The most common refractive error for eyes is myopia, also known as nearsightedness. When it comes to vision correction, many people opt for contact lenses. However, finding the ideal pair can be challenging due to the numerous options available.
One specialized type is the MiSight contact lens, designed especially for children with myopia. These daily-wear lenses help slow the progression of myopia, providing clear vision while limiting the intensity of their prescription over time.
MiSight contact lenses are specifically designed and FDA-approved for use in children with myopia to help slow the progression of the condition. They are not intended for adults. Adults with myopia should consult their eye care professional to explore other suitable options for vision correction.
Total Focus Family Optometry Centre is experienced in providing comprehensive eye exams for adults and children, personalized vision correction solutions, and a wide selection of eyewear to meet your entire family’s needs.
What is Myopia?
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a prevalent vision condition where nearby objects appear clear, but distant objects become blurry. It’s similar to being able to read a map up close but struggling to see things far away.
According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists, myopia occurs when the shape of the eye causes light rays to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This issue can stem from various factors, including genetics and environmental influences.
Myopia in Kids
Myopia affects approximately 30% of Canadians. Research indicates that the prevalence of myopia increases with age. The prevalence was found to be 6.0% in children aged 6 to 8 and 28.9% in children aged 11 to 13.
Nearsightedness often runs in families, so if you or your partner have myopia, it’s crucial to monitor your child’s vision as they grow. Regular eye checkups can help detect any changes in their eyesight early.
The Benefits of MiSight Contact Lenses
Kid-Friendly Contacts
MiSight lenses are easy and safe for children to use. They require no maintenance or cleaning and can be replaced if lost. These contact lenses are designed for comfortable all-day wear, allowing children to engage in their daily activities without discomfort.
Slow the Progression of Myopia
MiSight contact lenses do more than provide vision correction—they’re FDA-approved for slowing myopia progression. With a unique dual-focus design, these lenses help children maintain clear distance vision while addressing the underlying cause of myopia. This feature helps slow down the progression of nearsightedness in children who use them.
Reduced Eye Care Over Time
MiSight contact lenses offer benefits not only to myopic children but also to their parents. Children with myopia often need frequent eye exams to update their prescriptions. MiSight lenses can reduce the frequency of these visits and lower the risk of severe eye conditions like retinal detachment or glaucoma over time.
How MiSight Contact Lenses Work
MiSight contact lenses operate like traditional soft contact lenses but are uniquely designed to reshape the cornea’s outer layer, helping to reduce myopia progression. They are typically worn daily for 10-13 hours based on the child’s needs and are replaced each day. While MiSight lenses do not cure myopia, they can effectively slow its progression.
For children new to contact lenses, MiSight lenses are easy to insert and remove, making them a convenient option.
Do MiSight Contacts Really Work?
Clinical studies have demonstrated that MiSight contact lenses can slow the progression of myopia by up to 59%. This high success rate has made them a favoured choice among parents and eye care professionals.
![A smiling optometrist holds a contact lens with tweezers while a young child looks down at the lens.](https://20x20.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/What-Are-MiSight-Contact-Lenses-Supporting-1-1024x672.jpg)
Who Are MiSight Contact Lenses For?
MiSight contact lenses are specifically designed to help children with myopia. They are approved for use in children aged 8-12 with prescription strengths up to -6.00D.
These lenses are most effective when used before or during early adolescence, as this is when myopia is still developing. It is essential to consult with your eye doctor to determine if MiSight contact lenses are appropriate for your child and to ensure a proper fit.
Does MiSight Save Money?
MiSight contact lenses provide a cost-effective solution for parents aiming to slow the progression of myopia in their children. Compared to many surgical procedures designed to correct myopia, MiSight lenses are often a more affordable option.
In addition to their lower upfront costs, MiSight lenses can help reduce the long-term expenses associated with frequent eye exams and prescription updates that are typically necessary for children with progressing myopia. By potentially slowing myopia’s advancement, these lenses may decrease the likelihood of more severe vision problems later in life, which could incur significant medical costs.
Overall, MiSight contact lenses not only offer a financial advantage but also contribute to better long-term eye health for children.
Helping Your Child’s Vision
MiSight contact lenses can be an excellent solution for managing your child’s myopia. If your child has myopia, consult your eye doctor at Total Focus Optometry Centre to learn more about MiSight contact lenses. Schedule an appointment with our team today.