Myopia is diagnosed when a person’s spherical equivalent (also known as a “prescription” for corrective lenses) is −0.5 diopters or lower. Diagnosis usually involves an eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist, which may include assessments such as retinoscopy, auto-refractometer, corneal topography, and slit-lamp examination.[1]
How is myopia diagnosed?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Myopia is diagnosed when a person's spherical equivalent is −0.5 diopters or lower and is typically assessed during an eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The examination may include tests such as retinoscopy, autorefractometer, corneal topography, and slit-lamp examination.