It Important?

Myopia management goes beyond vision correction—it’s about slowing the progression of nearsightedness to help protect your child’s long-term eye health. Children with high myopia are at a greater risk of developing eye conditions such as:

• Retinal detachment – When the retina pulls away from the back of the eye, leading to vision loss.

• Glaucoma – A condition that damages the optic nerve, often due to increased eye pressure.

• Myopic maculopathy – A form of macular degeneration linked to high myopia.

By addressing myopia early, we can reduce these risks and give children clearer, healthier vision for years to come.

Effective Myopia Management Strategies

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to myopia control. Dr. Tavakoli works with families in La Jolla and surrounding areas to find the best solution for each child. Here are some of the most effective options:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-K lenses are specially designed, rigid contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. By morning, your child can wake up with clear vision—no glasses or contacts needed during the day. This is a great option for active kids and those involved in sports.

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine eye drops are used before bedtime to slow eye growth and reduce myopia progression. This treatment is often recommended for younger children and can be used alongside other myopia control methods.

• Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses: Multifocal contacts, worn during the day, help slow myopia progression while providing clear vision at all distances. These lenses are a great choice for older children and teens who prefer a daytime solution.

Every child’s eyes are different, which is why a personalized approach is key. At See Me Optometry, we take the time to assess your child’s vision, discuss your family’s lifestyle, and create a customized myopia management plan that works best.

Protect Your Child’s Vision at See Me Optometry Today

If you’re concerned about your child’s myopia, now is the time to take action. Early intervention can make all the difference in preserving their long-term eye health. 

Schedule a pediatric eye exam with See Me Optometry to explore the best myopia control options for your child. Visit our office in La Jolla, California, or call (858) 800-2313 to book an appointment today.