Spectacles
These are specially designed spectacles. They look the same as traditional spectacles but work by changing the focus in the peripheral vision.
Sometimes known as short-sightedness, myopia is the ability to see nearby objects clearly while struggling to see those farther away. Usually beginning in childhood and progressively worsening as the eye grows, myopia is thought to affect around a third of people in the UK. By 2050, it’s estimated that 5 billion people—half the global population—could be affected by short-sightedness.
Traditionally, myopia has been corrected with glasses or contact lenses (or both). However, modern advancements now offer treatments that aim to slow down the progression of myopia during childhood, known as Myopia Management.
If your child is myopic, it’s typically because their eye is slightly longer than usual (from front to back), causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. Successful myopia management can help reduce the severity of myopia as your child grows. This means they may rely less on spectacles, with a lower prescription that results in thinner, lighter lenses.
There are three main options for myopia management, and choosing the right one depends on your child’s needs and lifestyle. Spectacles and soft contact lenses can be used together as a combined treatment—if soft lenses are the primary option, having a backup pair of myopia management spectacles is recommended. Orthokeratology (OrthoK) is a standalone treatment that reshapes the cornea overnight and, while it can technically be combined with atropine drops, we do not offer that combination.
It’s also important to be aware of the long-term health risks of high myopia (typically -6.00 diopters and above). Higher levels of myopia increase the risk of conditions such as glaucoma, retinal tears or detachments, and myopic maculopathy. While we don’t want to cause unnecessary concern, sharing this information ensures patients and their families can make informed decisions about managing myopia effectively.
Our optometrists are here to guide you through your options and help select the best treatment for your child’s unique needs.
Orthokeratology Contact Lenses
These are specially designed rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contact lenses. Worn overnight, the lenses help to alter the shape of the cornea whilst you sleep.
Soft Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
These are specially designed contact lenses which are worn in a similar way to standard disposable contact lenses. Worn during the day, the lenses change the focus of light in the peripheral vision.
Ready to start your myopia management journey?
Book a consultation with Brownbills today