What is a myopia management consultation?
Myopia (short-sightedness) is increasing rapidly worldwide, and the UK is no exception. Research suggests that around 30% of the UK population is now myopic, and the prevalence is rising in children. While glasses and contact lenses correct the blurred distance vision caused by myopia, they do not address the underlying problem — the eyeball growing too long. Higher levels of myopia significantly increase the lifetime risk of serious eye conditions including retinal detachment, myopic macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts.
Myopia management is a proactive, evidence-based approach that aims to slow the rate at which a child's myopia progresses. This reduces their final prescription and, crucially, lowers their risk of sight-threatening complications in adulthood. The main treatments currently available in the UK include specially designed spectacle lenses (such as MiYOSMART or Stellest), soft multifocal contact lenses designed for myopia control, orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea, and low-dose atropine eye drops.
A myopia management consultation typically begins with a thorough assessment of your child's current prescription, the rate at which their myopia has been changing, their axial length (the length of the eyeball), lifestyle factors such as time spent outdoors and screen time, and family history. Based on this information, your optometrist will recommend the most appropriate treatment strategy. Myopia management is a growing area of optometry in the UK, and an increasing number of practices now offer dedicated clinics.
Who needs a myopia management consultation?
- Children and teenagers whose myopia is progressing (prescription getting stronger each year)
- Children with one or both parents who are myopic
- Young children (under 10) who have already developed myopia — earlier onset tends to lead to higher final prescriptions
- Parents concerned about their child's increasing screen time and its effect on their eyesight
- Any child or young person with myopia above -1.00 dioptres
What to expect during a myopia management consultation
- 1A full review of your child's prescription history and rate of myopia progression
- 2Measurement of axial length (the length of the eyeball) using optical biometry
- 3Discussion of lifestyle factors including time spent outdoors, near work, and screen time
- 4Assessment of risk factors for further progression
- 5A clear explanation of the available myopia management options, their evidence base, and costs
- 6Agreement on a treatment plan and schedule for monitoring appointments
How much does it cost?
£50–£150 for the initial consultation. Ongoing treatment costs vary: specialist spectacle lenses £200–£400, myopia control contact lenses £30–£60 per month, ortho-k lenses £400–£800 for the first year. Not funded by the NHS
How often should you have this test?
Review appointments every 6 months during active treatment to monitor progression and adjust the management plan