Science & Technology

Myopia Control Methods:
The Science Explained

Ortho-K, atropine, MiSight — understanding how each technology works to slow myopia progression in children.

Ortho-K Lenses

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) uses specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight. While your child sleeps, the lenses gently reshape the cornea, reducing myopia by flattening the central cornea and creating peripheral defocus that signals the eye to stop elongating.

40-60%
Myopia reduction
8-14
Age range (years)
Pros
  • Glasses-free all day
  • Reversible effect
  • No daytime lens wear
  • Best for active kids
Considerations
  • Nightly lens wear required
  • Higher upfront cost
  • Requires good hygiene
  • Not suitable for very high Rx

Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine (0.01%-0.05%) is a medicated eye drop applied once daily. It works by blocking muscarinic receptors in the eye and reducing the biochemical signals that drive eye elongation. Higher concentrations work better but cause more side effects — 0.01% offers the best balance of efficacy and tolerability.

50-70%
Myopia reduction
5-18
Age range (years)
Pros
  • Simple daily drops
  • Highly effective
  • Well tolerated
  • Easy to administer
Considerations
  • Not TGA approved in Australia
  • Off-label use
  • Long-term data limited
  • Continued use required

MiSight Daily Contacts

CooperVision MiSight is the first FDA-approved soft daily disposable contact lens specifically designed for myopia control. The lens uses ActivControl Technology — dual-focus optical design that corrects distance vision while creating peripheral defocus to slow eye growth. Worn during the day like regular contacts.

59%
Myopia reduction
8-12
Age range (years)
Pros
  • FDA-approved for myopia
  • Daily disposables (hygiene)
  • No cleaning required
  • Good for occasional wearers
Considerations
  • Daytime lens wear needed
  • Not for very young kids
  • Requires responsible handling
  • Moderate cost ongoing

Defocus Incorporated Lenses

Specialised spectacle lenses (like Essilor Stellest or Hoya MiYOSMART) use proprietary lens technology to create continuous myopic defocus across the retina while maintaining clear distance vision. The lens has thousands of micro-lenses creating constant peripheral defocus signal. Worn like normal glasses.

60%
Myopia reduction
6-18
Age range (years)
Pros
  • Simple as regular glasses
  • No contact lens handling
  • Suitable for all ages
  • TGA/EU approved
Considerations
  • Must be worn consistently
  • No freedom from glasses
  • Requires prescription
  • Higher cost than standard

Method Comparison

Method Efficacy Age Range Wear Schedule TGA Status
Ortho-K 40-60% reduction 8-14 years Overnight only Approved
Atropine 0.01% 50-70% reduction 5-18 years Daily drops Off-label
MiSight 59% reduction 8-12 years Daytime (10+ hrs) FDA Approved
MiYOSMART/Stellest 60% reduction 6-18 years All waking hours CE/EU Approved

Which Option Is Right for Your Child?

The best myopia control method depends on your child's age, prescription, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Many eye care professionals recommend combination therapy — Ortho-K plus low-dose atropine — for children with fast-progressing myopia.

Book a consultation with a qualified Ortho-K practitioner to discuss the best option for your child.

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