Myopia-often called nearsightedness-is becoming increasingly common in children, and for many families, the biggest concern is whether it will continue to worsen over time. “Progressive myopia” refers to nearsightedness that steadily increases during childhood and adolescence. Early identification and treatment are essential, because higher levels of myopia raise the lifetime risk of retinal detachment, glaucoma, myopic macular degeneration, and other sight-threatening conditions.
Why Myopia Progresses
The primary cause of progressive myopia is an abnormal elongation of the eye. When the eye grows too long from front to back, light no longer focuses sharply on the retina, leading to blurred distance vision. This elongation tends to accelerate during a child’s growth years, especially between ages 6 and 14.
Several factors contribute to this process:
Genetics: If one parent is nearsighted, a child has about a 30% chance of developing myopia. If both parents are myopic, the risk can exceed 50%. Genetics do not determine everything, but they strongly influence who is more likely to experience progression.
Environment and lifestyle: Children today spend more time on screens and less time outdoors. Strong evidence shows that increased near work and reduced natural light exposure play important roles in triggering and speeding up eye growth.
Age of onset: The younger a child is when myopia begins, the more years it has to progress.
How Quickly Does Myopia Progress?
Progression usually occurs gradually over many years, with most changes happening in school-aged children and teens. Some children may increase by -0.50 to -1.00 diopters per year if untreated, while others progress more slowly. Because every child is different, regular eye exams-typically every 6-12 months—are essential to monitor changes and adjust the treatment plan.
Evidence-Based Treatments That Can Slow Myopia
Today we can do much more than simply update the glasses prescription. Several scientifically supported options can significantly reduce the rate of eye growth, helping protect a child’s vision long-term.
• Low-Dose Atropine Drops
Atropine eye drops in very low concentrations (commonly 0.01-0.05%) have been shown to slow myopia progression by 30-60% in many children. These drops are used once nightly and have minimal side effects at low doses. They do not reverse existing myopia but help reduce the speed of future changes.
• Myopia-Control Contact Lenses
Certain soft contact lenses-designed specifically for myopia management-can slow progression by creating a peripheral defocus pattern that signals the eye to limit its growth. These lenses are worn during the day like standard contacts but have a unique optical design that helps protect long-term eye health.
• Stellest™ Lenses
Essilor’s Stellest lenses are innovative eyeglass lenses clinically proven to slow myopia progression by up to 67% when worn consistently. They use H.A.L.T. technology (Highly Aspherical Lenslet Target) to create a ring of peripheral focus cues that reduce abnormal eye growth. Stellest lenses are a great option for younger children who are not ready for contact lenses.
Our Approach
Our practice offers a personalized myopia-control program that tailors treatment to each child’s age, lifestyle, prescription, and risk factors. If your child’s prescription is changing quickly—or if myopia runs in your family—we encourage you to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. With early intervention, we can help protect your child’s vision today and for the future.-