Myopia Control
in Burlington, Ontario
Understanding Myopia
Myopia most commonly develops when the eye grows too long from front to back, a measurement called axial length. Greater eye elongation and higher levels of myopia are associated with an increased risk of eye conditions, including retinal detachment, myopic maculopathy, cataracts and glaucoma.
Myopia often begins in childhood and can progress through the teenage years and sometimes into adulthood. Although there is currently no cure, treatments are available to help slow its progression.
At Blink Better, we help families understand their child’s vision and explore appropriate myopia management options. These may include specialized glasses or contact lenses, alongside healthy daily habits. Spending time outdoors and taking regular breaks from close-up activities support healthy visual routines, with outdoor time particularly helpful in reducing the risk of myopia developing.
While there is no way to completely stop or reverse myopia progression, there are various treatment options to slow the rate of progression.
How We Treat Myopia
Soft Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
There are soft, daily disposable contact lenses that correct your child’s refractive error and have been clinically proven to slow the progression of myopia in age-appropriate children. At Blink Better we offer these speciality contact lens options.
Lenses For Glasses
At Blink Better, we offer the Stellest myopia management lens design. The spectacles are designed for full-time wear and have been proven to slow the progression of myopia.
Atropine Eye Drops
Atropine is a prescription eye drop that temporarily dilates the pupil and limits accommodation. Low doses of atropine have been shown to help reduce the progression of myopia. The drop is compounded at a local pharmacy and one drop is instilled in each eye once per day.
How to Insert/Remove Contact Lenses
How Stellest Lenses Work
Why You Should Manage Myopia
1 in 2
People worldwide may be myopic by 2050.
30-60%
Reported slowing of myopia across a variety of evidence-based approaches. Although results can vary.
Frequently asked questions
Answers about Myopia Control at Blink Better
Can myopia be cured or reversed?
Currently, myopia management is intended to slow the worsening of nearsightedness rather than eliminate it. Vision correction is still necessary, but appropriate treatment may help reduce how quickly a child’s prescription changes over time.
Is myopia management effective?
Research supports several myopia management approaches, including specialized spectacle lenses, certain contact lenses, overnight Ortho-K lenses, and low-dose atropine. These treatments can help slow myopia progression, although results differ between individuals. Dr Goyal will monitor your child’s response and make adjustments when needed.
What does myopia management involve?
Myopia management focuses on helping slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. Treatment may include specially designed glasses, contact lenses, overnight Ortho-K lenses, or low-dose atropine eye drops. The goal is to support clear vision while reducing the rate at which myopia progresses.
How does myopia management compare with standard glasses?
Regular glasses and contact lenses help children see distant objects clearly, but they do not specifically target the progression of myopia. Myopia management uses specialized treatments designed to correct vision and help slow changes in the eyes as children grow.
When is the best time to begin myopia management?
Myopia often progresses during childhood and adolescence, making early assessment important. Starting treatment at an appropriate time may help manage its progression. Dr Goyal will evaluate your child’s vision and eye health to determine whether treatment is suitable.
How do I know which treatment is best for my child?
The most suitable treatment depends on several factors, including your child’s age, prescription, eye health, daily activities, and ability to follow the treatment routine. Dr Goyal will assess these needs, recommend an individualized approach, and monitor progress through follow-up appointments.
What is the youngest age for myopia management?
Myopia commonly develops during the school years and may continue progressing through adolescence. Children who have been diagnosed with myopia, particularly those with a family history of nearsightedness, may benefit from an early assessment. Dr Goyal can determine the appropriate time to consider treatment based on your child’s individual needs.
Will OHIP or private insurance pay for myopia management?
In Ontario, eligible children and young people up to age 19 are covered by OHIP for an annual eye examination. However, specialized myopia management products and treatments are generally not covered by OHIP. Some private or employer-sponsored insurance plans may cover part of the cost. Dr Goyal’s team can help explain the anticipated expenses and any applicable insurance benefits before treatment begins.
What should I expect to pay for myopia management?
Treatment costs vary depending on the recommended method, the products required, and the frequency of monitoring appointments. After assessing your child’s eyes, Dr Goyal can recommend an appropriate treatment plan. The team will then explain the associated costs so you can make an informed decision before proceeding.