Multifocal Designs for Children

Multifocals to Treat Myopia in Children

There are several options today to correct vision in children with myopia (nearsightedness) and in preventing progression of this eye disorder. Multifocal lenses, either in the form of prescription glasses or contacts, are a popular option that has effectively been used in childhood myopia. The following article will address this intervention and its efficacy for children.

What Are Multifocals?

Multifocals can be adapted for prescription glasses or contact lenses. With a unique design featuring multiple prescriptions and focal points for different aspects of vision, the blended lens found in multifocals enables a more harmonious experience.They lack the dividing line found in bifocals.

Multifocal Glasses

Multifocal prescription glasses incorporate focal points for specific types of vision. They have the added advantage of being easier for children to adapt to than standard bifocals because they tend to be free of the "image jumps'' one finds with bifocals. Additionally, they lack the dividing line found in bifocals that children may associate with "old people''.

Multifocal Glasses

Multifocals can effectively slow down myopia progression. However, they will not be effective for the very young who have difficulty wearing and maintaining contacts. Additionally, there is always the risk of infections associated with contact lens wear, which may render them unsuitable for children.

How Multifocals Slow Myopia Progression

Research has shown that multifocals slow the progression of eye growth, specifically of axial elongation, attributed to the development and progression of myopia.

Common Questions

Are they only used to treat childhood myopia?

In addition to treating nearsightedness, they are also used to treat focusing issues.

Does it take awhile for children to adapt to them?

Studies have shown that children adapt fairly quickly.

What age is ideal for children to wear multifocal contacts?

There is no definitive age to determine how old an individual child should be to wear multifocal contacts. Maturation is a greater factor in deciding when a child is ready, although a common recommended age is approximately 8 years of age.

Multifocals To Slow Myopia Progression In Children

The use of multifocals, either in the form of glasses or contact lenses, are associated with successfully slowing down myopia in children. As a serious ocular disorder that can lead to complications such as glaucoma, retinal detachment and cataracts, early intervention is essential. Multifocal contacts may not be suitable for children ill-equipped to wear and maintain them. If your child is experiencing difficulties with myopia, speak with an optometrist to discuss whether multifocals might be viable.