If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, you’re facing more than just blurry vision. Myopia is a progressive eye disease that causes the eyeball to elongate abnormally, creating exponentially higher risks of sight-threatening conditions throughout your child’s life. The good news is that breakthrough treatments now exist to slow this progression, and the FDA has authorized specific devices designed specifically for pediatric myopia control. Understanding your FDA-authorized options is the first step in protecting your child’s vision for a lifetime.

Understanding FDA Authorization for Myopia Control

The FDA’s involvement in myopia control represents a historic shift in how we approach childhood nearsightedness. For decades, standard single-vision glasses and contact lenses were the only options, but these simply correct blurry vision without addressing the underlying disease process. They’re like putting a Band-Aid on a wound that keeps getting deeper. Recent FDA authorizations recognize that myopia is a progressive disease requiring intervention beyond basic vision correction.

When we talk about FDA-authorized myopia control treatments, we’re referring to devices that have undergone rigorous clinical trials demonstrating both safety and efficacy specifically for slowing myopia progression in children. These aren’t off-label uses or experimental approaches. They’re treatments with robust clinical evidence showing measurable reductions in both refractive progression and axial elongation, the physical lengthening of the eyeball that drives all the serious risks associated with myopia.

Stellest Lenses: First FDA-Authorized Myopia Control Glasses

The Historic Authorization

In September 2025, Stellest lenses received FDA authorization, representing a landmark moment in myopia management. These are the first FDA-authorized eyeglass lenses specifically designed to help slow myopia progression in children. This authorization followed rigorous U.S. clinical trials demonstrating impressive safety and efficacy in children aged 6 to 12 years.

Stellest lenses look like regular glasses, but they incorporate groundbreaking optical technology called H.A.L.T., which stands for Highly Aspherical Lenslet Target. The lens features a clear central zone that provides normal, sharp vision, surrounded by 1,021 tiny aspherical lenslets arranged in 11 concentric rings. These microscopic lenslets create a controlled volume of light in front of the retina, sending a biological signal to the eye to slow its elongation.

Clinical Evidence

The evidence supporting FDA authorization is compelling. Over two years, children wearing Stellest lenses showed 71% less refractive progression and 53% less axial elongation compared with children wearing standard single-vision lenses. Axial elongation is the physical lengthening of the eyeball that drives all the disease risks associated with myopia.

What does 71% reduction mean in practical terms? If a child would typically progress by 1.00 diopter per year without treatment, Stellest could reduce that to approximately 0.30 diopters per year. Over five years of childhood growth, that’s the difference between accumulating 5.00 diopters versus 1.50 diopters. That difference of 3.50 diopters could mean the difference between moderate myopia and high myopia, dramatically reducing lifetime risk of vision-threatening complications.

Who Can Benefit

Stellest lenses are designed for children typically between ages 6 and 12 years with myopia ranging from approximately -0.75D to -4.50D, with up to about 1.50D of astigmatism. They’re particularly ideal for children who prefer glasses over contact lenses, kids not yet ready for contact lens handling responsibility, children with sensory sensitivities uncomfortable with eye touching, and families seeking treatment simplicity without complex medical routines.

For optimal effectiveness, the manufacturer recommends consistent daily wear of at least 10 hours per day, 6 days per week, though 12 or more hours daily may provide the best results. The lenses are made from impact-resistant polycarbonate material, making them safe for active play, school activities, and most sports.

MiSight 1 Day Contact Lenses: FDA-authorized Myopia Control Contacts

The First FDA-Authorized Contact Lens

MiSight 1 Day contact lenses were the first FDA-authorized contact lenses specifically designed to slow myopia progression in children. These soft, daily disposable lenses represent a breakthrough for children who prefer the freedom from glasses during sports, social activities, and daily life.

The lenses feature a dual-focus optical design with treatment zones that create myopic defocus on the peripheral retina while providing clear central vision. Like Stellest, this optical design sends signals to the eye to slow its elongation. The key advantage is that children wear them during the day like regular contact lenses, then dispose of them each night, eliminating any cleaning or maintenance routines.

Clinical Evidence

Clinical trials supporting FDA authorization demonstrated that MiSight contact lenses show 59% reduction in refractive progression and 52% reduction in axial length growth over three years. These results are comparable to Stellest lenses, making both treatments highly effective options for pediatric myopia control.

The studies followed children aged 8 to 12 years old at enrollment, tracking their progression over multiple years. The consistent findings across follow-up periods demonstrate that MiSight provides sustained myopia control benefits when worn consistently throughout childhood.

Who Can Benefit

MiSight lenses are ideal for responsible children comfortable with contact lens handling, kids who don’t want to wear glasses during the day, children seeking comfort and freedom for sports and activities, and families willing to support daily contact lens routines. The lenses require proper hygiene, including handwashing before insertion and removal, following wearing schedules, and disposing of lenses nightly.

Children as young as 8 years old have successfully worn MiSight lenses in clinical trials, though readiness depends more on maturity and responsibility level than chronological age. Some 8-year-olds are ready, while some 12-year-olds may not be. Our eye care team evaluates each child individually to determine whether contact lens wear is appropriate.

Understanding the Broader Myopia Control Landscape

FDA-Authorized vs. Off-Label Treatments

While Stellest lenses and MiSight contact lenses have received specific FDA authorization for myopia control in children, other effective treatments exist that are used off-label. Off-label doesn’t mean ineffective or unsafe. It simply means the FDA has not specifically authorized that particular use, though the treatment may be widely accepted and supported by extensive clinical research.

Two additional myopia control modalities are commonly prescribed: orthokeratology and low-dose atropine therapy. Both have robust clinical evidence demonstrating effectiveness in slowing myopia progression, but neither has received specific FDA authorization for this indication. Understanding the difference helps parents make informed decisions about their child’s care.

Clinical Evidence

Orthokeratology involves wearing specially designed rigid contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, allowing clear vision during the day without any glasses or contacts. It’s like dental retainers for the eyes. While the FDA has authorized certain orthokeratology lenses for overnight wear to correct myopia, the specific indication for slowing myopia progression in children is considered off-label use.

Despite the off-label designation, orthokeratology is supported by decades of research demonstrating 36% to 56% reduction in myopia progression depending on the specific study. The treatment offers complete daytime freedom from vision correction, which appeals to swimmers, athletes, and children who prefer not wearing anything on their eyes during the day.

Low-Dose Atropine: Pharmacological Approach

Low-dose atropine therapy involves applying eye drops nightly at concentrations between 0.01% and 0.05%. Atropine is an anticholinergic medication that slows the biochemical signals causing the eyeball to elongate. While atropine has been FDA-authorized for other ophthalmic uses for nearly 100 years, its use for pediatric myopia control remains off-label.

Research demonstrates that low-dose atropine provides 50% to 60% reduction in myopia progression, making it comparably effective to FDA-authorized optical treatments. The LAMP Study, a randomized, double-masked trial with 350 children ages 4-12, demonstrated efficacy at doses of 0.05%, 0.025%, and 0.01%. A 2020 meta-analysis including 809 patients showed significantly less myopia progression in the atropine treatment group compared to controls.

At ultra-low doses, side effects are minimal. Clinical trials including the LAMP study of approximately 350 children found that only 23 to 24 percent experienced mild photophobia in bright sunlight during the first year, easily resolved by wearing sunglasses. By the second year, no children reported any discomfort associated with the medication.

Comparing Your FDA-Authorized Options

Stellest vs. MiSight: Which Is Better?

Neither Stellest nor MiSight is universally better than the other. Both are proven, FDA-authorized treatments that effectively slow myopia progression with comparable clinical outcomes. Stellest shows 71% reduction in progression while MiSight demonstrates 59% reduction. Both reduce axial elongation by approximately 52% to 53%.

The choice between these two excellent options depends primarily on lifestyle factors, personal preference, and maturity level. Stellest offers the simplicity of eyeglasses without requiring daily contact lens insertion, removal, and hygiene routines. There’s no worrying about whether your child washed their hands properly, no concern about eye infections from poor hygiene, no running out of solution.

MiSight provides freedom from glasses that some children strongly prefer, especially for sports and social activities. Some children are self-conscious about wearing glasses or find them uncomfortable. MiSight gives these kids clear vision without anything on their face. However, it requires responsible contact lens handling, proper hygiene practices, and parental supervision, especially initially.

Key Factors in Your Decision

Child’s age and maturity level for handling contact lenses responsibly

Personal preference regarding glasses versus contact lenses

Family lifestyle and ability to support different treatment routines

Sports and activity involvement that might favor one option over another

Sensory sensitivities or comfort with touching eyes

Consistency and compliance with wearing schedules

Insurance coverage and cost considerations for ongoing supplies

The Importance of Early Intervention

Why Every Year Matters

Research shows that slowing progression by just 1.00 diopter reduces the risk of myopic maculopathy by 40 percent (Bullimore et al., 2019, Optometry and Vision Science). Slowing progression also reduces the risk of retinal detachment, though the specific risk reduction varies by study. This is why myopia management isn’t optional. Waiting is not neutral. Every year without treatment allows the eye to continue elongating, stacking up diopters that translate directly into lifetime disease risk.

Children with moderate myopia between -3.00D and -5.00D face significantly elevated risks compared to children with normal vision, including 9 times the risk of retinal detachment, 3 times the risk of cataracts, and 2 times the risk of glaucoma. Risk of myopic macular degeneration also increases with higher myopia levels, with high myopia (greater than -6.00D) creating 40 times the risk. High myopia (greater than -5.00D) creates even more alarming statistics: 21 times the risk of retinal detachment and 40 times the risk of myopic macular degeneration.

The Window of Opportunity

Early intervention during childhood, when progression is most rapid, is the only way to reduce the total amount of myopia your child develops during their growing years. Myopia typically begins between ages 6 and 12 and progresses most rapidly during these years. Starting treatment as soon as myopia is detected maximizes the cumulative benefit your child receives.

The FDA authorizations for Stellest and MiSight reflect the critical age range when intervention makes the biggest difference. By age 6, when Stellest is typically prescribed, progression is often just beginning. Catching it early and slowing it throughout childhood can mean the difference between mild myopia and high myopia, dramatically altering your child’s lifetime risk of vision-threatening complications.

Lifestyle Factors That Support Treatment

Outdoor Time: The Most Critical Factor

No FDA-authorized treatment works in isolation. Lifestyle modifications work synergistically with optical or pharmacological interventions to maximize myopia control. The most critical lifestyle factor is outdoor time. Research consistently shows that approximately 2 hours per day outdoors provides protective benefits in slowing myopia progression.

Natural light triggers dopamine release in the retina, which creates a biological signal that helps slow eye elongation. We recommend 90 to 120 minutes daily of outdoor activity. Think of outdoor time as medicine, not a suggestion. It’s not optional or something to squeeze in if you have time. It’s a prescription just like Stellest lenses or MiSight contacts are prescriptions.

Screen Time Management

Following the 20-20-20 rule helps reduce eye strain. Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This gives the focusing muscles inside the eye a break from sustained near work. Maintaining appropriate reading distance and good lighting for near work also supports eye health.

The combination of FDA-authorized treatments plus healthy visual habits provides comprehensive myopia management. Neither works as well alone as they do together. Stellest or MiSight provides the foundation, while outdoor time and proper visual habits provide the supporting framework.

Kids Vision Health The Long Term Consequences Of Myopia

Our Comprehensive Approach to Myopia Management

All Options Under One Roof

At Insight Vision Center, we offer comprehensive training in all myopia management modalities: Stellest lenses, MiSight contact lenses, orthokeratology, and low-dose atropine. This breadth of expertise means our treatment recommendations are truly individualized rather than pushing patients toward whatever we happen to offer. Whether we recommend an FDA-authorized optical treatment or an off-label approach, you can trust that the recommendation is based on your child’s unique needs.

Our philosophy centers on customization over hierarchy. All treatments are positioned as equal premium options. The best treatment depends on your child’s unique circumstances, not on which option generates impressive statistics or revenue for the practice. We evaluate your child’s eyes, discuss your family’s lifestyle and preferences, and recommend the approach that makes the most sense for your situation.

Global Leadership in Pediatric Myopia Control

Our clinical team includes internationally recognized leaders in pediatric myopia control. Dr. Thanh Mai, OD, FSLS, FIAOMC serves on the Treehouse Eyes Leadership Team, bringing national-level knowledge to every patient interaction. Families travel from across the globe to receive myopia management at our practice, establishing our position as leaders in this field.

These credentials represent thousands of hours of specialized training and clinical experience in myopia management. Whether you choose Stellest, MiSight, orthokeratology, atropine, or combination therapy, you’re receiving care from doctors who have dedicated their careers to protecting children’s vision.

The Highest Rated Eye Care Center In Orange County

What Our Patients are Saying

“Insight vision has great customer service staff n the best optometrist Ive ever seen
Dr Nathan Schramm spends as much time as needed n has the highest advanced technology. I highly recommend this practice for anyone with any vision problem.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Nancy B.

“Everyone there was really nice. From the front desk to the doctor, they were all very nice and accommodating. Rachel was the one who taught me how to put contact lenses in my eyes and she was super patient with me. Definitely recommend this place.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Tim S.

Taking the Next Step

Your No-Charge Myopia Evaluation

The best way to determine which FDA-authorized or evidence-based treatment is right for your child is through a comprehensive myopia evaluation. We offer a no-charge assessment that includes complete eye health examination, comprehensive refraction to determine the exact prescription, axial length measurement to establish baseline eye length for tracking, binocular vision assessment, risk factor evaluation examining family history and visual environment, discussion of all treatment options, and personalized recommendations.

This evaluation provides everything you need to make an informed decision about myopia management for your child. There’s no pressure to commit immediately. Take time to discuss options as a family, review insurance coverage, and prepare for beginning treatment when you’re ready.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact us at (714) 942-1361 to schedule your child’s complimentary myopia evaluation. You can also speak with our Myopia Management Care Coordinator for a free phone consultation if you have questions before scheduling.

Remember that early intervention provides maximum benefit. Every year of delay allows progression to continue unchecked, stacking up diopters that translate into lifetime disease risk. Myopia progression doesn’t pause while you’re deciding what to do. This is your window to protect your child’s future eye health. The decisions you make now will influence their vision and quality of life for decades to come.

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Dr. Chen and the staff are very friendly and professional and can provide patients with sincere service and advice.

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Insight Vision Center Optometry has truly transformed my eyecare experience over the past year. Under the expert care of Dr. Chen, Dr. Schramm, Dr. Lam, and Dr. Mai, I've received unparalleled attention and personalized service. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond the doctors to the outstanding admin and tech team who ensure a seamless... Read more

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Dr. Schramm is stellar. He really cares about his patients. Great staff. Scleral lenses are life changing.

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My first eye exam in fifteen years. I am so thankful that I found Insight Vision Center. Dr. Lam and staff made me feel like a welcome guest. My eye exam revealed very minor blurriness and Dr. Lam did not pressure me into purchasing eyewear for a condition not necessitating glasses… yet. Maybe next... Read more

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