Managing Myopia with Ortho-K, Multifocal Lenses, and Atropine Drops

Myopia is becoming increasingly common in children. With more screen time, near-focused activities, and less outdoor play, many kids are developing myopia at younger ages. At Focal Optometry, we offer myopia management in Mira Mesa, San Diego, offering evidence-based treatments designed to support healthy visual development as children grow.

Why Managing Myopia Early Matters

Myopia is more than just blurry distance vision. When myopia progresses rapidly, it can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration. Early intervention through proactive pediatric eye care in Mira Mesa, San Diego can help slow eye growth and reduce these long-term risks.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Ortho-K lenses are custom-designed rigid contact lenses worn overnight. While your child sleeps, the lenses gently reshape the surface of the eye. In the morning, the lenses are removed, allowing clear vision throughout the day without glasses or contact lenses.

Beyond the convenience, Ortho-K is a proven myopia management option. It changes how light focuses on the retina, helping slow the eye’s elongation - the primary cause of myopia progression. Ortho-K is especially appealing for active children who play sports or prefer daytime freedom from eyewear.

Multifocal Contact Lenses

Multifocal soft contact lenses are another effective option for managing myopia in children. These lenses are worn during the day and are designed with multiple focusing zones. While the center of the lens corrects distance vision, the peripheral zones help reduce the stimulus that drives myopia progression.

Multifocal lenses are comfortable, easy to adapt to, and often ideal for children who are ready for daytime contact lens wear. They also provide flexibility for kids who may not be candidates for Ortho-K.

Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops are a simple yet powerful tool in myopia management. Used once daily, usually at bedtime, atropine has been shown to significantly slow myopia progression with minimal side effects at low concentrations.

Atropine drops can be used on their own or combined with Ortho-K or multifocal lenses for enhanced results. This option is particularly beneficial for younger children or those who are not ready for contact lenses.

Personalized Myopia Management Plans

At Focal Optometry, we evaluate each child’s prescription, eye growth patterns, lifestyle, and visual needs to create a customized treatment plan. Regular monitoring ensures adjustments can be made as your child grows and their eyes change. By combining advanced technology with compassionate pediatric eye care in Mira Mesa, San Diego, we help families feel confident and informed every step of the way.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Myopia doesn’t have to progress unchecked. With today’s proven treatment options, parents have powerful tools to help protect their child’s vision now and in the future. Early action and consistent care are key to successful myopia management in San Diego.

If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, Focal Optometry is here to help. Contact to schedule a pediatric eye exam and learn which treatment option is best for your child’s long-term eye health. Visit our office in San Diego, California, or call (858) 566-1756 today.