Myopia control

Singapore has one of the highest prevalence of myopia, up to 80% of the population is myopic at a certain point. Up to 65% of children before the age of 12 are myopic. The worst part is the rate of progression is staggering. We see an average increase of about 75 degrees per annum. If we do the math, multiplying the rate of increase with the number of years left till the child turns 18 where myopia stabilizes, the result is unfortunately irreversible. In addition, there is also the risk of other retinal problems especially once the child crosses -6.00 dioptres. Orthokeratology treatment not only gives these children the freedom to experience what clear vision is like without relying on spectacles and contact lenses during the day, it has also been documented in the medical literature by several non-biased studies that it indeed retards myopia progression. We have treated many children and have seen great success controlling our patients’ myopia. The numbers speak for themselves.

However, there are risks involved as with any contact lens wear and therefore it is that crucial to go to the right Orthokeratologist who will take great care of your childrens’ eyes. The corneal molds are so important because this ensures a healthy cornea and facilitates myopia retardation.

• Genetics: Genetics plays a big role. If your parents are nearsighted, you will probably be nearsighted too.
• Behaviour: Kids are glued to their smart phone, hand games and computers. They get very little outdoor time. This near visual demand is contributing to increasing myopia.
• Glasses and Soft Lenses: The nature of how a standard spectacle or standard soft lens focuses light on the retina, actually causes the eye to lengthen (increase their myopia). Read more.
• Eye Muscle Control: Some kids have eye muscles that put stress on their vision. This can contribute to worsening myopia.

Behavior Change: It starts with being educated about the right posture, lighting, distance when doing near work and changing of bad reading habits. Titus will educate you on what is the right way when dealing with your near work.

OrthoK lenses are the best for controlling myopia. We also fit myopia controlling soft lenses. These are different than standard soft lenses. They don’t control as well as orthoK lenses, but they are much better than standard soft lenses or standard glasses. We also fit special spectacle lenses such as bifocals and myovision (a type of lens that mimics the effects of Orthokeratology) to help control progression.