Myopia Control

​​​​​​​At Chelsea Vision Associates, we provide comprehensive pediatric eye care, including advanced myopia management, for families in Chelsea and beyond. As myopia, or nearsightedness, becomes increasingly common among children at younger ages, it is vital for parents to understand what myopia is, its impact on learning, and how early detection and proactive management can help protect your child’s long-term vision and academic success.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. This occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia often develops during childhood and can progress as children grow.

Clear vision is essential for children’s learning and academic performance. Students with undiagnosed or unmanaged myopia may struggle to see the board, participate in class, or engage in extracurricular activities. This can lead to frustration, reduced confidence, and even falling behind academically. Addressing myopia early helps set children up for success both in and out of the classroom.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection is key to managing myopia and preventing its progression. Early and regular pediatric eye exams allow our optometrist to monitor your child’s vision, identify any changes, and recommend the most appropriate treatment options. Many vision problems can go unnoticed by parents, making comprehensive eye exams an essential part of your child’s healthcare routine.

What Is Myopia Management and Why Is It Important?

Myopia management goes beyond correcting blurry vision with glasses or standard contact lenses. The goal is to slow the progression of myopia, which can help reduce the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and myopic maculopathy. By proactively managing myopia, we can protect your child’s vision now and in the future.

Myopia Management Treatment Options

At Chelsea Vision Associates, we offer several evidence-based myopia management options:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specially designed overnight contact lenses gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps. This non-surgical treatment provides clear vision during the day and has been clinically proven to help slow the progression of myopia in children.

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine drops are applied nightly and have been shown in studies to effectively slow myopia progression in children, with minimal side effects. This treatment is safe, easy to use, and well-tolerated by most children.
  
  

Dr. Gross and our team will work closely with you to determine the best approach for your child’s unique needs. We may also recommend lifestyle strategies such as reducing screen time and encouraging more outdoor activities.

Supporting Families in the Chelsea Community and Beyond

Chelsea Vision Associates is proud to be a trusted resource for families in Chelsea and the surrounding areas. We’re committed to providing personalized, compassionate care and the latest advancements in myopia management. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to see clearly and thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

If you’re concerned about your child’s vision or would like to learn more about myopia management, schedule a pediatric eye exam with Chelsea Vision Associates today