Myopia in Teens & Adults: Are Treatment Options Different?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision condition that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. While it can develop at any age, myopia often begins in childhood and may progress into the teenage years. One common question we hear at InnoVision Optometry is: Are treatment options different for teens and adults?

Myopia in Teens vs. Adults

Teens are often in a phase where their eyes are still growing, making them more susceptible to rapid changes in prescription. The primary goal for this age group is myopia control - slowing down or stopping the progression of nearsightedness to reduce long-term risks like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration.

Adults typically have more stable prescriptions, meaning myopia control treatments may not be as necessary. Instead, the focus often shifts to clear and comfortable vision correction. However, some adults still benefit from certain treatments if progression continues or if they want to explore non-surgical vision correction methods.

Glasses for Clear Vision

Eyeglasses remain the simplest and most accessible way to correct myopia for both teens and adults. They provide sharp vision and can be tailored with lens coatings for glare reduction, UV protection, and durability. While glasses do not slow myopia progression, they’re an essential tool for day-to-day vision needs.

Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops are primarily used for myopia control in children and teens, as research shows they can slow prescription changes. In adults, atropine is rarely prescribed for myopia control but may be used for certain eye health conditions or to manage symptoms of eye strain.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, providing clear vision during the day without glasses or contacts.

• Teens: Ortho-K is highly effective for myopia control, making it a top choice for those whose prescriptions are still changing.

• Adults: Many choose Ortho-K for convenience or to avoid daytime contact lens wear, though myopia control is usually not the main goal.

MiSight® 1 day Contact Lenses

MiSight® lenses are FDA-approved for myopia control in children as young as 8, making them ideal for teens with progressive myopia. They are designed to slow eye growth while providing clear vision. Adults can wear MiSight® lenses for vision correction, but the myopia control benefits are primarily targeted at younger eyes.

Soft Multifocal Contact Lenses

These specially designed lenses have different zones for distance and near vision, which can also help in myopia management for teens. In adults, soft multifocal lenses are often prescribed for presbyopia (age-related near vision loss), though they can still be an option for myopia correction.

Explore Myopia Treatment Options with Our Experts

While many myopia treatment options overlap for teens and adults, the underlying goals often differ. Teens benefit most from strategies that slow progression and protect their long-term eye health, while adults typically seek clear, comfortable vision correction. At InnoVision Optometry, we tailor our recommendations to each patient’s age, lifestyle, and eye health needs.

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with InnoVision Optometry to explore the best myopia solution for you or your teen. Visit our office in Rowland Heights, California, or call (626) 593-8700 to book an appointment today.