Is My Child Too Young (Or Too Old) To Start Myopia Control?

If your child has been diagnosed with nearsightedness, you may be wondering whether it’s the right time to start myopia control. Parents often ask: Is my child too young? Too old? Understanding the options and timing can make a big difference in protecting their vision now and in the future.

Understanding the Risks of High Myopia

Uncontrolled myopia can lead to high myopia, which significantly increases the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including:

• Retinal detachment

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

• Myopic maculopathy

These conditions can cause permanent vision loss. Myopia control helps reduce these risks by slowing progression while the eyes are still growing.

What Is Myopia Management?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is when distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. Myopia management, or myopia control, goes beyond prescribing standard glasses. Instead, it uses advanced treatments designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children and teens. Common methods include:

• Specialized contact lenses (Orthokeratology or dual focus soft contact lenses)

• Prescription eye drops such as low-dose atropine

• Lifestyle adjustments like increased outdoor time and reduced screen time

The goal is to reduce how quickly the eyes elongate as a child grows, lowering the risks associated with high levels of myopia later in life.

When Can Myopia Control Typically Start?

Myopia control treatments are most effective when started early. Children as young as 5 or 6 years old can be evaluated for certain options, particularly if they show signs of rapidly progressing myopia. Early intervention means the eyes are still developing, and slowing that progression can have the greatest long-term impact.

Factors That Influence Treatment

Several factors determine the right time to begin myopia control:

• Age of onset - The younger a child is when myopia begins, the faster it tends to progress.

• Rate of progression - Rapid changes in prescription may call for earlier treatment.

• Family history - Children with one or both parents who are nearsighted are more likely to develop higher levels of myopia.

• Lifestyle - Extensive screen time or limited outdoor play can accelerate progression.

Dr. Tsang will evaluate these factors during a comprehensive pediatric eye exam to recommend the best plan for your child.

The Importance of Regular Pediatric Eye Exams

Children don’t always recognize or complain about vision problems. That’s why annual eye exams are essential. These checkups allow your eye doctor to:

• Detect early signs of myopia

• Monitor prescription changes

• Provide timely interventions

• Educate families on prevention and lifestyle habits

Early detection and consistent monitoring are key to preventing high levels of nearsightedness.

Protect Your Child’s Vision with Dr. Terry Tsang Optometry, Inc

It’s never too early to ask about myopia control, and in most cases, it’s not too late either. The sooner myopia management begins, the greater the potential to protect your child’s long-term eye health. We will carefully evaluate your child’s vision needs and recommend a personalized plan to help safeguard their sight.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam with Dr. Terry Tsang Optometry, Inc. to learn more about myopia control options for your child. Visit our office in Irvine, California, or call (949) 776-0111 to book an appointment today.