FDA

First eyeglass lenses approved to slow myopia progression in children

October 3, 2025

FDA authorized marketing of Essilor Stellest eyeglass lenses, the first approved glasses designed to slow the progression of myopia in children aged 6 to 12. Unlike standard corrective lenses, Stellest uses a constellation of peripheral lenslets to create myopic defocus, which may help slow axial elongation of the eye.

In a two-year clinical study, children wearing Stellest lenses showed a 71% reduction in myopia progression and a 53% reduction in axial length growth compared with those wearing single-vision lenses. No serious adverse events were reported, though some participants experienced mild visual disturbances such as blur and halos.

This approval expands treatment options beyond contact lenses, offering a non-invasive, easy-to-use alternative for younger children or those unable to tolerate contacts. With pediatric myopia rates rising globally, early intervention with Stellest lenses may help reduce long-term risks of vision-threatening complications such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

Source:

(2025, September 25). FDA. FDA Authorizes Marketing of First Eyeglass Lenses to Slow Progression of Pediatric Myopia [Press Release]. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-marketing-first-eyeglass-lenses-slow-progression-pediatric-myopia