A simple guide to Ortho-K, MiSight, SpecialEyes, and Stellest for children’s myopia management.
What Is Myopia Control?
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, causes distant objects to appear blurry. In children, myopia can continue to progress as their eyes grow. Myopia control treatments aim to slow this progression and support long-term eye health.
Several options are available, including overnight contact lenses, specialty daytime contact lenses, and specially designed eyeglass lenses. The best choice depends on your child’s age, prescription, eye health, and lifestyle.
Comparing Four Myopia Control Options
1. Paragon CRT / Ortho-K
Type: Overnight rigid contact lenses
Ortho-K lenses are worn while sleeping to temporarily reshape the cornea, allowing many children to see clearly during the day without glasses or contact lenses. Ortho-K may also help slow myopia progression. Proper lens care and regular follow-up are essential.
May suit: Active children who prefer clear daytime vision without glasses.
2. MiSight 1 day
Type: Daily disposable soft contact lenses
MiSight 1 day lenses correct distance vision while helping slow myopia progression. They are worn during the day and discarded after use.
May suit: Children who are comfortable wearing soft contact lenses during the day.
3. SpecialEyes
Type: Custom specialty contact lenses
SpecialEyes offers customizable specialty soft contact lenses. Depending on the specific lens design, a customized lens may be considered as part of an individualized vision correction or myopia management plan. Not every SpecialEyes lens is specifically designed or approved for myopia control.
May suit: Selected patients who may benefit from a customized contact lens design.
4. Stellest
Type: Specially designed eyeglasses
Stellest lenses use H.A.L.T. technology (Highly Aspherical Lenslet Target) and are designed to correct vision while helping slow myopia progression. They provide a glasses-based option for children who are not ready for contact lenses.
May suit: Children who prefer wearing glasses.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Paragon CRT / Ortho-K | MiSight 1 day | SpecialEyes | Stellest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Overnight rigid contacts | Daily soft contacts | Custom specialty contacts | Eyeglasses |
| Worn during sleep | Yes | No | No | No |
| Clear daytime vision without glasses | Often possible | While wearing lenses | While wearing lenses | Yes |
| Myopia management | Ortho-K approach | Specifically designed for myopia control | Specifically designed for myopia control | Specifically designed for myopia control |
| Lens care | Daily cleaning and care | Discard after use | 3 months disposable | Not applicable |
Why Is Myopia Management Important?
Slowing myopia progression may help reduce the risk of future eye health complications associated with higher levels of myopia. Regular eye examinations help monitor prescription changes and treatment response.
A comprehensive plan may include:
- Regular eye examinations and prescription checks.
- Axial length measurements when appropriate.
- A suitable treatment based on age, prescription, lifestyle, and treatment adherence.
- Healthy visual habits and outdoor time.
No treatment can guarantee that myopia will stop progressing. Regular follow-up is essential.
Schedule a Myopia Control Consultation
At New York Eye & Laser, we help families explore personalized myopia management options for their children. Our eye care team can evaluate your child’s vision, monitor myopia progression, and discuss whether Ortho-K, MiSight, specialty contact lenses, or Stellest may be appropriate.
Contact New York Eye & Laser to schedule a pediatric eye examination and myopia management consultation.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace a comprehensive eye examination or individualized clinical advice.
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