Tracking axial length is one of the most accurate ways to monitor myopia risk in children. Here’s how we use it at .
As more children are being diagnosed with myopia (nearsightedness) at younger ages, it’s become more important than ever to track how their eyes are growing, especially for families who want to prevent serious long-term complications.
At , we use axial length measurement as part of our myopia management program. This advanced test helps us understand not just where your child’s vision is today, but where it might be headed in the future.
What Is Axial Length?
Axial length is the distance from the front of the eye (the cornea) to the back of the eye (the retina). It’s measured in millimeters, and while that may seem like a small number, even a fraction of a millimeter can make a big difference in how clearly your child sees.
A healthy eye grows over time, just like the rest of the body. But when the eye grows too long too quickly, it can stretch and distort the shape of the retina. This excessive growth is the main driver of axial myopia, the most common type of nearsightedness in children.
The longer the eye becomes, the higher the risk of complications later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, or macular degeneration, even if your child wears glasses or contact lenses that correct their vision.
That’s why we measure axial length: it gives us a clear, objective, and repeatable way to monitor how fast the eye is growing and whether we need to intervene.
Why Axial Length Matters More Than Just a Prescription
Most people think of vision in terms of numbers like 20/20 or -2.00. While those measurements reflect how clearly your child sees, they don’t tell us what’s happening inside the eye. That’s where axial length measurement shines.
At , we use this tool to track how fast the eye is growing. A single reading isn’t enough to make a diagnosis, but by comparing measurements over time, we can identify patterns, such as:
- Axial length increasing too rapidly
- Hyperopia reserve declining faster than expected
- Early signs of high myopia risk
This allows us to step in early with customized myopia control strategies, such as orthokeratology, MiSight® lenses, or low-dose atropine therapy, all available at .
What’s Considered “Normal”?
Parents often ask us what a “normal” axial length is. But here’s the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all number. That’s because axial length depends not just on age, but also on other factors like corneal curvature and genetics.
For example, two children of the same age and vision prescription may have different axial lengths due to differences in the shape of their eyes. That’s why we don’t rely on general charts; we rely on tracking your child’s eye over time.
On average, a 1 mm increase in axial length can mean a shift of –2.50 to –3.00 diopters. The goal of early intervention is to slow down this growth so we can reduce the risk of future eye disease.
Axial Length Testing in
If you’re concerned about your child’s risk for myopia, offers comprehensive pediatric eye exams that include axial length testing when needed. We serve families across with modern diagnostic tools, compassionate care, and evidence-based treatments.
Early monitoring leads to better outcomes and healthier eyes for life.
Contact now to book your child’s eye exam in today.