10/11/2025
For many people, nearsightedness (myopia) simply means needing glasses to see distant objects clearly. But when that prescription becomes very strong, usually higher than -6.00 diopters it's known as high myopia, a condition that goes beyond blurry vision.
At Barraquer, our specialists often remind patients that high myopia isn't just a stronger form of nearsightedness, it's a structural change in the eye that requires careful, lifelong management.
Understanding High Myopia
In a normal eye, light focuses directly on the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. In myopia, the eyeball is slightly longer than normal, causing light to focus in front of the retina and making distant objects appear blurry.
With high myopia, the eyeball continues to elongate, stretching the retina and other delicate tissues. Over time, this can increase the risk of several serious eye diseases even in young adults.
Why High Myopia Needs Attention
High myopia is becoming increasingly common worldwide, especially among students and professionals who spend long hours on near tasks or digital screens. In the UAE, early screening is more important than ever due to increased screen exposure and limited outdoor time.
If not monitored, high myopia can lead to complications such as:
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Retinal detachment: The elongated shape stretches and thins the retina, increasing the risk of tears or detachment.
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Myopic macular degeneration (MMD): Degenerative changes in the central retina can cause permanent vision loss.
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Glaucoma: High myopia doubles the risk of optic nerve damage and pressure-related changes.
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Cataracts: Myopic patients tend to develop cataracts earlier in life.
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Vitreous changes: Floaters or flashes may appear as the gel inside the eye (vitreous) becomes unstable with elongation.
How Barraquer Diagnoses and Monitors High Myopia
At Barraquer, high myopia management begins with comprehensive diagnostic testing because small structural changes can have major effects on vision.
Our ophthalmologists use:
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Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): To capture cross-sectional images of the retina and macula, detecting early thinning or degeneration.
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Axial Length Measurement: To track eyeball growth and detect elongation over time.
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Fundus Photography: To document and monitor retinal health.
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Corneal Topography: To evaluate corneal curvature and rule out keratoconus in progressive myopia.
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Visual Field Testing: To assess optic nerve function and detect early glaucoma.
Regular monitoring allows Barraquer’s team to intervene early often before symptoms appear.
Managing High Myopia: What You Can Do
While high myopia can’t be reversed, its progression and complications can be effectively managed with a combination of clinical care and lifestyle adjustments.
1. Regular Eye Exams
Patients with high myopia should have comprehensive eye exams at least once a year. Early detection of retinal changes or pressure buildup can prevent permanent vision loss.
2. Myopia Control in Children
If detected in childhood, interventions like low-dose atropine drops, orthokeratology lenses, or specialized myopia-control contact lenses can slow eye elongation — significantly reducing long-term risk.
3. Protective Habits
Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce myopia progression. Encourage 2 hours of outdoor activity daily and limit continuous screen use.
4. Visual Hygiene
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Proper lighting, posture, and reading distance also reduce eye strain.
5. Advanced Surgical Options
For patients unsuitable for LASIK due to thin corneas or high prescriptions, ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) implantation at Barraquer provides a safe, reversible option to correct vision while preserving corneal structure.
How Barraquer Helps Protect High Myopia Patients
Barraquer combines clinical expertise with cutting-edge imaging and surgical precision.
Every patient’s care plan is individualized, focusing on:
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Early detection: through detailed retinal imaging and visual field testing.
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Prevention: using evidence-based interventions and lifestyle guidance.
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Surgical excellence: offering advanced options like phakic IOLs or cataract surgery with customized lenses.
With decades of ophthalmic leadership and the latest diagnostic equipment, Barraquer ensures patients receive the highest standard of myopia care in the UAE.
Conclusion
High myopia isn't just a stronger prescription, it's a condition that needs proactive management and expert supervision. With regular eye exams, advanced diagnostics, and personalized care at Barraquer, patients can maintain sharp, healthy vision and minimize long-term risks.
If you've been told your prescription is “very high,” or if your vision seems to worsen each year, it's time for a comprehensive evaluation. At Barraquer, clearer vision and peace of mind are always in sight.
Schedule a consultation today
For consultation, please contact us:
- Email: appointments@barraquer.ae
- Phone (Outside the UAE): +971 4 573 9999
- Toll-Free (Within the UAE): 800 234823 (BEHUAE)
- Availability: 7 days a week, from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Extended hours on Monday until 8:00 PM
Our team will be pleased to assist you.