The team at Myopicare is committed to providing state-of-the-art, effective, and affordable eye care to all our patients.
One of the many vision treatments we offer is known as orthokeratology, otherwise known as Ortho-K.
What is Ortho-K?
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment option for people suffering from impaired vision. It's most commonly used to treat nearsightedness (myopia) or astigmatism, and less commonly used to treat farsightedness (presbyopia). Ortho-K has also been used to slow the progression of childhood myopia, and is a great option for people who do not want or are not good candidates for Lasik eye surgery.
Ortho-K involves the use of specialized contact lenses, designed and prescribed by your optometrist. These lenses are made to be worn as you sleep. Overnight, these Ortho-K lenses gently reshape the surface of your corneas, in such a way as to improve your day-time vision. This corneal reshaping, while temporary, can allow you to go throughout your day without the need for corrective eyewear. Best results are seen when Ortho-K lenses are used regularly.
Are Ortho K Lenses safe?
Yes. From children to teenagers to adults, people who use Ortho-K lenses tend to find the treatment safe. Risks of complications are quite low, especially because the corneal reshaping effects are temporary, and the lenses can be discontinued at any time. While not everyone is a candidate for Ortho-K therapy, most people who use this type of treatment find the lenses to be very effective and comfortable. Also, our Ortho-K eye doctors have extensive training and 25 years experience in addition to being members of the Orthokeratology Academy of America.
Are there any risks/side effects to using Ortho-K Lenses?
As with all contact lenses, there is a small risk of side effects associated with the use of Ortho-K lenses. The most common side effects include corneal edema (or swelling) and corneal strain or stress. These side effects can occur for wearers of any type of rigid contact lenses, including Ortho-K.
Other potential side effects may include discomfort or irritation from the lenses themselves, eye redness or dryness, or abnormal/increased tear production. Of course, proper contact lens hygiene and maintenance greatly minimize the risk of such side effects.