Myopia Control
Preventing and Controlling Myopia (Nearsightedness)
To schedule an appointment, please call: (212) 719-4000
At the turn of the 20th century, just 10 to 14 percent of Americans were nearsighted. Today, the figure is close to 40 percent. Myopic changes used to stop by age 16. Today, optometrists find people becoming myopic in their mid to late 30's. Vision scientists have found that myopia seems to be triggered by prolonged, intense near vision work. It's often called "environmental myopia." They have also proven several clinical approaches to prevent, reduce or limit myopic changes. What else have we learned about the triggers for myopia?
- In one major study, monkeys were confined to small cages. Over several months, the monkeys became nearsighted, a visual condition that is extremely rare in nature.
- In Peru, volunteer optometrists needed just 23 pairs of glasses for myopia, but 1700 pairs of glasses were required for far-sightedness or astigmatism.
- In Japan, 93 percent of graduate school students have myopia and/or other severe vision deterioration.
- In Pt. Barrow, Alaska, researchers found just one adult who was nearsighted. But among the younger people raised after compulsory education was introduced, nearly 60 percent were nearsighted.
YES, THERE ARE WAYS TO PREVENT OR CONTROL VISION LOSS TO NEARSIGHTEDNESS.
For patients with mild to moderate myopia who want to reduce their dependence on eyeglasses, Town Optical offers alternative treatments. These include orthokeratology (also known as corneal shaping or corneal refractive therapy), atropine therapy and special soft multifocal contacts.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) consists of reshaping the cornea of the eye by wearing corrective contact lenses overnight, while you are sleeping. The lenses gently shape the cornea to provide a more favorable, often flatter surface for refracting light. The results can be dramatic, and many OrthoK patients can achieve vision acuity of 20/40 or better in a short time. Ortho-K can also be effectively used in younger patients, who may not be comfortable wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses during the day.
Visioneering Technologies, Inc.
Any Questions? Give us a call!
(212) 719-4000
(212) 719-4000