eyecliniclondon
Trustpilot
book a consultation Tel: 0203 974 4454
Myopia

Myopia Treatment London

Get in Touch

Trustpilot

What is Myopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error causing distant objects to appear blurry while close objects are seen clearly. This condition results from the eyeball being too long relative to the focusing power of the cornea and lens, or the cornea being too curved for the length of the eyeball.

At Eye Clinic London, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for myopia, including diagnosis, treatment, and unparalleled after-care.

Have you or someone you know, perhaps a family member or a friend, experienced any signs of myopia? If you’ve never had to deal with it yourself, it’s hard to imagine how frustrating it can be to miss out on the simple joys of life, like seeing a beautiful view on a vacation, not being able to fully enjoy a family day at the beach or watching your kids play at the park without squinting or straining your eyes. Simple tasks like watching a movie together and playing sport can be impossible without the aid of glasses or contact lenses.

Do you know what causes this common vision problem? Let’s explore the causes and symptoms of myopia and how it affects your vision.

book a consultation

Causes and Symptoms of Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is primarily caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Genetically, myopia often occurs when the shape of the eyeball is elongated or when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) becomes too curved. These structural changes are often inherited, meaning if your parents or close relatives have myopia, you’re more likely to develop it as well. This altered shape causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, leading to blurred distance vision.

In addition to genetics, environmental factors such as spending long periods doing close-up activities like reading, using computers, or prolonged screen time, as well as limited exposure to outdoor natural light, can increase the likelihood of developing myopia or worsen its progression.

Laser Eye Surgery

Common symptoms of myopia include:

  • blurred vision when looking at distant objects,
  • frequent squinting to see clearly,
  • headaches from eye strain,
  • difficulty seeing at night, especially when driving.
Myopia Becoming More Common

Why Is Myopia Becoming More Common?

The Myopia Epidemic: Alarming Global Trends.

Today’s world is increasingly digital, with children and adults spending more time on screens and less time outdoors. Extensive close-up work, like reading or using phones and tablets, puts significant strain on the eyes, contributing to the development of myopia, especially in younger generations.

Did you know that half of the world’s population could be myopic by 2050? That’s almost 5 billion people affected by myopia. This rapid rise has turned myopia into a global public health concern. In countries like China, South Korea, and Japan, up to 90% of teenagers are now myopic. The UK, the US, and Europe are also seeing sharp increases, especially among children. In the UK, it is estimated that 1 in 3 people suffer from myopia, and these numbers are expected to rise.

At the same time, genetics plays a crucial role. If you have myopic parents, your chances of developing myopia are much higher. Combine genetic predisposition with modern lifestyle habits, and you have a perfect storm for the global rise in myopia.

This isn’t just about blurry vision—it’s about the profound impact myopia can have on life. Severe myopia increases the risk of serious eye health issues as people age, which can affect everything from everyday activities to professional opportunities.

Myopia

What you might not know is that myopia can worsen over time, particularly if it starts in childhood. Severe myopia can lead to complications later in life, such as an increased risk of retinal detachment, glaucoma, or cataracts. This makes it essential to manage myopia effectively early on, especially for younger generations who are at higher risk.

book a consultation
Myopia

What To Do When You Have Myopia?

Myopia can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery. If you are looking for more permanent solutions, procedures such as LASIK, PRK, ICL or Refractive Lens Exchange are available.

At Eye Clinic London, we are at the forefront of addressing myopia with cutting-edge technologies and treatments. Our clinic offers a comprehensive range of options tailored to individual needs, including:

High-Tech Diagnostic Tools:

We employ advanced diagnostic technologies to accurately assess and diagnose myopia. Our state-of-the-art equipment ensures precise measurements and evaluations, guiding our customized treatment plans.

Specialised Treatments:

Led by Mr. Hamada’s expertise and exceptional surgical skills our team offers advanced Laser Vision Correction treatments or specialised treatments such as Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL) for those not suitable for laser eye surgery.

Myopia Management Programs:

Recognising the myopia epidemic, especially among children, we work closely with other specialists in the field who offer programs aimed at slowing the progression of myopia, including orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses, and lifestyle advice.

Myopia at Eye Clinic London

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment Options for Myopia at Eye Clinic London

At Eye Clinic London, we provide a comprehensive range of treatments to address myopia and help you achieve clear vision without the constant need for glasses or contact lenses.

Laser Vision Correction

Laser Vision Correction:

We offer all types of laser eye surgery, including LASIK, LASEK and PRK, tailored to your specific needs and eye health. Laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors and can eliminate or reduce the need for glasses or contacts. These procedures are highly successful, with over 1 million laser surgeries performed globally each year.

Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL)

Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL):

A revolutionary treatment for patients who may not be suitable for laser vision correction due to the thickness of their corneas or other factors. ICL surgery involves placing a biocompatible lens inside the eye to correct vision without altering the cornea's natural structure. The popularity and success rates of ICL surgeries at our clinic are growing, with patients celebrating the amazing clarity of vision post-procedure.

If you have higher prescription or dry eyes, ICLs will provide you with an excellent alternative to laser eye surgery. The lenses are implanted in the eye, offering a safe and effective solution with swift recovery times.

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE):

For older patients, particularly those experiencing myopia along with age-related vision issues like presbyopia, RLE is an excellent solution. This procedure replaces the eye’s natural lens with an artificial one to correct vision and reduce the need for glasses or contacts. RLE is a great option for individuals looking for long-term vision correction, especially as they age.

book a consultation

At Eye Clinic London, we thoroughly assess each patient’s individual needs to recommend the most appropriate treatment. Our goal is to provide effective, safe, and personalised solutions for long-lasting results.

To explore your options and find the best treatment for your vision needs, book a consultation today or give us a call.

book your consultation now
Myopia

Mr. Hamada’s Expertise

At Eye Clinic London, our commitment to excellence is epitomised by Mr. Hamada’s renowned expertise. With a distinguished career marked by dedication to patient care and surgical precision, Mr. Hamada leads our clinic with a focus on delivering outstanding results in myopia treatment and management. His extensive experience and innovative approach ensure that our patients receive the best possible care, tailored to their unique needs.

Myopia in the Digital Age

In today’s world, one of the major factors contributing to the rise in myopia is increased screen time. Whether for work, education, or leisure, prolonged use of digital devices places significant strain on the eyes, leading to the progression of myopia. This is especially prevalent among younger generations who spend more time indoors, engaging in activities like studying, using computers, and playing video games—tasks that require constant near focus.

Globally, the myopia epidemic is escalating, with some regions in Asia experiencing particularly alarming rates with up to 90% of myopic teenagers. This stark rise is largely attributed to intense academic pressures. In these cultures, the educational system is highly competitive, and children spend long hours studying indoors from a young age. This pressure for academic success forces students to engage in near-work activities for extended periods, whether it’s reading, writing, or working on computers, which significantly increases the risk of developing myopia.

Eye Clinic London
myopia epidemic

In contrast, previous generations spent more time playing outdoors, engaging in physical activities, and enjoying a more balanced lifestyle, which helped protect their vision. Today’s children, however, often have limited outdoor playtime, which further exacerbates the problem. Outdoor light exposure has been shown to reduce the progression of myopia, as it promotes healthy eye development and reduces eye strain.

Diet can also play a role in the progression of myopia. With increased consumption of processed foods and diets that lack essential vitamins and nutrients, modern lifestyles may further contribute to deteriorating eye health.

progression of myopia

By understanding these contributing factors—academic pressure, lack of outdoor time, and poor diet—we can begin to address the global myopia epidemic. In regions where academic success is highly emphasised, there is a need to balance education with outdoor activities, proper diet, and reduced screen time to slow the progression of myopia.

book a consultation
A Personal Story: Claudia Winkleman’s Myopia Journey

A Personal Story: Claudia Winkleman’s Myopia Journey

Severe myopia affects people from all walks of life, including BBC presenter Claudia Winkleman, who has been open about her struggles with high myopia since childhood. Living with a prescription of -15, Claudia has shared how her condition has shaped her life, from daily challenges to artistic preferences. In a feature edited by Mr. Hamada for Hello Magazine, https://www.hellomagazine.com/ healthandbeauty/health-and-fitness/507821/claudia-winkleman-severe-health-condition-born-with/ Claudia discussed how she has adapted to life with severe myopia, offering a glimpse into the realities of living with such a high refractive error.

Preventing Myopia

Preventing Myopia: What You Can Do

While genetics play a role in myopia, lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk, especially for children and younger generations. Here are some practical ways to support healthy vision:

  • Encourage outdoor activities: Children who spend more time outdoors are less likely to develop myopia. Exposure to natural light is essential for maintaining healthy eye development. Regular outdoor play, sports, and activities that don’t involve screens can help protect their vision.
digital eye strain
  • Limit screen time and manage digital eye strain: Long hours of screen time not only contribute to myopia but can also cause Digital Eye Strain Syndrome, which brings on symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. To reduce the impact, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple habit helps relax the eye muscles and prevent strain. Parents can help by setting screen time limits, creating screen-free zones, and ensuring children take regular breaks to rest their eyes.
Focus on a healthy diet
  • Focus on a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients is important for eye health. Foods high in vitamin A (like carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach), omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish and flaxseeds), and lutein (present in leafy greens) can support long-term eye function. Including these nutrients in your child’s diet can help protect against vision issues, including myopia.
  • Regular eye check-ups: Early detection is essential for managing myopia effectively. Regular eye exams can monitor changes in vision and ensure the right corrective steps are taken, especially for children whose eyesight may change as they grow.
Clear Vision

Start Your Journey to Clear Vision Today

Myopia is a growing concern globally as well as in the UK, with significant implications for the affected individuals' quality of life. Understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and seeking timely treatment are crucial steps in managing this condition effectively.

At Eye Clinic London, our approach to myopia management combines advanced diagnostic technologies with Mr. Hamada's surgical expertise, offering our patients a path to clearer vision and an improved quality of life. Whether you're exploring treatment options for myopia or seeking to understand this condition better, Eye Clinic London is here to guide you through every step of the journey towards better eye health.

Focus on a healthy diet

Led by Mr. Hamada, one of the leading specialists in the country and internationally recognised for his expertise in complex cornea and refractive surgeries, laser eye surgery, and all the new revolutionary treatments, our clinic offers world-class care.

Mr. Hamada’s extensive experience ensures that you or your child will receive the highest level of treatment available.

book a consultation

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re ready to explore a life without glasses or contact lenses, contact Eye Clinic London to schedule your consultation. Let us help you discover how LASIK eye surgery in London can transform your vision and improve your quality of life.

book your consultation now

Finance & Insurance

We provide top eye care accessible through various payment methods and insurance policies, with guidance on financial options to prioritise your health. For personalised details, please contact us.

Our Location

Strategically located in Devonshire Street, Harley Medical District, Marylebone, in the heart of London, our clinic is easily accessible, ensuring that your journey to exceptional eye care is as convenient as possible. Our central position ensures that you can easily reach us from various parts of the city.

Devonshire street in Marylebone is not just an address; it’s a hub of convenience and accessibility. With excellent transport links and a wealth of amenities nearby, your visit to Eye Clinic London will be convenient and hassle-free experience.

Whether you are a local resident or visiting form other parts of UK or abroad, our location will provide you with seamless connection to the private eye doctor in London.

When choosing to travel by public transport please alight at Bond Street Station and walk for 7 mins, alternatively exit at Oxford Circus station or Baker Street Station and walk for 10 mins.

Street parking is available.

Eye Clinic London 7 Devonshire Street
London, W1W 5DY

Queen Victoria Hospital Corneoplastic Unit Holtye Road
East Grinstead RH19 3DZ

The McIndoe Centre Holtye Road East
Grinstead RH19 3EB