Why New Glasses Aren't Enough for Your Child's Worsening Myopia

Nearly 60% of 12-year-olds and 80% of teenagers in Singapore are short-sighted, but a leading eye doctor says simply updating glasses annually is not enough.

Dr Foo Li Lian, Head of the Myopia Service at the Singapore National Eye Centre, warns myopia is a chronic condition driven by abnormal elongation of the eye. This structural change increases the risk of high myopia, which can lead to retinal detachment, glaucoma, and vision loss later in life.

Evidence-based management now includes low-dose atropine eye drops and specialized spectacle lenses like DIMS or H.A.L.T., which clinical studies show can reduce progression by up to 71%. New consensus guidelines published in May in Singapore recommend these as first-line optical interventions for children aged six to 16.

Dr Foo stresses that waiting is not neutral-LASIK in adulthood does not reverse eye elongation or reduce associated risks. Parents should ask three key questions at the next eye check: How fast is the myopia progressing? Should axial length be measured? What evidence-based options are suitable for my child?