Exploring Orthokeratology as a Vision Correction Option
September 24, 2024
Nearsightedness is a common eye condition that makes it difficult to see objects that are far away. This condition can be mild, moderate, or severe and can develop gradually or quickly. There are multiple treatment vision correction methods to address nearsightedness, including contact lenses, eyeglasses, LASIK, and PRK. However, ortho-k is an alternative, non-surgical option that may be beneficial for some.
What is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology, also known as ortho-k, is the use of special contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea to improve vision. Most ortho-K lenses are worn at night to reshape the surface of the eye while you are sleeping.
Ortho-k is commonly used to correct nearsightedness (myopia). Studies have also shown that ortho-k is an effective option for reducing myopia progression in children. While this issue can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, LASIK, or PRK, ortho-k is a surgery-free solution for some people to avoid wearing glasses and reduce their contact lens wear.
Benefits of Orthokeratology
Ortho-k offers many benefits for those seeking a non-surgical solution to near-sightedness. These benefits include:
- Non-surgical and reversible.
- Freedom from glasses and daytime contact lenses.
- Ideal for active individuals and athletes.
- Safe for children and teens with progressive myopia.
How Orthokeratology Works
To best understand how ortho-k works, we must first understand the purpose of the cornea. The cornea is a clear, dome-shaped window located in the front of the eye that focuses light onto the retina. Its job is to allow the eye to focus. When someone is nearsighted, the curve of their cornea is too steep. Ortho-k lenses work to correct near-sightedness by temporarily flattening the cornea, improving focus.
During the ortho-k procedure, your ophthalmologist will map and measure the surface of your cornea using a corneal topographer device. A lens will then be created for your eye. The lenses should be worn at night to flatten the cornea as you sleep and then removed during the day. If you were to stop wearing these lenses at night, your eyes would simply return to their original shape, and your refractive error would return.
While some people may experience noticeable improvement in vision within days of treatment, final results may take two weeks or longer. You may need a series of temporary ortho-k lenses to see properly until you reach your desired prescription. Once you have reached your goal prescription, you will use the same lens shape each night to maintain the correction.
Who is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?
Ortho-k may be an option for both children and adults to improve myopia. However, it is important to note that it may be more effective in children and young people. In particular, children with progressive myopia, young adults with mild to moderate myopia, people who are not interested in LASIK, or athletes who cannot wear glasses or contact lenses during their chosen sport may be good candidates for ortho-k.
However, candidacy depends on many factors, such as eye health, medical history, and more. It is also important to note that this treatment does not treat farsightedness. The best way to determine if this treatment is right for you is to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled physicians in Falls Church.
Long-Term Effects and Success Rates
In clinical studies of FDA-approved ortho-k lenses, most patients achieved 20/40 vision or better. There is no limit to how long you can use ortho-k lenses. If your eyes continue to stay healthy and comfortable, ortho-k can be used for years.
While ortho-k is a safe procedure when overseen by a certified ophthalmologist, the biggest risk associated with this treatment is infection. This is especially concerning for children or adolescents who do not maintain proper contact lens hygiene. To reduce this risk, it is important to follow your ophthalmologist’s lead regarding how to properly care for your lenses.
Schedule a Consultation
Overall, ortho-k is a safe, non-invasive alternative to other vision correction options. If you would like to learn more, please schedule a consultation with Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology in Falls Church, VA.
