Hoya Vision Care has launched new additions to its MiYOSMART sun range, photochromic spectacle lenses— the MiYOSMART Chameleon and the MiYOSMART Sunbird—designed to slow myopia progression in pediatric patients.
Let’s talk about the MiYOSMART brand first.
The MiYOSMART spectacle lenses are based on Hoya’s patented defocus incorporated multiple segments (D.I.M.S.) non-invasive technology, which enables the lens to correct visual defects on the whole surface (providing clear vision) while potentially slowing myopia progression (via a ring-shaped treatment area).
Further, the lenses provide 100% ultraviolet (UV)-A and UV-B protection, minimizing the potential for long-term eye damage.
And the design?
The lenses feature an anti-reflective, durable coating that provides impact resistance, thin and light material weight, and UV protection.
According to the company, the lenses can be fitted to a child just like conventional single-vision lenses.
Any clinical data on them?
Yes! A 2020 study assessed the use of D.I.MS. spectacle lens versus single-vision (SV) lenses for slowing pediatric myopia growth.
Daily D.I.M.S. lens wear was found to significantly reduce myopia progression (average = -0.41±0.06 D in the DIMS group and -0.85±0.08 D in the SV group) as well as axial elongation (mean = 0.21±0.02 mm and 0.55±0.02 mm in the DIMS and SV groups, respectively).
In other words …
Myopia progressed 52% more slowly in the D.I.M.S. group versus the SV group; additionally, the D.I.M.S. group has less axial elongation by 62% versus the SV group.
See here for additional research.
Now talk about these new lenses.
Both the MiYOSMART Chameleon and Sunbird lenses offer significant sunlight protection, myopia refractive error management, and decreased symptoms of photophobia—all while incorporating the same D.I.M.S. Technology used in the original MiYOSMART lens.
What’s the difference between the two?
The Chameleon is a photochromic lens (featuring molded laminate photochromic film technology) that rapidly adapts to sunlight levels, reduces glare, fading back to clear once indoors—in just 30 seconds.
The Sunbird, on the other hand, is a polarized spectacle lens that offers extra protection as an addition to the MiYOSMART clear lenses with category-3 tinting, improved contrast sensitivity, vibrant colors, and decreased photophobia symptoms.
Are they FDA approved?
Nope, none of the MiYOSMART spectacle lenses have been approved by the FDA—or any other countries—for myopia management.
Of note, Health Canada did approve the sale of these MiYOSMART clear spectacle lenses starting in 2020.
Where can I find them?
According to Hoya Vision, the latest MiYOSMART lenses were soft-launched in April 2023; the company plans to make the products available in 30 countries over the coming months.
Stay tuned for updates on availability!