A Proactive Approach to Near‑Sightedness
The prevalence of myopia (near‑sightedness) is rising worldwide, and with it, the importance of early intervention and long‑term wellness care. At Smart Vision Optometry (SVO), the focus is not just on correcting myopia but controlling its progression and safeguarding future eye‑health.
“Our objective is to help patients preserve clarity today and minimise risk tomorrow,” explains Gary Rodney, founder and creator of Smart Vision Optometry, Master of Optometry, Behavioural Optometrist and Fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (FIAOMC).
Jacquie Gattegno, Orthokeratologist and Principal Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Smart Vision Optometry Bondi affirms: “By tailoring myopia‑control strategies to each individual, we give children and families a robust plan — not just standard glasses.”
Background and Evidence
Global studies show that high myopia increases the lifetime risk of eye conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, myopic maculopathy and cataract. Thus, slowing myopia progression has significant long‑term benefit.
Gary states: “The earlier we intervene, the more we can influence the trajectory of myopia and reduce risk. The key is individualised care: no two children have the same visual demands or risk profile.” Jacquie emphasises lifestyle factors: “Screen time, outdoor exposure, focusing behaviour and ergonomic habits all play into the plan, so we tailor each case.”
The Individualised Myopia‑Control Programme
Risk Assessment & Vision‑Profile
The process begins with a detailed examination. Gary says: “We identify the child’s level of myopia, rate of change, binocular vision status, focusing ability and lifestyle factors (screen use, reading habits, outdoor time).”
Jacquie adds: “We also discuss parental history, growth patterns and visual environment to build a full risk profile.”
Customised Intervention Strategy
From the assessment, a tailored plan is made. Gary says: “Interventions may include highly customised and individually designed nightly orthokeratology (Ortho‑K) lenses, multifocal soft contact lenses, spectacle designs tuned for myopia‑control, low‑dose atropine (where indicated), plus behavioural/lifestyle modification.”
Jacquie: “We connect these interventions to the child’s real‑life: playing sport, doing homework, using devices. Each measure is selected and supported so the child lives normally, not in a restricted way.”
Lifestyle & Visual‑Habits Coaching
Myopia progression is influenced by behaviour. Gary says: “We educate and coach families: increase outdoor time, ensure breaks from near work, optimise lighting and posture, monitor screen use.”
Jacquie emphasises parent/child involvement: “It’s not just treatment — we build habits. For example, the child schedules outdoor play, takes near‑breaks every 20–30 minutes and uses prescribed lenses consistently.”
Regular Monitoring & Adjustment
Monitoring is integral. Gary says: “Progress must be tracked: axial length measurements reviewed, refractive change, binocular vision function. If we see acceleration of change, we adjust the plan.”
Jacquie: “We keep parents informed and engaged — the plan evolves with the child’s growth, lifestyle and visual environment.”
Benefits & Real‑World Impact
Slowed Progression, Reduced Long‑Term Risk
By intervening early and personally, SVO aims to slow myopia progression. Gary says: “Even a one‑dioptre reduction in lifetime myopia can significantly lower risk of sight‑threatening complications.”
Jacquie: “Families often report peace of mind — their child is on a plan, not just a waiting game.”
Normal Life, Better Vision Clarity
Many young patients wear orthokeratology lenses overnight and are glasses‑free by day — ideal for sport, active lifestyles and confidence. Jacquie explains: “The child is free of distractions, and vision is clear for school and play.”
Gary says: “We’re not compromising lifestyle — we’re optimising it.”
Empowered Families
Children and parents become active participants in the plan. Jacquie says: “When families understand why we’re doing what we’re doing, compliance is higher and outcomes are better.”
Gary agrees: “We deliver data, explanation and follow‑through — so families feel supported and informed every step of the way.”
Taking Action
- If your child’s prescription is increasing each year, or you have a family history of high myopia, book an assessment.
- Ask for a full vision‑profile and myopia‑risk evaluation (not just glasses‑prescription).
- Discuss the customised plan: the lenses, the lifestyle coaching, the monitoring.
- Commit to regular reviews and monitoring — the plan isn’t “set and forget”.
- Support the behavioural side: outdoor time, screen‑breaks, good posture and consistent lens wear.
Why Choose a Personalised Myopia‑Control Approach?
Gary says: “We recognise that myopia isn’t just a number on a script — it’s a dynamic condition influenced by biology, behaviour and environment. Tailoring the plan gives us greater control and better outcomes.”
Jacquie reiterates: “For families, knowing you’re on a customised path, not a generic solution, brings confidence and clarity.”
With SVO your child’s vision‑health isn’t just managed — it’s optimised for life.
How To Get Started
If you’re concerned about myopia’s progression, or want to understand how individualised strategies can support your child’s vision and future eye‑health, now is the time to act.
Discover SVO’s Myopia Control programmes here: Myopia Control – Smart Vision Optometry.Take control of your child’s vision wellness today. Book an appointment, or call the Bondi clinic on (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic on (02) 9969 1600.
