Refractive Error / Myopia

Myopia

Myopia makes distant objects look blurred while nearer objects usually remain clearer. It is a common condition that often begins in childhood and can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or, for suitable adults, refractive surgery.

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Cross-section diagram of a myopic eye showing light focusing in front of the retina
WHAT IS MYOPIA

Why distance vision blurs

Most often, the eye is too long relative to its focusing power. This means light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it, causing distant objects to look blurry.

SIGNS OF SHORT-SIGHTEDNESS

Signs to look out for

Myopia often becomes noticeable when distant objects start to look blurred. In children, these common signs may be present.

Distant objects look blurry or out of focus

Squinting to see the board or road signs

Sitting very close to the TV or screen

Tired or strained eyes at the end of the day

Holding phones and books close to the face

A steadily increasing prescription

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WHEN MYOPIA IS PROGRESSING

How the eye grows

In many children, increasing myopia is associated with continued lengthening of the eye. Glasses or contact lenses correct blurred vision, while myopia-control treatments are designed to help slow further progression. Monitoring prescription changes — and, when appropriate, axial length — can help guide treatment over time.

A changing prescription may indicate continuing progression

Children with the same prescription can progress at different rates

Earlier intervention can be considered once progression is established

Why Myopia matters beyond blurred distance vision ?

Higher levels of myopia are associated with increased risks of other eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma and myopic macular changes. Managing myopia early is about protecting long-term eye health.

Slow the progression. Correct the blur.

If your child's prescription is increasing over time, or if distance vision is becoming more difficult, regular monitoring is important. Book an eye examination to stay on top of changes.

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WHEN TO BOOK AN ASSESSMENT

When a specialist assessment is worthwhile

A strong family history of myopia, especially high myopia

Your child's myopia is increasing over time

Myopia began at a young age, is progressing fast or is already high

You are considering refractive surgery as an adult

Regular eye examinations help protect both vision and long-term eye health.
Book an assessment for you or your child.
Book an eye examination
TREATMENT OPTIONS

Care tailored to age and needs

Children and teenagers

Options to help slow progression may include:

The right option depends on the child's age, prescription, lifestyle and response to treatment.

Adults with stable myopia

We offer a range of ways to correct distance vision:

A full assessment will determine the most appropriate option for your eyes.

Not every treatment is suitable for every patient. A full assessment with our eye care specialists is essential.

“Best pediatric ophthalmology care in Saigon. JD saved our child’s vision.”

Tran Nguyen — Google Review

Meet your specialist

Care led by specialists you'll meet in person.

Dr. JD Ferwerda
Lead Ophthalmologist · Cataract and Retina Surgeon

Dr. JD Ferwerda, MD

Dr. JD Ferwerda, MD: Dutch-trained ophthalmologist specialising in cataracts, lens exchange, retinal disease, glaucoma, and AMD.

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Dr. Artem Kozhechenkov
Refractive Surgeon

Dr. Artem Kozhechenkov, MD

Russian-trained refractive and general ophthalmologist, leads lasik/ laser vision correction at EEC

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