What is myopia?
Myopia, or nearsightedness, means distant objects look blurry while close objects stay clear. It happens when the eye grows too long from front to back. Myopia usually starts in childhood and tends to increase until the eye stops growing.
Why slowing it matters
Each step up in a prescription means thicker glasses and more dependence on correction. Higher levels of myopia also raise the lifetime risk of serious eye conditions, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts and myopic macular degeneration. Slowing progression in childhood lowers those risks for life.
Illustration only, not to scale. Every child is different, and results depend on consistent daily wear. Your doctor will explain what to expect for your child.
Stellest lenses for myopia control
Made by Essilor, Stellest lenses look like regular glasses. The center of the lens corrects vision, and a ring of tiny lenslets around it sends a signal that helps slow the eye's growth. Clinical studies have shown they slow myopia progression compared with standard single-vision lenses, especially when worn at least 12 hours a day.
Our Myopia Control Program
Myopia control is more than a pair of lenses. It needs measurements over time to make sure it's working. That's why we prescribe it through a yearly program.
- Enrollment is annual and renews each year
- Includes three to four follow-up visits during the year, as your doctor recommends
- Includes any specialty testing needed to prescribe accurately and track progress
- Separate from routine eye exam fees and insurance co-pays
- Enrollment is required for Stellest lenses to be prescribed
Call us for program pricing and to ask any questions before you enroll.
Signs your child may be nearsighted
- Squinting to see the board, TV or road signs
- Sitting very close to screens or holding books close
- Headaches or tired eyes after school
- A parent who is nearsighted
- A prescription that has increased at each exam
Habits that help
Time outdoors in daylight is linked with a lower chance of developing myopia. Encourage outdoor play every day, regular breaks from close-up work and screens, and good lighting for homework.
Common questions
Is myopia control the same as getting glasses?
No. Regular glasses or contacts make vision clear but don't slow how quickly nearsightedness progresses. Myopia control lenses are designed to do both: correct vision and slow progression.
How long does my child need to wear the lenses each day?
Results depend on consistent wear. Stellest lenses work best when worn most of the day, at least 12 hours. MiSight contacts are worn daily as directed by your doctor.
Do I need to enroll in the program?
Yes. Myopia control is prescribed through our yearly Myopia Control Program, which covers the follow-up visits and specialty testing needed to prescribe accurately and track your child's progress.
How much does the program cost?
Please call us for current pricing. The program fee is separate from the routine eye exam fee and any insurance co-pays.
Where do we get the Stellest glasses?
After the prescription is written, Costco Optical, next to our office, can order the lenses and fit frames. Costco Optical is a separate business from RLK Eye Associates.
Do you offer orthokeratology (Ortho-K)?
Ortho-K is not offered at this office. If you're interested in it, ask us and we'll help you find a provider.
Other options
MiSight 1 day contact lenses. A daily disposable soft contact lens designed to correct nearsightedness and slow its progression in children. It can be a good fit for active kids and those involved in sports. Ask your doctor whether it's right for your child.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K). This overnight lens option isn't offered at this office. Ask us and we'll help you find a provider.