Myopia-control spectacle lenses
Specially designed glasses lenses that correct vision while aiming to slow how fast the eye grows. A simple starting point for many families.
Myopia management
When nearsightedness keeps changing.
If your child needs a stronger prescription every year, you're not imagining it. Myopia often progresses while children grow, and there are options that may help slow it down.
Understanding myopia
What's happening inside the eye.
Myopia, or nearsightedness, means far-away things look blurry. In children it usually happens because the eye grows too long, and it tends to get worse as the eye keeps growing.
Correcting the blur with glasses matters, but slowing progression matters too. Higher levels of myopia are linked to a greater risk of eye problems later in life, including retinal problems. That's why the goal of myopia management is to keep it from getting worse faster than it needs to.
Options we may discuss
Approaches that may help slow myopia.
Myopia-control soft contact lenses
Daily soft lenses with a special optical design, worn during the day like regular contacts. Suitable for children ready to handle lenses with a parent's help.
Orthokeratology (ortho-k)
Custom rigid lenses worn while sleeping that gently reshape the front of the eye, so children may see clearly during the day without glasses. Requires careful hygiene and follow-up.
Low-dose atropine
Low-concentration atropine drops, used at bedtime, have been studied to slow myopia progression in children. We'll talk through whether drops make sense for your child.
No single option is right for every child, and results vary. Dr. Hartman will recommend options only after an exam, based on your child's age, prescription, eyes and daily routine, and will explain what's involved and what it may cost before you decide.
Everyday habits
A little island sunshine helps.
Research suggests that time spent outdoors in daylight may help delay the start of myopia in children. On Maui, that's an easy habit to build.
- Encourage outdoor play every day — with hats, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Take regular breaks from close work: every 20 minutes, look about 20 feet away for 20 seconds
- Hold books and devices at a comfortable distance, not right up to the face
- Keep up with regular eye exams so changes are caught early
How we track progress
Measuring, not guessing.
Myopia management works best with a baseline and regular follow-up. We'll check your child's prescription and eye measurements over time so you can see whether the plan is working, and adjust if it isn't.
Common questions
Can myopia be cured or reversed?
No. The goal of myopia management is to slow how quickly nearsightedness gets worse while a child's eyes are still growing, not to reverse it.
At what age does myopia management start?
It's usually considered for school-age children whose nearsightedness is starting or increasing. Dr. Hartman will talk with you about timing after an exam.
Are regular glasses enough?
Regular glasses and contact lenses correct blurry vision but are not designed to slow myopia progression. Myopia management uses specific approaches with that goal in mind.
Will insurance cover myopia management?
Coverage varies, and many plans don't cover it fully. Call us with your plan information and we'll help you understand what to expect before starting.
These are approaches to discuss, not a promise that every treatment is offered here or is right for your child. Confirm current availability, risks and follow-up requirements with the office.
Worried about your child's prescription?
Call to schedule an exam and a myopia management conversation.