If you've just been told your child's myopia has increased again at their annual eye test, you're not alone. Myopia progression — where a child's prescription gets stronger year after year — affects a large proportion of Australian children, particularly those spending more time on screens and less time outdoors. The important thing to know: myopia progression is not inevitable, and it can be significantly slowed.
Why Does Myopia Progress?
Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows slightly too long. In children, the eye is still growing, so myopia can worsen with each passing year until growth stabilises in the late teens or early twenties. Key drivers of progression include:
- Extended near work (reading, screen use) without adequate breaks
- Insufficient outdoor time — bright outdoor light inhibits eye growth
- Genetic predisposition — having two myopic parents increases risk significantly
- Progression is typically fastest between ages 8–14
High myopia (above −6.00 dioptres) is not just a prescription issue — it substantially increases the lifetime risk of retinal detachment, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts. This is why managing progression matters beyond just needing stronger glasses.
Evidence-Based Myopia Control Treatments
At Prime Optometrists Auburn, we offer a range of clinically proven myopia control treatments:
MiSight Daily Contact Lenses
The only FDA-approved contact lens specifically for myopia control in children aged 8–15. Clinical trials show an average 59% reduction in myopia progression. Children adapt to them quickly and most find them more comfortable than glasses for sport and outdoor activities.
Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops
Nightly application of 0.01–0.05% atropine drops is well-supported by clinical evidence. At low concentrations, side effects are minimal and the treatment is easily combined with glasses or contact lenses. Particularly effective for rapidly progressing myopia.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Specially designed rigid lenses worn overnight that gently reshape the cornea while sleeping. Your child wakes up with clear vision all day without glasses or contacts, while simultaneously slowing myopia progression. A popular choice for active children and teenagers.
Myopia Control Spectacle Lenses
Lenses such as Stellest and MyoSmart use peripheral defocus technology to slow eye growth while providing normal clear vision. An excellent first step for younger children not yet ready for contacts.
Lifestyle Recommendations
- 90+ minutes outdoors daily — the single most evidence-backed preventive measure
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule for screen breaks
- Hold devices and books at arm's length
- Annual eye tests — or every 6 months once a myopia control program is underway
If your child's prescription has changed by more than −0.50 dioptres in the past year, it is worth discussing myopia control at your next appointment. Book online or call (02) 9761 0005. We are at 43 Auburn Road, Auburn NSW 2144.