The Myopia Management Assessment fee of $175 is an annual fee that covers all testing for the course of 1 year.
The goal of this appointment is to acquire detailed baseline measurements to enable us to monitor progression over time. The following testing is performed:
AXIAL LENGTH MEASUREMENT
The IOL master is the gold standard in measuring the length of the eye. This measurement allows us to compare to age-matched population values and to monitor growth over time. Growth of the eye is expected through adolescent and teenage years, but too fast of growth results in progression of near-sightedness and stretching of the retinal and scleral tissue.
CYCLOPLEGIC REFRACTION
Measures the refractive correction (amount of near-sightedness, astigmatism). By using drops that dilate the pupil and relax the focusing muscles of the eye we get an extremely accurate and repeatable measurement. The drops result in temporary light sensitivity and blurred near vision for ~2-3 hours. It is recommended that you bring sunglasses for your child for after the appointment.
PACHYMETRY (CORNEAL THICKNESS)
The cornea is the clear, front surface of the eye. An important measurement to determine the structural strength of the eye and also useful to monitor if we choose a contact lens treatment option.
CORNEAL TOPOGRAPHY
The topographer gives us a detailed map of the front surface of the cornea. This measurement is important to determine if you are a candidate for contact lenses.
OPTOMAP WIDEFIELD RETINAL IMAGES
A high resolution photograph of the retinal surface. In a quickly growing eye, the retinal tissue becomes stretched over an enlarging surface area.
Plan to be at the office for ~1 hour for the initial assessment. As mentioned previously, your child will be dilated and the drops last ~2-3 hours.
You will be provided with Myopia Management information prior to your assessment. During your assessment, there will be a dedicated amount of time for discussion between the optometrist, parents/guardian and child in regards to treatment options. This is an excellent time to ask any questions!
It is strongly recommended that all family members that will be involved in decision making be present at the appointment.
Your child will be seen for an initial assessment, at 3 months, 6 months and 1 year at minimum. Additional visits may be necessary depending on progression and treatment success - any additional visits are still covered under the annual assessment fee.