Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a growing problem among children. If your child has myopia, you may be concerned about the condition worsening with age. Although myopia can be corrected through the use of prescription glasses, research has shown that certain types of contacts may be able to slow the progression of myopia. By discussing these eye care options with our optometrist at Optics Soho, you can get a better idea of how myopia control contacts work to preserve vision. We serve residents of Tampa, Riverview, Riverview, and the surrounding communities.
Myopia Control Contacts
Myopia control therapeutic contact lenses have a dual purpose: they correct vision problems caused by myopia and help control its progression. There are two types of myopia control contacts: orthokeratology (ortho-K) lenses and multifocal soft lenses.
Ortho-K Lenses
Ortho-K lenses are specialized contacts that are worn only at night. These lenses are designed to reshape the cornea while sleeping. When the person wearing Ortho-K lenses wakes up, their vision will be clear. Depending on the severity of your or your child’s condition, it may take a while optimal vision can be achieved by wearing Ortho-K lenses. Consider wearing regular soft contact lenses during the day until the full benefits of Ortho-K lenses can be experienced. Vision changes wrought by Ortho-K lenses aren’t permanent. You or your child will need to wear the contacts nightly to maintain visual clarity during the day. In addition to improving eyesight, Ortho-K lenses also significantly slow the progression of myopia.
Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses (MF SCL)
MF SCL lenses are worn during the day. Originally, they were created to help people with presbyopia, which is a condition that affects both near and distance vision. These lenses come with circular zones of diverse prescriptions to correct focusing problems close up and at a distance. Studies show that wearing center-distance MF SCLs during the day can help reduce the progression of myopia. Daily use of these specialized contacts will correct your or your child’s vision while also preventing the condition from worsening. It’s important to talk to your eye doctor to see what treatment options will work best for you.
Contact Our Optometrist for Eye Care in Tampa, Riverview, and Riverview
At Optics Soho, we have been providing residents of Tampa, Riverview, and Riverview with reliable eye care services for many years. Call us today for more information or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor.
