Understand
Why does myopia progress?
In most children with myopia, the eye grows too long relative to its optical power. The image of a distant object is then focused in front of the retina, making distance vision blurred. Eye growth is influenced by several genetic and environmental factors.
Progression is monitored through refraction — the prescription expressed in dioptres — and, where possible, through axial length. This second measurement directly tracks elongation of the eye.
Key indicators
Which factors require attention?
- myopia beginning at a young age;
- one or both parents having myopia;
- rapid progression at previous check-ups;
- limited time outdoors or prolonged activities at a very short working distance;
- axial length and how it changes relative to age.
Higher myopia increases the lifetime risk of certain retinal complications, myopic maculopathy, glaucoma or cataract. The aim is not to cause alarm, but to reduce future exposure to these risks as much as possible.
Current research aims to slow eye elongation. Response is individual: the average results of a study do not predict exactly how one particular child will respond.
PointMyopie!
A comprehensive risk assessment
The PointMyopie! consultation, priced at €55, brings together the information needed to understand the child’s profile and discuss options with their family.
- History.Age at onset, changes in prescriptions, family history, general health and current treatments.
- Visual habits.Time outdoors, screens, reading, and the distance and duration of near activities.
- Measurements.Visual acuity, refraction, binocular vision, ocular surface, topography if necessary, and axial length when indicated.
- Shared plan.Explanation of the level of risk, available options, their practical requirements and the follow-up schedule.
An ophthalmological examination may still be necessary depending on age, medical circumstances and observed signs. The optometric assessment forms part of a coordinated care pathway.
Options
Which strategies may be proposed?
The choice is not based on a single solution. It may combine beneficial visual habits with optical correction specifically designed for progressive myopia.
Lifestyle measures
Encourage daily time outdoors, avoid very short reading distances, take breaks during prolonged near work and maintain good lighting. These measures complement suitable correction but do not replace treatment when risk is high.
Optical solutions
- myopia-control spectacle lenses;
- defocus or multifocal soft contact lenses;
- orthokeratology with bespoke lenses worn overnight.
Medication
Low-dose atropine may be discussed in certain situations. Its prescription, monitoring and treatment coordination are the responsibility of the ophthalmologist.
Over time
Follow-up is part of the treatment
Regular check-ups assess vision, tolerance, adherence, refraction and axial length. Their frequency is personalised, often around every six months for progressive myopia.
If progression remains significant or the solution is poorly tolerated, the plan may be adjusted, changed or coordinated with the ophthalmologist. Stopping a treatment is also monitored.
Flashes of light, the sudden appearance of many floaters, a curtain or shadow in the field of vision, or a sudden reduction in vision require urgent ophthalmological assessment.
