Vision Therapy in Wexford

Myopia FAQs

(724) 935-9999

1. What is Myopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common condition in which distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. Myopia tends to progress until around the age of 21, and during this time, a child's vision deteriorates, often requiring more frequent updates of their corrective lenses.

young girl doing homework


girl in eye exam

2. What Causes Myopia Progression?

The exact causes of myopia progression are not fully understood, but several factors have been associated with it:

  • Myopia tends to run in families, so if parents are nearsighted, their children are more likely to develop myopia.
  • Extensive studying, reading, and activities that involve focusing on nearby objects can contribute to myopia progression.
  • The increasing use of electronic devices, especially when held close to the eyes, is thought to play a role in myopia development.
  • Spending less time outdoors may increase the risk of myopia progression.

3. Why is Myopia Progression a Concern?

The progression of myopia is concerning as it's strongly associated with an increased risk of ocular diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment later in life.


4. What If My Child Wears Glasses or Soft Contact Lenses?

Even if your child regularly wears glasses or soft contact lenses to correct their myopia, the condition may continue to progress. Conventional corrective methods often address symptoms but don't tackle the root cause, which involves the elongation of the eyeball.


5. How Can I Prevent My Child's Vision from Getting Worse?

To help prevent myopia progression, consider making lifestyle changes, including:

Reducing Screen Time: Limit screen time, and encourage breaks during prolonged use of digital devices.

Encouraging Frequent Breaks While Studying: Ensure your child takes regular breaks when studying or reading.

Increasing Outdoor Play: Encourage outdoor activities and playtime.

Adjusting Their Study Posture: Ensure proper posture during near work, avoiding sitting too close to screens or materials. 

Additional treatment may be necessary, depending on the level of your child’s myopia. Some of these options may include:

  • Atropine Drops
  • Orthokeratology (ortho-k)
  • Dual Focus Contact Lenses

6. What Is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, is a non-surgical procedure designed to reduce nearsightedness. It involves the therapeutic application of specially designed contact lenses to reshape the cornea, the front part of the eye, overnight. This can effectively correct nearsightedness and certain types of astigmatism.

Ortho-k offers a promising solution for managing progressive myopia while providing the freedom of being glasses or contact lens-free during the day. Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing myopia progression, thus reducing the risk of ocular diseases.


mom reading book to child

7. Is Myopia Management Suitable for Adults or Only for Children?

Myopia management strategies are often most effective when initiated during childhood, as this is when myopia tends to progress most rapidly. However, certain approaches, such as orthokeratology (ortho-k), may also benefit adults. It's crucial to consult your EyeCare Specialties Pediatric & Adult eye doctor to determine the best approach for your specific situation.


8. How Often Should My Child's Eyes Be Examined for Myopia Progression?

Regular eye examinations are essential to monitor myopia progression. The frequency of these exams will depend on your child's age, myopia severity, and risk factors. Annual eye check-ups are generally recommended, but some cases may require more frequent visits.


9. Are There Any Side Effects or Risks Associated with Myopia Management Treatments?

Most myopia management treatments are safe and non-invasive, but awareness of potential side effects is essential. For instance, ortho-k lenses may cause temporary discomfort or dryness. Atropine eye drops may lead to increased sensitivity to light. Your EyeCare Specialties Pediatric & Adult eye doctor will discuss these potential side effects and help you decide on the right approach for your child.

Patient Reviews
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- Nov. 26, 2024
Dr Prazer is fantastic and the staff here is so friendly and helpful!
- Sep. 28, 2024
Excellent professional and friendly care in a beautiful facility. Dr. Prazer was wonderful.
- Sep. 20, 2024
Dr. Prazer is top notch in his field with over 40 years experience treating concussions and its all ... encompassing impact on vision and the brain. He is kind, empathetic and reassuring. Dr. Prazer explained the specialized test for a person with a concussion and it's impact. I am an RN and highly recommend Dr. Prazer. The staff are welcoming, efficient and genuinely care. Thank you !
- Sep. 11, 2024
My son had an eye injury over the weekend and was treated at a children's urgent care. By Monday, hi... s eye was still hurting, so I called to see if any appointments were available. Although the doctors were fully booked, the scheduling team went above and beyond, working with the doctors to squeeze us in. I truly appreciated their effort and care in getting my son seen promptly.
- Aug. 28, 2024
Such a great and caring place!! Explained every step to my daughter and made sure I understood every... thing! Highly recommend!
- Aug. 18, 2024
Great examination by doctor!! Staff super friendly and helpful!!
- Aug. 09, 2024
Excellent services.
- Aug. 06, 2024
Everything was super excellent
- Jul. 19, 2024
Excellent staff and great service! Both my boys go here for yearly check ups, glasses, contact lense... s and unplanned glasses repairs and the staff is always there to help! Highly recommended!
- Jul. 16, 2024
Pediatric & Adult Vision Care gives amazing eye care. The staff and doctors are top notch!! The hav... e the best selection of eyeware around!!
- Jul. 03, 2024
Caring, friendly professional
- Jun. 26, 2024
In my 44 years of my life this is the only eye care facility that has the highest amount of care. No... thing compares to this eye care team. I saw them back in 2018 and I now live in Ohio going to make an appointment to go back no one cares more about your eyes then at Pediatric eye care.
- Jun. 23, 2024
Both of my children have benefited greatly from the care of this office. I trust their medical skill... s, and they are also kind and fun to work with. We drive far to get there and it is worth it.
- May. 08, 2024
Dr. Prazer is great. Explains things in everyday language. I have used Dr. Prazer for years and high... ly recommend him.
- May. 05, 2024
Great people, great results.
- May. 03, 2024
Always pleasant, prompt, helpful and compassionate. Love how much Dr. Prazer knows about nutrition... and his other aspects of health and wellness work together with eye care.
- Apr. 21, 2024
I never want to go anywhere else for eye care. Everyone at this practice is so kind, considerate, an... d highly knowledgeable.
- Apr. 12, 2024
It was immediate love at first sight! Not only did the elevator open to an enormous gorgeous space, ... but I was greeted by a knowledgeable, welcoming team of Opticians at Eyecare. I arrived a little late after a difficult and stressful day, but they embraced me with open arms, and we got to work. This was my first visit so I had to complete some New Patient paperwork, however they helped me with completion so not to delay my time there. My evaluation with Nicole and Dr. Shuster was brief but quite thorough.  It’s always a little nerve wracking when you’re meeting a new medical team, but They made me feel comfortable, listened and answered questions I had about my prescription and plan. Then came the fun part and my primary reason for scheduling with them! I was skeptical that they would not meet my expectations in terms of frame options, as I have been disappointed and looking for fun funky frames for over a year. Believe me when I say, I was pleasantly surprised! Suzanne who I had spoken with before my appt to confirm, listened to my preferences and had already set aside some frames for me to try. Then, despite me being there at the end of the night, Bailey and Cherie spent considerable time while I tried on as many frames as I could.  Now, I’ll admit I am a tough critic and quite particular looking for specific shapes and dramatic colors.  When you’ve worn glasses long enough, you know what you want.  Well I may not have found what I thought I was looking for, but they opened my eyes to other options, and now I have to make a difficult decision on one or another, or maybe both! They offer a variety of high-end brands, but are reasonably priced, and they have some amazing bargains to take advantage of.  Plus, they are open later, which is hard to find, and I am so thankful for, with my work schedule.  They informed me that get new inventory pretty frequently which was music to my ears! Either way, I will be buying and will without a doubt be returning to work with this amazing team and selection of frames!  I encourage all of you who have imperfect vision to go explore.  I was referred by a very satisfied friend, and now I want to do the referring!  If it’s your first time, they will guide you!   I promise you will not regret it!
- Mar. 06, 2024
I am starting my second year with Dr. Shuster. I was sent to her from an eye doctor who had concern... s about my eyes. Dr. Shuster is knowledgeable and treats me with compassion. I am very grateful to have been sent to Pediatric & Adult Vision Care.
- Jan. 30, 2024
My husband and I have been coming here for a few years and we love it. Everyone is so professional a... nd kind. We even get to have our appointment together which is fun & saves us some time.

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Myopia Management in Wexford

Our optometry practice in Wexford

Photograph of Robert  Prazer
Hours
  • Monday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Tuesday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 1:30 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Spectera
  • Davis Vision
  • National Vision Administration (NVA)
  • EyeMed
  • VBA
  • Blue Cross
  • MetLife
  • Aetna
  • UPMC Health Plan

man adjusting glasses

10. Is Myopia Management Expensive, and Does Insurance Cover It?

The cost of myopia management can vary based on the chosen treatment method and location. Some treatments, like ortho-k, may involve initial higher costs but could reduce long-term expenses related to prescription updates and potential eye health issues. Schedule an appointment with EyeCare Specialties Pediatric & Adult today to understand the specific costs and coverage options.

(724) 935-9999