Environmental Modifications

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Rockyview Health Centre, 1011 Glenmore Trail SW Building #1 Suite 423, Calgary, AB T2V 4R6, Canada
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Mission
We are passionate about your eyes, and about building long-lasting relationships. Our goal is to ensure your eyes remain healthy throughout your life. We are all about service, love, kindness and a belief in strong community. Through our holistic approach to caring for you and our dedication to learning, we pioneer carefully researched new treatments, technology, and products to help ensure eye health.

Myopia and Eye Health

Childhood is an important time to think about myopia because myopic children tend to become more myopic over time. The age of onset of myopia is one of the most important predictors of severe myopia later in life. With high myopia the risk of developing potentially sight-threatening complications such as Glaucoma, Retinal Detachment and Cataracts later in life increase exponentially (as seen in the chart below)

Emmetropia = 1x Cataract Glaucoma Retinal Detachment Macular Degeneration
-1.00 to -3.00 2 x 4 x 4 x 2 x
-3.00 to -6.00 3 x 4 x 10 x 41 x
-6.00 or greater 5 x 4 x 16 x 126 x

Potential Complications

Retinal detachments – where the tissue at the back of the eye detaches from the eyeball.

Myopic macular degeneration – degeneration of the area responsible for sharp vision.

Glaucoma – degeneration of the optic nerve responsible for transmitting signals from the eye to the brain
Cataract – the lens in the eye that is responsible for focusing becomes cloudy.

It is important to note that the risk of these complications increase with age and are more likely to occur with higher amounts of myopia. These conditions can often be treated but do pose a risk for permanent vision loss.

myopia

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Clinical research has demonstrated that we can slow the increase in myopia in children safely and effectively using optical and pharmaceutical treatments. 

Types of vision correction Effects on slowing myopic progression
normal glasses and standard contact lens 0-5%
progressive and multifocal lens 12 – 55%
MyoVision™ Lenses 0 – 30%
Miyosmart Lenses 60%
MiSight Contact Lenses 59%
Atropine Drops 50 – 80% 
Orthokeratology 40 – 90 %
Essilor Stellest Lenses 67 %

Treatment Options

Miyosmart Lenses

The Miyosmart lenses are a new spectacle lens designed by Hoya to help slow down the progression of myopia. This myopia control lens uses a breakthrough technology called D.I.M.S (Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments) where the central portion of the lens contains the full glasses prescription allowing for clear vision and the periphery is surrounded by several defocus segments. These segments alter the peripheral focus of light along the back of the eye in such a way that it signals to the eye to slow down its growth.

Based on a 2-year clinical trial published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, the Miyosmart lens was shown to reduce both myopia progression and axial length (length of the eyeball) by 60% compared to children wearing single vision glasses lenses. Learn More with Dr. Jessica

Essilor Stellest Lenses

The Essilor Stellest lenses are the newest spectacle lens designed to help slow down the progression of myopia. This lens is a unique constellation of lenslets that help create a signal to slow down eye elongation and myopia progression. In a two-year clinical trial, the Stellest lens showed reduced myopia progression by 67% and the eye growth of 9/10 children wearing the lens was similar to or slower than non-myopic children. Ask our Optometrists if the Stellest lens is right for you and/or your child.

MiYOSMART iQ Lenses

MiYOSMART iQ is an advanced myopia-control lens from HOYA Vision Care that uses D.I.M.S. Technology. It provides a clear vision while helping manage myopia progression in children. Learn More

Soft or Hard Multifocal Contact Lenses

Interested in multifocal contact lenses?  Soft or hard multifocal contact lenses cause the peripheral vision to blur in order to slow down the progression of Myopia.  These contact lenses focus light in front of the retina and slow the growth of the eye.  Multifocal lenses are worn every day during the day and not at night.

 

Atropine Drops

Atropine drops are a pharmaceutical eye drop that has shown potential to slow down the progression of Myopia. Low dose Atropine has minimal effects on pupil dilation causing light sensitivity, less accommodation (ability to focus at near objects), and near vision. This is a great option for patients who are not candidates for Orthokeratology, or for younger patients.

Brilliant Futures™ MiSight® 1 day Lenses
MiSight® 1 day is the first soft contact lens to slow down the progression of myopia.  It is a daily disposable lens which has show to slow down myopia progression by 59%. Learn More in our video with Dr. Jessica. Read More

Orthokeratology

Looking for contact lenses for nearsightedness?  Orthokeratology uses customized contact lenses for corneal reshaping of the eye to improve vision. Orthokeratology is a non-surgical and reversible way to reshape the cornea.  It’s a great alternative to LASIK or PRK for those reluctant or unable to undergo laser refractive surgery and looking for an alternative to wearing glasses or contacts during the day. Orthokeratology is the optical equivalent of dental braces.  A retainer lens is worn overnight while sleeping and gently molds or reshapes the cornea thus creating a sharpened image upon awakening.  The cornea retains its shape during the day and good vision is maintained all waking hours.  The process is repeated each night, although some find they only need to wear their molds on alternate nights.  According to the foregoing table, studies show that Orthokeratology has been the most effective method for reducing and slowing the progression of Myopia, particularly for those whose eye prescription is below -5.00D. Learn More with Dr. Jessica 

Book your Myopia Management Consultation  

Environmental Modifications

Some studies show that changing day-to-day activities can naturally help decrease the severity of Myopia.  Suggestions include:

  • going outside more often (walk or participate in other outdoor activities) for a minimum of 2 hours correlates with later onset and a reduction in Myopia, Read more
  • taking breaks from the computer screen and following the 20/20/20 rule (looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes),
  • keeping a good working distance of 16 inches for adults and 12-13 inches for younger children when working up close (Harmon’s distance).
  • keeping a good working distance of 16 inches for adults and 12-13 inches for younger children when working up close (Harmon’s distance).
  • encourage healthy sleep habits such as going to bed early, reducing bright light exposure prior to bedtime, and getting the recommended 9-11 hours per night in school-age children. Read more
  • high levels of digital smart device usage were associated with almost a 30% higher risk of myopia. This risk increased to nearly 80% when excessive computer screen time was combined. This research highlights the importance of monitoring digital device usage in children for ocular health and myopia management. Read more
    A friendly reminder for our parents for kids:A. Ages 0-2 no screen time (exception video chatting with parental supervision)B. Ages 2-5 no more than 1 hour per dayC. Ages 5-18 no more than 2 hours per day

References:

Padmaja Sankaridurg, PhD, BOptom, MIP, Review of Optometry, February 2017

Saraswathi Eye Hospital. http://high-myopia-eye-hospital.com/low-myopia/

https://www.clspectrum.com/issues/2014-march-2014-contact-lens-design-materials

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Advanced Myopia Control for Children

Recent randomized controlled clinical trial results presented at the ARVO 2026 Annual Meeting showed promising results for children aged 4–12. Among the 196 children who completed the study, those wearing MiYOSMART iQ showed no average myopia progression after 12 months. The study also found that excessive axial eye growth was reduced to levels below or comparable to those seen in children without refractive errors.

Designed to Help Control Myopia Progression

Myopia, commonly known as short-sightedness, can progress during childhood as the eye grows excessively. Managing myopia earlier in life may help reduce the impact of continued progression and the associated risks of high myopia later in life.

MiYOSMART iQ builds on the established D.I.M.S. Technology used in MiYOSMART lenses and introduces a Triple Enhanced Design (TED). This design incorporates three key enhancements:

  1. Defocus Segments Closer to the Center: The segments are positioned closer to the geometric center of the lens to provide continued exposure to myopic defocus across the near-peripheral retina.
  2. Higher Defocus Power: The lens provides a stronger myopic defocus signal intended to support myopia control.
  3. Extended Treatment Zone: A larger treatment area provides broader coverage of the child’s peripheral visual field, including when larger frames are used.

Clinical Results Across Different Age Groups

The clinical trial included children between 4 and 12 years of age, with results demonstrating myopia-control efficacy across the age groups studied.

For children aged 4–6 years, MiYOSMART iQ demonstrated 65% efficacy in spherical equivalent refractive error (SER) and 44% efficacy in axial length over 12 months. For children aged 7–12 years, the lens demonstrated over 100% efficacy in SER and 94% efficacy in axial length during the same period.

The study also reported a high level of compliance with daily, all-day wear among children across the age groups studied.

Built on Established D.I.M.S. Technology

MiYOSMART iQ represents an evolution of MiYOSMART, a myopia-control lens technology backed by more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific publications. The updated lens design builds on research into how the eye responds to myopic defocus and focuses on delivering a stronger and more consistently positioned defocus signal.

Since its launch in 2018, more than 15 million MiYOSMART spectacle lenses have been purchased by parents across more than 50 countries worldwide.

Supporting Earlier Myopia Management

The clinical findings for MiYOSMART iQ include children as young as four years old, representing an important development in spectacle-lens-based myopia control. Early-onset myopia can progress during a critical period of childhood eye development, making appropriate management an important consideration for children with progressive myopia.

MiYOSMART iQ provides an advanced spectacle-lens option for children who require myopia management. An eye care professional can assess your child’s vision and determine whether this type of lens is appropriate for their individual needs.

Supporting Ocular Surface Healing and Comfort

The membrane contains natural growth factors and anti-inflammatory properties. When placed over the cornea, it acts as a protective layer that supports healing and may help reduce inflammation.

Potential Benefits

  • Supports Healing: Helps promote natural healing of the eye’s surface.
  • Reduces Inflammation: Its natural properties may help calm inflammation.
  • Improves Comfort: May help relieve discomfort related to dry eye.
  • Supports Recovery: Helps support the healing of the ocular surface.

Who May Benefit?

Amniotic Membrane Therapy may be suitable for people with moderate to severe dry eye, particularly when conventional treatments have not provided enough relief. An eye care professional can assess your eyes and determine if this treatment is appropriate.

How Does It Work?

The amniotic membrane is the innermost layer of the placenta and contains growth factors and anti-inflammatory properties. During treatment, a specially prepared membrane is placed over the eye’s surface to act as a biological covering and support healing.

What to Expect

Before treatment, your optometrist will examine your eyes and determine whether Amniotic Membrane Therapy is suitable for you.

  • Before Treatment: The eye is numbed with topical anesthetic drops, and the area is prepared.
  • Membrane Placement: The preserved and sterilized membrane is placed over the cornea.
  • After Placement: A special contact lens may be used to hold the membrane in place.
  • Post-Treatment Care: Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops may be prescribed when needed.
  • Follow-Up: Regular visits help monitor healing and the membrane’s absorption or integration.
Some patients may experience mild discomfort, a foreign body sensation, or temporary blurred vision after treatment. Improvement in symptoms may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the individual.

Understanding Dry Eye and Your Treatment Options

Dry eye can develop for several reasons, and understanding the underlying cause is an important part of managing symptoms. Our team can assess your eyes and help develop a management plan based on your individual needs.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye can affect both eyes and may cause different symptoms, including:

  • Stinging or Burning – A burning, stinging, or gritty feeling in the eyes.
  • Eye Redness – Red or irritated eyes.
  • Light Sensitivity – Increased sensitivity to light.
  • Excessive Watering – Eyes that water more than usual.
  • Blurred Vision or Eye Fatigue – Blurry vision or tired, strained eyes.
  • Foreign Body Sensation – A feeling that something is in your eye.

What Causes Dry Eye?

A healthy tear film has several components that work together to keep the surface of the eye comfortable and protected. Dry eye can occur when tear production decreases or when tears evaporate too quickly.

Several factors may contribute to dry eye, including:

  • Aging
  • Allergies
  • Hormonal changes
  • Eyelid problems
  • Gland dysfunction
  • Certain health conditions
  • Living in a dry climate
  • Extended screen time

One common factor is blockage of the Meibomian glands, which produce the lipid layer of the tear film. When these glands are not functioning properly, tear evaporation can increase and contribute to dry eye symptoms.

A Personalized Approach to Dry Eye Management

Managing dry eye involves more than simply using eye drops. Our team can help develop a personalized plan that may include targeted in-office treatments, nutritional guidance, and home care based on your needs. 

Home care may include:

  • Warm Compresses: Used as part of a regular eye-care routine.
  • Lid Hygiene: Keeping the eyelids and surrounding area clean.
  • Artificial Tears: May be recommended to help manage dryness and discomfort.

In-Office Treatment Options

For patients with more severe dry eye symptoms, targeted in-office treatments may be considered. Available options include:

  • Radiofrequency
  • Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL)
  • LipiFlow Therapy

These treatments may be used as part of dry eye management for symptoms such as burning, itching, redness, and irritation. The appropriate approach depends on the underlying factors contributing to your symptoms.

Managing Your Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye can have several contributing factors, so treatment is not the same for everyone. A thorough assessment can help identify factors affecting your tear film and determine which management options may be appropriate.

If you are experiencing persistent dryness, irritation, redness, light sensitivity, or other symptoms, speak with our eye care team about your dry eye management options.

Deep Cleansing for Healthier Eyelids and Lashes

ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) is an in-office eyelid cleaning and debridement treatment developed by Zocular®. It is designed to clean the eyelids and lashes while helping address concerns associated with dry eye, blepharitis, and demodex.

The treatment uses a natural, okra-based gel to remove oil, debris, and residue from the eyelid margins and lashes. By improving eyelid hygiene, ZEST can help reduce the buildup that may contribute to irritation and inflammation around the eyes.

What Is ZEST?

ZEST works like a deep cleansing treatment for the eyelids and lashes. During the procedure, the okra-based gel is applied along the eyelid margins and lashes using a cotton swab. The gel is gently worked into a lather using circular motions before being rinsed away with saline solution.
The gel contains a refined extract of okra, an edible green seed pod. According to the provided product information, okra helps lift and clear oil, debris, and residue while being gentle around the eye area.

How Can ZEST Help?

Keeping the eyelids, eyelid margins, and lashes clean is an important part of eye hygiene. Buildup along the eyelid edges can contribute to symptoms such as itching, burning, gritty sensations, redness, and irritation.

ZEST is designed to address this buildup through thorough cleansing and debridement.

  • Removes Debris: Helps clear dirt, oil, and residue from the eyelid margins and lashes.
  • Supports Eyelid Hygiene: Provides a deeper cleansing treatment than routine eyelid cleaning.
    Addresses Demodex: The treatment is designed to help remove demodex mites and associated debris.
  • Helps Reduce Inflammation: Cleansing the eyelid area may help address buildup associated with irritation and inflammation.
  • Supports Dry Eye Care: ZEST may help relieve symptoms associated with dry eye and poor eyelid hygiene.

ZEST for Dry Eye, Blepharitis, and Demodex

Dry eye and blepharitis can be associated with inadequate eyelid hygiene. Debris along the eyelid margins can enter the tear film with blinking, potentially contributing to redness and irritation.

Demodex mites can also be present in the hair follicles around the eyelashes. According to the provided information, they may contribute to inflammation and dry eye symptoms by blocking the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes.

ZEST provides targeted cleansing of the eyelid margins and lashes to help remove this buildup and address demodex-related concerns.

A Simple In-Office Treatment

The ZEST procedure is performed in the office and involves applying the cleansing gel to the eyelid margins and lashes, working it into a lather, and then rinsing the area with saline solution. The treatment is designed to provide thorough eyelid and lash cleansing without requiring a lengthy procedure.

Is ZEST Right for You?

ZEST may be considered for patients experiencing symptoms associated with dry eye, blepharitis, demodex, or eyelid debris. An eye care professional can assess your symptoms and determine whether ZEST is appropriate for your eye care needs.
587-317-2134