“Myopia control” is the term used to describe specific treatments to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children.

Myopia control measures typically are prescribed by an eye doctor (an optometrist or an ophthalmologist).

There are four primary categories of myopia control treatments: atropine eye drops, multifocal contact lenses, multifocal eyeglasses and orthokeratology (ortho-k).

Myopia control is important because it may help reduce the risk of vision-threatening complications associated with high myopia later in life — including glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment and even blindness.