Myopia Management for ChildrenDetecting and treating short-sightedness early
Detecting and treating short-sightedness early
Short-sightedness (myopia) often begins in childhood and can increase considerably during growth. The earlier myopia appears and the faster it progresses, the greater the risk of developing high myopia in adulthood.
Increasing myopia does not just mean ever stronger glasses. As myopia rises, so does the risk of later eye diseases such as retinal detachment, myopic macular changes or glaucoma.
Our aim is to detect progressive myopia early and to slow its development as effectively as possible.
Axial length measurement – identifying the individual risk
A key part of our myopia management is the non-contact measurement of the axial length of the eye (biometry).
Much like the percentile curves used for body growth, a child’s axial length can be classified against age-related reference values. This allows us to estimate whether there is an increased risk of developing stronger myopia.
Regular follow-up measurements also show us how fast the eye is growing and whether a treatment that has been started is having the desired effect.
The examination is non-contact, painless and takes only a few minutes.
Measuring the axial length for early detection and monitoring of progressive myopia is a self-pay service (IGeL) not covered by statutory health insurance. Cost: €60 per examination, in addition to the cost of the basic ophthalmological check-up (IGeL).
What options are there to slow the progression of myopia?
Several scientifically studied treatment options are available today:
Low-dose atropine eye drops
Atropine eye drops in low concentration can slow the progression of myopia. Treatment usually continues over a longer period under regular ophthalmological supervision.
Special myopia-control spectacle lenses
Innovative spectacle lenses with special optical technologies correct the refractive error and can at the same time reduce the progression of myopia. They fit easily into everyday life.
Special contact lenses
Contact lenses developed for myopia management can slow myopia progression through their special optical effect.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Special rigid contact lenses are worn overnight and temporarily reshape the cornea. As a result, glasses are often not needed during the day. At the same time they can slow the progression of myopia.
Which treatment is best suited to your child depends on their age, how the myopia has developed so far, the axial length and individual circumstances.
Myopia check-ups and myopia management for your child
At Eyemed Berlin Augenärzte we support short-sighted children and adolescents with individual diagnostics, regular axial length measurements and a therapy tailored to each child. Every dioptre avoided can help reduce the risk of later myopia-related eye diseases.
Appointments for myopia check-ups and myopia management are available at our Nürnberger Straße 67 practice.