What Is Myopia (Nearsightedness)?

Standard myopia cannot be reversed with glasses or contacts — they correct vision but do not change the eye's shape. Refractive surgery reshapes the cornea permanently but does not shorten an elongated eye. Myopia control treatments can slow or halt progression in children.

Mild myopia poses little health risk beyond the inconvenience of needing correction. High myopia (over -6.00 D) significantly increases the lifetime risk of retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. This is why slowing progression in children is important.

Myopia can begin as early as age 5‑6, though it most commonly becomes apparent between ages 8‑12. Progression tends to be fastest during the school-age years and early teens before stabilizing in the mid-to-late 20s.

Standard glasses and contacts for myopia are covered by vision plans. Myopia control therapies that slow progression in children are often out-of-pocket or partially covered because coverage is still evolving. We discuss costs and payment options at your consultation.