When we first introduced myopia management in Edinburgh over a decade ago, we were pioneers, one of the only practices offering this innovative care. Since then, it's been encouraging to see awareness grow, with more optometrists and high street opticians now providing some form of treatment. It’s now widely recognised that myopia is not just a vision issue, but a condition that can and should be managed.
That said, not all treatments are created equal.
That’s why getting it right the first time is essential. While no treatment can promise perfect results, it’s vital to ensure that any limitations in effectiveness aren’t due to a lack of clinical expertise or experience.
To help you make an informed decision, here are the key factors to consider when choosing a provider for your child’s myopia management:
- Practice experience
Look for a clinic with a proven track record, ideally one that has managed over 100 cases across at least five years. It takes significant experience and expertise to project the likelihood of myopia developing and the predicted rate, which are important to allow you to receive the best advice. - Optometrist expertise
Inquire about the optometrist’s qualifications and hands-on experience specifically in myopia management. - Dispenser qualifications
The person fitting your child’s glasses plays a crucial role. They should be a qualified dispensing optician with additional training in myopia management. - Lens handling support
Children should be given all the time and guidance they need to confidently insert, remove, and care for their lenses. Rushing this process can lead to discomfort and failure to continue treatment. - Range of treatment options
The practice should offer all three evidence-based treatment types available in the UK: orthokeratology (night lenses), daily soft lenses, and myopia control glasses. Flexibility is key as your child’s needs evolve. For example, many children start with glasses, and move to lenses as their confidence builds. - Advanced technology
A crucial aspect of effective management is regularly tracking axial length. Ensure the clinic uses up-to-date equipment that can do this accurately. - Customisation
Especially with ortho-k lenses, precise fitting and ongoing adjustments by a skilled optometrist can make a significant difference in outcomes. - Transparent pricing
Be wary of unusually low costs. High-quality care includes advanced technology, specialist knowledge, and comprehensive follow-up and that comes at a price. While Cameron Optometry may not be the cheapest, we’ve consistently delivered encouraging results for children over the past ten years.
Sadly, we’re seeing an increasing number of families come to us after months or even years spent elsewhere, only to learn that their child’s myopia hasn’t been properly managed. Remember: once myopia progresses, it cannot be undone.
That’s why choosing the right eye care provider from the outset is so important. Take the time to select a team that offers proven results, trusted expertise, and a truly child-centred approach to care.
Find out more about Myopia Management – slowing the progression of myopia in children.
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