
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is increasing rapidly among children around the world. At Bright Eyes, we have been helping young patients slow the progression of myopia for almost 20 years. During that time, we have seen excellent results with contact lenses and low dose atropine eye drops. Parents often ask a very important question: “What about glasses? Can glasses help slow myopia progression?”
After seeing strong outcomes reported by colleagues in other countries, I am excited to share that the United States FDA has now authorized Stellest, the first prescription glasses lens designed specifically for myopia control. Stellest lenses are now available in the United States, and we are proud to introduce them to our Bright Eyes families.
Stellest lenses look like regular glasses, but they contain more than one thousand tiny treatment lenslets in the periphery of the lens. These lenslets work together with the main prescription to create a gentle optical signal that helps slow the eye’s elongation. Since eye elongation is the physical cause of myopia progression, this design helps reduce how quickly a child’s vision worsens.
Parents appreciate that the center of the lens remains completely clear for crisp, comfortable vision during school, sports, and daily activities.
Older methods, such as bifocal styles or reducing lens power, were not successful in slowing myopia. Earlier myopia control designs used in other countries showed mixed results. Stellest lenses have demonstrated significantly stronger effectiveness, supported by published clinical studies.
Children adapt quickly to Stellest lenses. Because the treatment zone is in the periphery, most children notice little to no difference compared with regular glasses. Research shows minimal impact on contrast sensitivity, which means visual comfort remains high.
Stellest lenses fit well in most children’s frames. The lenslets can be seen if you look closely, but they are subtle and not distracting. Most families find that the glasses look almost identical to standard prescription eyewear.
Stellest lenses require no eye drops and no contact lens handling. Children simply wear their glasses consistently each day. Since success with myopia control depends on ongoing use, this simplicity is a real advantage for busy families.
We are excited to offer Stellest as a new option for slowing childhood myopia. If you are concerned about your child’s vision worsening, contact our office at 813-792-0637 or office@brighteyestampa.com to schedule a Myopia Control Consultation. During the visit, we will assess your child’s eye health and discuss whether Stellest lenses, contact lenses, orthokeratology, or atropine eye drops are the most appropriate choice.