Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Contact Lenses: A Non-Surgical Solution for Clear Vision

Orthokeratology, more appropriately known as Ortho-K, is a revolutionary, non-surgical vision correction technique that involves using specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses to modify the shape of the cornea during sleep. By making small changes to the shape of the eye while sleeping, Ortho-K lenses provide daytime vision without glasses or daytime contact lenses. Eye care professionals primarily use Ortho-K lenses to treat myopia (nearsightedness), but in some cases, they can also treat astigmatism, hyperopia (farsightedness), and even presbyopia. Those who are not ideal candidates for laser surgery or who do not want glasses and contacts particularly desire this new and innovative way of correcting vision. How Do Ortho-K Lenses Function? Ortho-K lenses are prescribed individually based on detailed corneal measurements made using advanced corneal topography mapping. Rigid gas-permeable lenses specially designed for reshaping are worn during sleep at night. During sleep, the lenses remodel the cornea slowly, refracting the errors so the light can focus properly on the retina. When the lenses are removed in the morning, the cornea will retain its new shape for some time and allow individuals to see clearly throughout the day. The effect lasts for 24 to 48 hours, and therefore it is crucial to wear the lenses nightly for optimal vision. Who Are Candidates for Ortho-K Lenses? Ortho-K lenses are suitable for the wide range of individuals, such as: Kids and Adolescents with Myopia: Ortho-K has been shown to reduce the progression of myopia in children, postponing the risk of high myopia and future eye disease in adulthood. Adults Who Require Independence from Glasses and Daytime Contact Lenses: Individuals with active lifestyles, such as sports players and those working in dry or dusty conditions, value the convenience of Ortho-K over traditional vision correction. Individuals Not Eligible for LASIK: Ortho-K is a great option for individuals who are not eligible for refractive surgery due to thin corneas, dry eyes, or other causes. Mild to Moderate Myopia and Astigmatism: Ortho-K is able to precisely correct refractive error up to -6.00 diopters for myopia and up to -1.75 diopters for astigmatism. Advantages of Orthokeratology Contact Lenses There are a few advantages of ortho-K lenses compared to normal glasses or contacts: Non-Surgical and Reversible: Ortho-K is fully reversible, unlike LASIK or other surgery. If you ever decide you no longer wish to wear the lenses, your cornea will revert to its original shape within a few days. Daytime Freedom with Glasses and Contact Lenses: Since Ortho-K corrects your vision while you sleep, you can now do your daily activities without contact lenses or glasses. Myopia Control in Children: Ortho-K has been found to slow the progression of myopia in children and therefore the risk of end-stage eye disease like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Comfort and Convenience: Ortho-K eliminates the discomfort of having to wear contact lenses throughout the day, especially for patients with eye irritation or dry eyes from continuous computer use all day. Safe and FDA-Approved: Ortho-K lenses are FDA-approved for overnight wear and have been safely worn for decades by trained eye care practitioners. The Ortho-K Fitting Process The procedure of obtaining Ortho-K lenses is a step-by-step one to guarantee fit and efficacy: Comprehensive Eye Exam: There is a full eye exam given to check if you’re a suitable patient for Ortho-K. Corneal Topography Mapping: High-tech imaging is used to produce a detailed map of your cornea to enable custom lens design to your eye. Lens Trial and Fitting: A trial pair of Ortho-K lenses is provided to test for comfort and effectiveness. Adjustments can be done to obtain an optimal fit. Follow-Up Visits: Follow-up visits are needed to monitor corneal changes and ensure success with the lenses. Long-Term Monitoring: Like with any method of vision correction, long-term monitoring is necessary to keep the eyes and lenses healthy. Are There Any Side Effects or Risks? Although Ortho-K is safe, there are several possible risks to it, which are: Initial Discomfort: As lenses are rigid gas-permeable, some will feel a moderate discomfort on the first few nights of wear. Temporary Changes in Vision: It will be a couple of days before you have stable, unobstructed vision as your cornea will adjust to the reshaping. Risk of Eye Infection: Like any contact lens, poor hygiene and lens care can make eye infection more likely. Care and cleaning according to instructions is critical. Caring for Your Ortho-K Lenses Proper lens care is key in maintaining healthy eyes and long-lasting Ortho-K lenses. The most critical care reminders are listed below: Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses. Wash and disinfect your lenses every day with the solutions recommended. Store lenses in a sterile, clean case with a new solution. Don’t wet lenses in saliva or tap water as it might introduce harmful bacteria. Follow the replacement schedule recommended by your eye care professional. Is Ortho-K Suitable for You? Ortho-K may be an excellent choice if you are looking for a safe, effective, and non-surgical way of reshaping your vision without glasses or daytime contact lenses. A consultation with an experienced optometrist will decide if you are a good candidate for Ortho-K based on your prescription, eye health, and lifestyle. Schedule Your Ortho-K Consultation Now At DR Rahul Raghav, we have the expertise to fit and manage Ortho-K lenses for patients across all age groups. Our highly trained optometrists utilize cutting-edge technology to create a solution for enhancing your vision according to your requirement. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to clear, hassle-free sight!