OK Lenses, Defocus Glasses, or Atropine: How to Choose for Myopia Control?

As the new school year approaches,
children’s backpacks fill with dreams and curiosity—
but are their eyes ready to explore the world?
Equip them with vision protection for a clearer future.
With multiple myopia control options, how to decide?
Optical Options: OK Lenses vs. Defocus Glasses
Orthokeratology Lenses (OK Lenses)
Mechanism: Gas-permeable rigid lenses reshape the corneal epithelium overnight via fluid dynamics, creating myopic defocus. Provides clear daytime vision without glasses.



Benefits:
Effective axial length control (slows myopia progression).
Daytime freedom from glasses.
Limitations:
Requires age ≥8, strong compliance, and hygiene awareness.
High cost (replacement every 12–18 months).
Demanding care: daily cleaning, regular follow-ups.
Defocus Glasses
Mechanism: Specialty lenses create peripheral myopic defocus to stabilize refractive error. Must be worn full-time.
Benefits:
Reduces visual fatigue, improves comfort.
Suitable for all ages.
Limitations:
Inconsistent wear compromises efficacy.
Less convenient for sports/active lifestyles.
Pharmacological Option: Low-Concentration Atropine
Mechanism: A parasympathetic inhibitor that relaxes the ciliary muscle. The only evidence-based drug proven to delay myopia progression.
Efficacy:
60% reduction in progression over 2 years (e.g., 100D/year → 40D/year).
Eligibility:
Ages 4–16 with true myopia ≥50D and rapid progression (≥75D/year).
Which Is Better? Can They Be Combined?
No universal "best" option—choice depends on:
Age, compliance, myopia severity, lifestyle.

Key Considerations

OK Lenses:
Ideal for compliant children ≥8 years.
Combines well with atropine (synergistic effect).
Defocus Glasses:
Lower barrier to entry (no age limit).
Avoid combining with OK lenses (similar optical mechanisms).
Low-Concentration Atropine:
Suitable for younger children (≥4 years).
Can be used alone or combined with optical methods (e.g., OK lenses).
Combination Strategies
OK Lenses + Atropine: Enhanced efficacy (1+1>2), but requires strict medical supervision.
Defocus Glasses + Atropine: Optional for children unsuited to OK lenses.
Note: All combination therapies must be guided by an ophthalmologist.
Final Recommendation
Young children (4–8): Start with atropine ± defocus glasses.
Older, compliant children (≥8): OK lenses ± atropine.
Non-compliant or active children: Defocus glasses ± atropine.
Tailor the plan to your child’s needs—the best control is personalized!