Vision Therapy in North Richland Hills

Scientific Research on Myopia Management

(817) 281-3386

Exploring the Science Behind Nearsightedness

Myopia, often known as nearsightedness, is a common vision disorder affecting millions worldwide. While genetics play a significant role, environmental factors contribute to its progression, with high myopia posing serious risks to eye health.

Researchers and clinicians worldwide are committed to finding solutions to tackle the rising myopia epidemic. Scientific research and clinical trials deepen our understanding of this condition and allow for effective management strategies.

smiling boy with toys


squinting woman adjusting glasses

Understanding Myopia Progression

Myopia typically results from axial lengthening in the eye. To address this, researchers have focused on several promising areas:

  • Spectacle Correction

    Glasses have long been studied to inhibit myopia progression. However, while some designs have shown promise, not all have been clinically effective. Recent advancements like the Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) spectacle lens, designed to induce myopic defocus, have yielded encouraging results. Reducing axial length by 0.30 mm over two years offers a potential solution for myopia control, particularly for children.

  • Outdoor Sunlight

    Increasing outdoor time during school has shown a modest but tangible effect on reducing myopia progression. Studies suggest that 40 extra minutes of outdoor exposure daily can make a significant difference. However, the implementation has been challenging, and more research is needed to evaluate the long-term impact across diverse populations.

  • Low-dose Atropine

    Low-dose atropine treatment has gained popularity, particularly after studies like the Atropine for the Treatment of Myopia (ATOM) series. While the 0.01% concentration has shown effectiveness, the Low-Concentration Atropine for Myopia Progression (LAMP) study suggests that higher concentrations may offer more profound results. Atropine is easy to implement, especially for young children, with minimal side effects. However, long-term data regarding potential ocular toxicity is still pending.


Controlling Myopia with Contact Lenses

In recent years, contact lenses have emerged as a promising avenue for myopia control:

  • Orthokeratology

    Orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses, worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, have shown promise in reducing axial elongation by 55% after 24 months. However, these lenses have limitations and may not correct higher levels of myopia.

  • MiSight Contact Lenses

    The FDA-approved daily wear MiSight lens is a breakthrough in myopia control. Its dual-focus design creates myopic defocus and has demonstrated a reduction in myopia progression and axial length. This daily disposable lens offers an alternative to ortho-k, providing clear vision during the day without lenses. The ongoing MiSight clinical trial aims to provide more insights into its long-term efficacy and safety.

Patient Reviews
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214 Reviews
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- Nov. 02, 2024
Dr Barber was very thorough and knowledgeable. I never felt rushed and I felt like he answered all m... y concerns.
- Oct. 30, 2024
I'm so thankful for Dr Barber at SW Vision Center. Although I'll dearly miss Dr Mario, both of thes... e docs are extremely knowledgeable. My vision is somewhat tricky due to normal scar tissue from RK 30 years ago. After seeing at least 5 docs who had no idea what they were doing and giving me prescriptions that never worked, Dr Mario recommended I just buy several strengths of readers (over 15 years ago). That was perfect until the last few months. I reluctantly had a prescription done with Dr Barbara last week and feel like I can see so much better now!
- Oct. 17, 2024
Very professional staff that listens. Dr. Barber does a wonderful job in listening and then finding... the solution.
- Aug. 27, 2024
Great Staff, very thorough eye exam. Nice selection of frames.
- Aug. 16, 2024
My appointment went really great! The office teams was friendly and efficient; just what I am looki... ng for at an appointment.
- Jul. 15, 2024
Dr Haley Vadilko is awesome! All of the staff are amazing! I would recommend to anyone.
- May. 18, 2024
Great friendly staff
- May. 09, 2024
Staff are all very friendly, doctor is thorough and they have early hours.
- May. 07, 2024
Dr. Vasilko and her staff are amazing. Definitely the best experience I've had for glasses and conta... cts (and I've been wearing glasses since I was in first grade). Courtney helped me pick frames that flattered my face and everything went great. Keep up the great work!
- Apr. 03, 2024
EXCELLENT! You know when some folks enter a room and the energy changes for the better! THAT was m... y experience with Dr. Mario Contaldi! He was VERY helpful and made it a GREAT visit. I'd give 10 stars if I could!
- Feb. 21, 2024
Dr. Vasilko is a great optometrist. Very informative and was quick to diagnose the problem my left e... ye was having! I will be coming back for future eye problems.
- Feb. 20, 2024
Great optometrist. Quick. Easy appointment and answered all my questions. The selection of glasses i... s immense. By far, the best selection of glasses in one place I have ever seen. The prices are reasonable. Recommended. The staff is knowledgable and easy to work with.
- Feb. 04, 2024
Great service for a perfect prescription!
- Dec. 28, 2023
Dr. Contaldi is the BEST!
- Nov. 14, 2023
I enjoy the personalized experience at Southwest Vision Center! The staff is super friendly, and th... ey make my yearly eye exams super easy.
- Nov. 02, 2023
Highly recommend. I no longer need reading glasses to read fine print due to RX change. Plus saved... money on contacts. Very nice staff. Best ever!
- Oct. 26, 2023
Great service! Friendly, welcoming, and professional. I'm glad I found them so close to where I live... .
- Sep. 01, 2023
Great staff and Doctor. Always friendly and professional.
- Aug. 22, 2023
Very nice experience, and I love my new glasses.
- Aug. 10, 2023
I've been going here since I was in elementary school, now I'm in my 30s! They've always been helpfu... l and staff has always been great. Definitely trust them with my vision!

View All 214 Reviews

Myopia Management in North Richland Hills

Our optometry practice in North Richland Hills

Photograph of David  Barber
Hours
  • Monday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross

woman putting in contact

Southwest Vision Center: Pioneering Myopia Management

There have been various scientific breakthroughs in myopia management. However, the choice of treatment depends on the child's age, preferences, and eye condition.

At Southwest Vision Center, we are committed to keeping up with the latest advances in myopia management research and providing you with the best possible care. Our top priority is your child's eye health. Visit us today and explore the latest advancements in myopia care for healthy eyes and clear vision.

(817) 281-3386