More than 41% of people in the United States are affected by myopia (nearsightedness). While there is currently no treatment that completely stops myopia progression, modern options can significantly slow it down.

Slowing myopia may reduce the risk of serious eye complications later in life such as: myopic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and glaucoma.

🏆 Best: Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses

Research shows that multifocal (bifocal) soft contact lenses can significantly reduce myopia progression and slow eye elongation. In one study, 70% of children experienced a reduction of myopia progression by 30% or more when wearing bifocal lenses compared to single vision lenses.

👍 Better: Traditional Bifocal Glasses

Studies have shown about a 20% reduction in myopia progression with bifocal lenses compared to single vision lenses. Some older studies suggest the reduction could be as high as 44%.

🙂 Good: Progressive Addition Lenses (PALs)

Many children and teens like progressive lenses because they provide a smooth transition from distance to near vision without a visible line.

However, research shows PALs only provide a small reduction in myopia progression. Due to the cost compared to single vision lenses and the minimal benefit, PALs are generally not recommended as a routine treatment for myopia control.

⚠️ Worse: Undercorrected Single Vision Lenses

Some parents ask for a weaker prescription because they worry strong glasses will make myopia worse. Unfortunately, studies do not support this.

Research suggests undercorrecting may actually cause children to progress faster. That’s why we recommend keeping prescriptions updated as soon as the eyes change, to support clear and stable vision.

📌 Source Note: Abridged from the original article written by David Kading, O.D. and Amber Mayberry.