When a child’s nearsightedness keeps getting stronger each year, parents often ask what else can be done besides stronger glasses. Myopia control treatments are designed to slow how quickly myopia progresses while the eyes are still growing. Here’s an overview of the options St. Lucie Family Eye Care offers, and how to take a low-pressure first step.
Why Slowing Myopia Matters
Myopia often starts in the school years and can progress as kids grow. Higher levels of myopia later in life are linked to a greater risk of eye problems such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration. Slowing progression won’t reverse existing myopia, but it can help reduce how strong the prescription becomes over time.
Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)
Ortho-K lenses are custom-fitted contact lenses worn overnight. They gently reshape the front of the eye so many children can see clearly during the day without glasses or daytime contacts. Ortho-K is also used as a myopia control option. Fit and follow-up visits are important for comfort and eye health.
MiSight® 1 Day
MiSight® 1 day is a daily disposable soft contact lens designed for myopia control. It is FDA-approved to slow the progression of myopia in children who begin wearing it between ages 8 and 12. Daily disposables mean no cleaning solution—fresh lenses each day.
Stellest® Eyeglass Lenses
Essilor® Stellest® lenses are eyeglass lenses designed to help slow myopia progression. They can be a good fit for children who prefer glasses or aren’t ready for contact lenses. Stellest lenses are FDA-authorized for children who are 6 to 12 when they start.
Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops
Low-dose atropine is a prescription eye drop used at bedtime. In the U.S., low-dose atropine for myopia control is prescribed off-label, because no low-dose atropine drop is FDA-approved for this purpose yet. Your optometrist will discuss whether this option fits your child and how follow-up works.
Which Option Is Right?
Age, prescription strength, hobbies, sports, and comfort all matter. Some families choose glasses-based options first; others prefer contacts or Ortho-K. We’ll explain the pros and cons in plain language after a thorough eye exam. Learn more on our Myopia Control page and our Pediatric Eye Exams page.
Free Virtual Myopia Control Consultation
Parents of children ages 5–12 can start with a free virtual myopia control consultation by video or phone. It’s a relaxed way to ask questions before deciding anything. Choose “Free Myopia control consultation for children (virtual call)” when you request an appointment.
Free Kids Vision Screening (Ages 5–17)
Not sure whether your child’s distance vision is slipping? Our Free Kids Vision Screening for ages 5–17 is a quick, no-cost check that can flag possible problems. A screening isn’t a full exam—if we see something that needs a closer look, we’ll recommend next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will myopia control reverse my child's prescription?
No. These treatments aim to slow progression. Your child will still need clear vision correction with glasses, contacts, or Ortho-K.
Which option is best?
It depends on age, prescription, lifestyle, and comfort. After an exam, we’ll recommend options—Ortho-K, MiSight 1 day, Stellest lenses, and/or low-dose atropine (off-label)—that fit your child.
Is there a free way to start the conversation?
Yes. Parents of children ages 5–12 can book a free virtual myopia control consultation by video or phone when requesting an appointment.
Talk With Our Port St. Lucie Team
Our doctors—Dr. Vasuki Anandan, Dr. Tanya Plante, Dr. Raj Setty, and Dr. Alyssa Mastriano—are here to help. Call or Text 772-873-0037 (text us), or request an appointment online.
St. Lucie Family Eye Care · 702 SW Port St. Lucie Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953 · Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–5:30pm · Call or Text 772-873-0037 (text us) · Text us