Vision Therapy in Livonia

Scientific Research on Myopia Management

(734) 525-8170

Exploring the Science Behind Nearsightedness

Myopia, often known as nearsightedness, is a common vision disorder affecting millions worldwide. While genetics play a significant role, environmental factors contribute to its progression, with high myopia posing serious risks to eye health.

Researchers and clinicians worldwide are committed to finding solutions to tackle the rising myopia epidemic. Scientific research and clinical trials deepen our understanding of this condition and allow for effective management strategies.

smiling boy with toys


squinting woman adjusting glasses

Understanding Myopia Progression

Myopia typically results from axial lengthening in the eye. To address this, researchers have focused on several promising areas:

  • Spectacle Correction

    Glasses have long been studied to inhibit myopia progression. However, while some designs have shown promise, not all have been clinically effective. Recent advancements like the Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) spectacle lens, designed to induce myopic defocus, have yielded encouraging results. Reducing axial length by 0.30 mm over two years offers a potential solution for myopia control, particularly for children.

  • Outdoor Sunlight

    Increasing outdoor time during school has shown a modest but tangible effect on reducing myopia progression. Studies suggest that 40 extra minutes of outdoor exposure daily can make a significant difference. However, the implementation has been challenging, and more research is needed to evaluate the long-term impact across diverse populations.

  • Low-dose Atropine

    Low-dose atropine treatment has gained popularity, particularly after studies like the Atropine for the Treatment of Myopia (ATOM) series. While the 0.01% concentration has shown effectiveness, the Low-Concentration Atropine for Myopia Progression (LAMP) study suggests that higher concentrations may offer more profound results. Atropine is easy to implement, especially for young children, with minimal side effects. However, long-term data regarding potential ocular toxicity is still pending.


Controlling Myopia with Contact Lenses

In recent years, contact lenses have emerged as a promising avenue for myopia control:

  • Orthokeratology

    Orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses, worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, have shown promise in reducing axial elongation by 55% after 24 months. However, these lenses have limitations and may not correct higher levels of myopia.

  • MiSight Contact Lenses

    The FDA-approved daily wear MiSight lens is a breakthrough in myopia control. Its dual-focus design creates myopic defocus and has demonstrated a reduction in myopia progression and axial length. This daily disposable lens offers an alternative to ortho-k, providing clear vision during the day without lenses. The ongoing MiSight clinical trial aims to provide more insights into its long-term efficacy and safety.


Meet our Myopia Management Specialist

Patient Reviews
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439 Reviews
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- Apr. 18, 2025
Amazing place to do Vision Therapy! My 10 year old daughter was here for 9 months and her improvemen... ts were amazing. She loved her vision therapists and can also see her work has helped her in school and everyday life.
- Apr. 09, 2025
After a head injury, I was experiencing vision problems for about 10 years. My vision was blurry and... looked almost like a vhs recording or an old CRT TV. It was incredibly difficult to read, especially on screens, and I frequently became dizzy, anxious, and nauseated. I had panic attacks randomly and felt off balance and dissociated all the time. I also had severe TMJ and neck pain. I saw several doctors (including eye doctors, neurologists, ENTs and Psychiatrists) and received many different treatments including sinus surgery, TMJ botox, and several different anxiety medications. Unfortunately, none of these really had an impact, and my symptoms persisted. Other eye doctors I saw said my eyes were dry from allergies and all my routine eye exams were normal. It wasn't until I was screened for vision dysfuntion by Dr. Smith that I learned that it was not just anxiety or allergies and I had vision problems that could be treated through vision therapy. Dr. Smith and Ms. Amanda were incredibly caring and skilled, and after completing a 4 month VT program, I no longer suffer from any of my previous symptoms. My life has changed completely, and it's amazing to go through a work day without dry heaving or having a panic attack. It was also nice that all of the activities for VT were similar to games, and there were no pills or surgeries involved. I was a little sceptical of the light bed therapy, but once I started the light bed sessions I was amazed how effective it was for reducing my nausea and managing my sensory issues. I can't recommend VT highly enough!!!
- Apr. 08, 2025
Wow. This was my second visit to Suburban EyeCare and I am beyond happy that I have chosen them to b... e my eye care provider. Every member of their team with whom I interacted was professional, polite, helpful and kind, in a very sincere and genuine way. I have been to numerous eye care providers over the years and Suburban EyeCare is by far the best. Thank you to my friend Jack E for the initial referral last summer - he told me they were great, and he was 100% correct.
- Mar. 21, 2025
I'm always taken care of, even despite the terrible luck I have πŸ™πŸ»
- Mar. 08, 2025
Dr. Arnold was great, friendly staff and a wide selection of glasses.
- Mar. 06, 2025
We loved working with Ms. Amanda for vision therapy for our 10 year-old. She was great communicating... with us to ensure proper practice was done on the at home work. The practice bribes were a hit. We were always greeted with a smile and it’s a bonus that they have things to do for siblings in the waiting room.
- Mar. 04, 2025
Excellent, professional service with good follow up.
- Feb. 16, 2025
Your appointment time is honored and your time is respected. Professional and friendly staff A+ orga... nization start to finish.
- Feb. 06, 2025
Great experience! Dr. Smith was absolutely amazing and took her time to explain everything and look ... at everything. Would recommend her to everyone that I know!
- Feb. 06, 2025
Friendly and competent staff.
- Jan. 30, 2025
Dr Smith and the entire staff is helpful, caring and took the time to explain the treatment necessar... y.
- Jan. 24, 2025
They are so friendly and transparent when it comes to exams and purchasing eyewear. Dr. Arnold is so... great - I'd recommend him to anyone!
- Jan. 23, 2025
Great service and staff. Highly recommend for pediatric eye exams.
- Dec. 22, 2024
Staff was friendly, knowledgeable and caring. Dr. Arnold spent extra time helping me find the correc... t contact lense.
- Dec. 21, 2024
Dr. Arnold is a great eye dr., and he takes time and explain everything concerning your eyes.
- Dec. 12, 2024
We have been coming to you guys since 2001!!! Yep. Over 2 decades. We love you. However, very sad Dr... Jacobi is retiring. We love him But, we use Dr. Smith, and she is WONDERFUL.
- Dec. 09, 2024
Always a great experience. Dr. Jacobi is a caring and truly helpful low vision specialist and provi... des excellent service. The staff is helpful and friendly as well.
- Nov. 19, 2024
Doctor and staff are very knowledgeable, helpful, and easy to talk with. This was my first visit, a... nd I look forward to my next!
- Oct. 23, 2024
Very awesome staff!!
- Oct. 12, 2024
Attention, caring and thorough exam, answers, direction. I always feel confident that I've gotten th... e best care and advice. Takes time, not rushed through. Best experience.

View All 439 Reviews

Myopia Management in Livonia

Our optometry practice in Livonia

Photograph of Kayla Smith
Hours
  • Monday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
    3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
    3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross
  • MetLife

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Suburban Eye Care: Pioneering Myopia Management

There have been various scientific breakthroughs in myopia management. However, the choice of treatment depends on the child's age, preferences, and eye condition.

At Suburban Eye Care, we are committed to keeping up with the latest advances in myopia management research and providing you with the best possible care. Our top priority is your child's eye health. Visit us today and explore the latest advancements in myopia care for healthy eyes and clear vision.

(734) 525-8170