Are Contact Lenses Safe For My Child?

With children being fit with contact lenses at younger ages than ever before, some parents worry about whether lenses are safe for their child. The good news is that research supports contact lens wear in children — with proper supervision and care.

What the Research Shows

Researchers tested 294 children aged 7–11 with myopia over a 3-year period, each wearing a different type of daily-wear contact lens with follow-up exams every 6 months. Most issues that arose — such as itchy eyes or minor infections — occurred in the first year as children adjusted, and sharply declined afterward. Most problems did not require medical treatment and did not cause any long-term vision changes.

Are They as Safe as Adult Wear?

The study concluded that contact lens wear is just as safe for children as for adults, provided there is proper supervision. Contact lenses can also be a great option for myopia management, with specialty lenses specifically designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children.

Is My Child Ready?

Readiness depends on motivation, maturity, and hygiene habits. Your eye doctor will assess your child’s readiness at a contact lens consultation. Parents should plan to be involved in the early stages to ensure lenses are being used and cared for properly.

To learn more about contact lenses for your child, visit our Miamisburg eye care team at Miamisburg Vision Care today!