What degree of myopia is considered high myopia?

Apr 21, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Chen You

Introduction

Myopia is classified as follows: - Mild myopia: −0.25 to −3.00 diopters (D) - Moderate myopia: −3.00 to −6.00 D - High myopia: > −6.00 D - Very high (or pathological) myopia: > −8.00 D or > −9.00 D If a patient’s myopia exceeds −10.00 D, it is considered very high myopia. The clinical manifestations and risks associated with mild, moderate, and high myopia differ significantly.

With rapid societal development, people increasingly rely on electronic devices—such as smartphones. Frequent smartphone use can easily lead to myopia (nearsightedness). If poor visual habits persist after meals, this may progress to high myopia. So, what degree of refractive error constitutes high myopia?

What Degree Defines High Myopia?

Myopia is categorized as follows: mild myopia (0–300 diopters), moderate myopia (300–600 diopters), and high myopia (>600 diopters). Myopia exceeding 900 diopters—or sometimes defined as over 800 diopters—is termed “very high myopia.” When refractive error surpasses 1,000 diopters, it is definitively classified as very high myopia.

Myopia is clinically divided into mild, moderate, and high degrees—differences that are substantial. Consequently, some individuals mistakenly assume they have myopia and wear glasses with prescriptions of 600, 500, or 400 diopters. This notion is entirely incorrect. High myopia differs fundamentally from mild myopia and carries a significantly higher risk of ocular complications.

The higher the degree of myopia, the longer the eyeball remains elongated. Prolonged axial elongation increases susceptibility to posterior segment complications—including retinal detachment—whereas mild myopia rarely causes retinal detachment. Therefore, even among those already diagnosed with myopia, it is crucial to prevent progression from mild to high myopia. In daily life, avoid prolonged use of electronic devices such as televisions, computers, and smartphones; refrain from chronic sleep deprivation; and spend more time outdoors gazing into the distance. We hope this information proves helpful.

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