New developments in myopia management and tackling scleral lens fittings with Dr. Wallace Tucker

Currently, the only FDA-approved modality for myopia management is a contact lens, which is insufficient for the diverse needs of children. There is hope for FDA-approved glasses and atropine to expand treatment options. Ashley Wallace Tucker, OD, FAAO, FSLS, Dipl ABO, emphasizes the importance of diversifying myopia management tools, noting that not all children can wear contact lenses.

Additionally, scleral lenses, despite initial fears due to their size, are a versatile option for various eye conditions, including keratoconus and dry eye disease. Optometrists are encouraged to start with one patient and seek support from experienced labs to effectively incorporate sclerals into their practice.

Wallace Tucker provides these insights on the coattails of new research released by the Contact Lens Institute (CLI),¹ which found that practices may benefit from discussing contact lens purchasing dynamics ahead of and during examinations instead of waiting until the patient reaches the optical center. According to contact lens-related searches on Google, patients also often seek help removing their contact lenses at least twice as often as insertion, with removal outpacing insertion by 250% to 400%. Therefore, the CLI states that additional emphasis on removal techniques may be warranted during in-office I&R training and checking in about removal challenges during post-fit check-ins. Additionally, unfulfilled dual wear opportunities still remain prevalent.

Reference:

1. Purchase factors drive online contact lens searches, according to new US and Canadian research. News release. Contact Lens Institute. February 19, 2025. Accessed February 19, 2025.