Myopia

Myopia Management

Myopia (nearsightedness) develops when the light entering the eye falls short on the retina, causing images at distance to become blurry while images at near remain sharp. Myopia causes light in the periphery to focus in a way that tells the eye to keep growing. This creates a feedback loop in which the body’s response to the problem causes myopia to get worse.

By using peripheral defocus technology, we can focus peripheral light in a way that slows growth, thereby slowing (not stopping) myopic progression. All four types of myopia management help with peripheral defocus.

The visual symptoms can be corrected using standard glasses or contact lenses, but they do not slow down how quickly myopia develops.

Treatment Options

Orthokeratology

  • Rigid contact lens worn at night to temporarily reshape the front part of the eye
  • Provides clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses during the day
  • Contacts are rigid and can be uncomfortable for the first 2 weeks

Cost & Details:

  • $2,200 cost for the first year of treatment
  • Includes one set of Ortho-K lenses, visits, and axial length scans for the year
  • Lenses are warranted for 90 days
  • Follow-ups after the first year: $125 per visit every 6 months
  • New lenses every 1–2 years: about $500

Treatment Parameters:

  • Maximum prescription: -5.00 D
  • Maximum astigmatism: -1.50 D

MiSight

  • The only FDA-approved soft contact lenses for myopia management
  • More comfortable than Ortho-K lenses
  • Daily disposable lenses worn during the day and removed at night

Cost & Details:

  • $2,200 cost for the first year of treatment
  • Includes a year supply of MiSight lenses, visits, and A-scans
  • Follow-ups after the first year: $125 per visit every 6 months
  • Yearly lens supply: $1,096

Treatment Parameters:

  • Maximum prescription: -7.00 D
  • Ideal age: 8–12 years old

Monday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Tuesday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Thursday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Atropine Eye Drops

  • Compounded eye drop (Atropine 0.05%) used at bedtime
  • Provided by Town and Country Pharmacy, Ramsey, NJ

Cost:

  • $95 for a 90-day supply
  • $10 shipping to PA (as of 2025)

Side Effects:

  • Increased light sensitivity
  • Headache
  • Blurry vision

If side effects occur, a lower dose (Atropine 0.025%) may be used.

Follow-ups:

  • 1 month after starting
  • 6 months after starting
  • Every 6 months thereafter

Visit Cost:

  • $65 per visit (refraction and axial length measurements)

Stellest Lenses

  • Glasses with a clear 9 mm center surrounded by rings of tiny raised dots to create light defocus

Side Effects:

  • Blur
  • Halos

Follow-ups:

  • 2 weeks with optical
  • Every 6 months with the doctor

Wear Requirements:

  • Minimum 10 hours per day
  • At least 6 days per week

Treatment Parameters:

  • Maximum prescription: -10.00 D
  • Maximum astigmatism: -4.00 D
  • Ideal ages: 6–12

Cost:

  • $489 (as of February 2026)
  • Includes one-time remake if needed

*The cost of treatment does not include medical visits related to contact lenses. These visits will be billed to your medical insurance.

Common Questions & Practice Info

What can I do at home to help slow myopia progression?

  • Ensure your child spends at least 2 hours outdoors daily
  • Limit screen time
  • Keep devices about 2 feet away and at eye level
  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule:
    • Every 20 minutes
    • Look at something 20 feet away
    • Blink 20 times

What is the most effective method?

Orthokeratology lenses are currently the most effective at slowing eye growth. Glasses and contact lenses offer similar results. Many patients use a combination of treatments, such as contacts or glasses with atropine drops.

What are the risks of wearing contacts?

  • Mild discomfort or blurred vision may occur
  • Low risk of serious complications such as corneal infections
  • Higher risk with overnight lens wear
  • Orthokeratology lenses may be less comfortable, especially for children

Proper hygiene and care are essential. Children can safely use contact lenses with proper guidance.

What about refractive surgery?

  • LASIK is not recommended for children because the eye is still growing
  • It is typically not an option until prescription stabilizes, usually in the mid-20s

Your eyes deserve personal care— right here in Phoenixville.