If you’ve noticed your child holding screens close, squinting at distant signs, or updating their glasses every year, then it might be time for a comprehensive eye exam. Myopia (nearsightedness) is rising fast among children, but with early intervention, it doesn’t have to keep getting worse.
At Pacific Rims Optometry, our eye doctors offer soft contact lenses proven to slow myopia progression and support lifelong eye health.
What is Myopia in Children?
Myopia happens when the eye grows too long, causing distant objects to appear blurry. It usually begins in school-age children and worsens throughout adolescence, especially for children in urban areas like San Francisco, where outdoor play is limited and close-up activities dominate daily life.
Common Myopia Symptoms include:
- Blurry distance vision (e.g., can't see the board at school)
- Squinting to see faraway objects
- Holding books or devices close to the face
- Headaches or eye strain
- Needing frequent prescription updates
While many parents are aware of this condition, they often are not aware of the risks associated with myopia. Myopia doesn't just affect vision; moderate to high levels of myopia dramatically increase a child’s lifetime risk for retinal detachment, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts
How Soft Contact Lenses Help Manage Childhood Myopia
Soft contact lenses designed for myopia control do more than correct blurry vision. They also help reshape how light focuses on the retina, signalling the eye to slow down its abnormal growth. This dual function makes them one of the most effective non-surgical tools for managing childhood myopia.
Daily Comfort for Active Lifestyles
San Francisco’s children lead busy lives, from weekend hikes to after-school activities. Daily soft lenses like MiSight® provide clear, stable vision without the hassle of glasses. Because they’re single-use, there’s no need for cleaning routines. Just insert and toss.
Designed to Slow Eye Growth
MiSight lenses for myopia use a special dual-focus design. Part of the lens corrects distance vision, while another part creates peripheral defocus, sending a "stop signal" to the eye’s growth process. This science-backed design helps reduce the risk of high myopia and related complications later in life.
Safe and Easy for Children to Use
With the right care, contact lenses can be the perfect soluton for your child. Our experienced optometrists teach children how to insert, remove, and care for their lenses confidently, with support from both staff and parents.
Approved by the FDA for Myopia Control
MiSight® 1 Day was the first soft contact lens approved by the FDA specifically to slow the progression of myopia in children. Backed by over six years of clinical research, it’s trusted by thousands of optometrists and families across the U.S.
Backed by Our Team and Treehouse Eyes®
Pacific Rims Optometry is proud to partner with Treehouse Eyes®, the country’s leading myopia management service. This partnership allows us to deliver comprehensive, personalized plans that may include soft lenses, ortho-k, or medicated drops, depending on what suits your child best.
Give Your Child the Advantage of Better Vision in San Francisco, CA
Slowing down your child’s myopia progression doesn’t have to wait. With soft contact lenses proven to reduce long-term risks and improve everyday comfort, your child can see clearly and stay healthier for years to come.
Book your child's appointment at Pacific Rims Optometry in San Francisco to find out if soft contact lenses are right for your child’s myopia management plan.
Soft Contacts for Myopia FAQS
At what age can a child start wearing soft contact lenses for myopia control?
Children as young as eight can safely and successfully wear daily soft contact lenses like MiSight® 1 Day. Most children adapt quickly with proper instruction and support.
Are myopia control lenses different from regular contact lenses?
Yes. Myopia control lenses not only correct vision but also use a special optical design to slow the eye’s growth, helping reduce the risk of serious eye problems later in life.
Do contact lenses work better than glasses for myopia control?
Glasses correct vision but don’t slow progression. Contact lenses designed for myopia control are more effective because they directly influence how light focuses on the retina, which is key in managing eye growth.
How do I know if my child is a good candidate for soft contacts?
If your child has myopia and is responsible enough for basic hygiene habits, they may be a great candidate. We’ll perform a comprehensive eye exam to ensure lenses are safe and comfortable for them.