Myopia Management in Santa Monica
When a child's nearsightedness keeps getting stronger, stronger glasses are only part of the answer. Myopia management looks at the progression itself.
What is myopia?
Myopia, or nearsightedness, makes distant objects look blurry while near objects stay clear. It usually happens when the eye grows longer than normal, so light focuses in front of the retina rather than on it.
Myopia often starts in childhood and can progress through the teenage years. Higher levels of myopia are associated with a greater lifetime risk of eye conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma and myopic macular degeneration, which is why many families want to address progression early.
Management options
After a thorough exam, your doctor will talk through the options that suit your child's eyes, age and routine.
- Orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses worn overnight
- Specialized soft contact lenses designed for myopia control
- Prescription eye drops when appropriate
- Specially designed spectacle lenses
- Lifestyle guidance on outdoor time, screens and near work
Monitoring progress
Myopia management is a long-term partnership. We schedule regular follow-ups to measure your child's prescription and eye health, and we adjust the plan if progression continues.
Everyday habits that help
Time outdoors in daylight, regular breaks from close work, and good lighting at home all support healthy young eyes. We are happy to share practical ideas that fit your family's routine.
Questions, answered
Does myopia management cure nearsightedness?
No treatment reverses myopia. The aim of management is to address how quickly it progresses, while keeping your child's vision clear and comfortable.
At what age should we start?
Management is usually considered as soon as myopia is found to be progressing in a child. Your doctor will help you decide when to begin.
Is myopia management only for children?
It is designed for young, growing eyes. Adults with stable myopia have many options for clear vision, including glasses, contacts and refractive surgery.