When it comes to managing myopia in children, not all eye care providers are equal. A true myopia control specialist offers more than routine exams — they provide targeted strategies to slow myopia progression and protect long-term vision.
Here’s how to identify the right one for your child before you make an appointment.
1. Look for Specialised Training
Your ideal specialist should:
- Have additional training in paediatric eye care and myopia management
- Stay updated on the latest research and treatment innovations
- Be experienced with children’s vision correction beyond standard glasses
2. Look for Evidence of Proven Results
It’s one thing for a clinic to list advanced tools like axial length measurement or retinal imaging — it’s another for them to show you how they use that technology to actually manage myopia. A great specialist will:
- Share before-and-after data from similar cases (without breaching privacy)
- Explain how each test informs treatment changes
- Be transparent about the frequency and purpose of each scan
At Optimax Eye Specialist and our award-winning paediatric division OptiKidz® — recognised by Parenthood in the Parents’ Choice Awards 2024 as the Best Myopia Control Centre for Children — our optometrists have an additional edge: they work with state-of-the-art equipment that many clinics simply don’t have access to. This investment means our specialists can detect and respond to changes earlier, giving children the best chance at stable, healthy vision. The right tools in the right hands make a good optometrist even better.
3. Evaluate Communication Skills
Myopia control is a partnership. Your specialist should:
- Explain findings clearly to both parent and child
- Offer actionable lifestyle recommendations
- Welcome questions without rushing you
4. Assess the Clinic Environment
A child-friendly clinic can make a big difference. Look for:
- Welcoming, comfortable spaces
- Short wait times
- Staff trained to work with children
5. Ask the Right Questions
Before booking, ask:
- What percentage of their patients are children with myopia?
- Which treatments do they offer, and why?
- How do they measure treatment success?
“The right myopia control specialist will treat your child like family — and their vision like a priority.”
Why It Matters
Choosing the right specialist means:
- Early detection of progression
- A customised plan that fits your child’s lifestyle
- Better long-term outcomes for eye health
FAQ
Q: Do I need a referral to see a myopia control specialist?
A: No — most clinics accept direct bookings from parents.
Q: How often should my child be seen?
A: Every 3–6 months for progress checks and plan adjustments.
Q: Can a regular optometrist manage myopia?
A: Some can, but a specialist with dedicated training and tools offers a higher level of care.
Ready to meet the right specialist? Find a myopia control specialist near you and give your child the vision care they deserve.
