If your child has been diagnosed with myopia (nearsightedness), you’ve likely encountered terms like MiSight lenses and ortho-k while researching treatments. MiSight and ortho-k lenses are 2 potential myopia control options, each with its own benefits. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to which is better for your child because it depends on the situation.
Each of these therapies is gaining traction as an option for controlling myopia progression, but deciding which one is suited for your child can feel overwhelming. Continue reading to learn about the basics of each option and then consult your child’s eye doctor for personalized advice.
What Is Myopia Control?
Myopia is a common refractive error in which distant objects appear blurry while nearby objects are clear. It occurs when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved and prevents light from focusing correctly on the retina.
While glasses and standard contact lenses can correct vision, they don’t address the underlying issue of myopia progression, which can lead to more significant eye health risks over time. This is where myopia control treatments like MiSight and ortho-k lenses come into play. Their primary goal is not just vision correction but also slowing the worsening of myopia.
Some myopia control can reduce the risk of severe complications like retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and glaucoma later in life. Early intervention can make a big difference, so it’s worth exploring the options available.
What Are MiSight Lenses?
MiSight lenses are soft, daily disposable contact lenses specifically designed for children with myopia. They are FDA-approved and use special technology to correct current vision and slow myopia progression.
MiSight lenses employ concentric rings with alternating corrective and treatment zones. These zones help your child see clearly and manipulate how light enters the eye, reducing the stimulus that drives excessive eye growth (which causes myopia to worsen).
Benefits of MiSight Lenses
- Slows myopia progression: Studies have shown that MiSight lenses can reduce myopia progression by an average of 59% in children.
- Daily disposables: With MiSight lenses, your child gets a fresh pair daily, ensuring cleanliness and eliminating the hassles of cleaning and storing them.
- Safe and easy to use: These lenses are comfortable and user-friendly, making them an excellent choice for children new to contact lenses.
MiSight lenses are ideal for:
- Children between 8 and 12 years old
- Parents seeking a low-maintenance, convenient option
- Children with early-stage myopia who can commit to wearing lenses consistently
What Are Ortho-K Lenses?
Ortho-K lenses, or orthokeratology, are corneal reshaping lenses. They’re specialized gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, temporarily correcting nearsightedness. When the lenses are removed in the morning, your child enjoys clear vision throughout the day without needing glasses or contacts.
Ortho-K lenses also have proven benefits in slowing myopia progression by reducing the eye’s tendency to grow longer.
Benefits of Ortho-K Lenses
- Daytime freedom: Since the lenses are worn at night, children don’t need to wear contacts or glasses during the day, which is perfect for active lifestyles or sports.
- Noninvasive alternative: Ortho-K offers a surgery-free way to correct vision and manage myopia progression.
- Suitable for all ages: These lenses are versatile for children and adults with mild to moderate myopia
Ortho-k is ideal for:
- Active kids involved in sports, swimming, or other activities where glasses or daytime contacts might be inconvenient
- Parents who want a non-surgical option for vision correction and myopia control
- Children who are comfortable with overnight lens wear
Key Differences Between MiSight & Ortho-K Lenses
When deciding between MiSight and ortho-k lenses, you must understand how they serve your child’s vision needs differently while both work to manage myopia.
MiSight lenses are soft contact lenses designed for daytime wear. They are disposable and intended for single use, ensuring cleanliness and convenience. These lenses are particularly suited for younger children who may not yet be ready for overnight lens care.
On the other hand, ortho-k lenses are specialized, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that are worn overnight while your child sleeps. They gently reshape the cornea, temporarily correcting vision so your child can enjoy clear sight without needing glasses or contacts during the day. Ortho-k lenses are an excellent option for active children who prefer a glasses-free lifestyle during waking hours.
Both lens options can manage myopia but are tailored to fit different preferences and routines. During a consultation, your eye doctor will help you weigh these factors and choose the option that suits your child’s vision goals and habits.
Which Lenses Are Right for Your Child?
The decision between MiSight and ortho-k lenses ultimately depends on your child’s lifestyle, age, and comfort level with contact lenses.
- Choose MiSight lenses if you’re looking for a simple, low-maintenance option for younger children or if cleanliness and convenience are top priorities.
- Choose ortho-k lenses if your child is highly active or involved in activities where glasses or daytime contact lenses might be inconvenient.
Get Expert Guidance from Tree City Eyecare
Choosing the right myopia control treatment helps protect your child’s vision. At Tree City Eyecare, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. We offer personalized consultations, detailed assessments, and ongoing support for your child’s success with MiSight or ortho-k lenses. Together, we can find a practical treatment for your child’s vision and lifestyle needs. Contact us and book an appointment today.