Ortho K Lenses Can Decrease Progression Of Myopia/Nearsightedness
What Is Orthokeratology?
Utilizing Ortho K lenses, Orthokeratology (ortho-k) is the process of wearing a customized gas permeable contact lens only at night (while sleeping). Orhto k lenses gently reshape the front surface of the eye, known as the cornea. In the morning, after the user removes the lenses, they are able to see clearly for most of the day.
With very early orthokeratology dating back to the 1960’s, this treatment has been given various names over the years:
- Ortho K lenses or OK Lenses
- Overnight contact lenses
- Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT)
- Corneal reshaping contact lenses
- Gentle Shaping System
- Corneal Moulding
- Wave Front Corneal Moulding
With advances in technology, most OK lens users today find they are able to see properly without prescription glasses or contact lenses for one to two days after sleeping with the Ortho K lenses.
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Contact Unionville Optometry or Call 905-477-4488
When Is Ortho K Prescribed?
The fitting of OK lenses is usually prescribed for the following:
- To slow the progression of myopia (nearsightedness) in children and teenagers.
- To correct refractive errors in adults and children such as myopia/nearsightedness and astigmatism.
OK lenses are an excellent option for children who are experiencing a progression of myopia/nearsightedness. Adults and children are good candidates for these types of lenses if they:
- Are physically active with sports
- Do not want to wear glasses during the day
- Are unable to wear contact lenses
- Or are not ready for more permanent Laser Eye Surgery
Do OK Lenses For Myopia Actually Work?
The result of orthokeratology will depend on your prescription, age, and treatment goals. Younger eyes mould faster, therefore children and teenagers can often achieve results in just a couple nights. Adults with higher prescriptions will typically take longer.
In many patients, orthokeratology can temporarily correct nearsightedness of up to -6.00 diopters of myopia. In order to maintain the results, you will need to continue using Ortho K lenses. When you stop wearing these lenses at night your vision will return to its original baseline.
During your initial orthokeratology evaluation, our Unionville Optometrists will discuss the potential outcome of your specific treatment plan.
What Should I Expect At My OK Lens Assessment & Am I A Candidate?
Patients will have a full eye exam with one of our doctors as well as imaging and measurement of corneal curvature to establish candidacy. Once confirmed, these diagnostic tests combined with a topographical map of the ocular surface, will generate custom Ortho K lenses specific to each patient.
Typically, patients will return for a second visit and spend time with our staff learning how to insert and remove their Ortho K lenses. This typically takes two to three 20-minute sessions and/or until patients are comfortable handling the Ortho-k lenses themselves.
Patients will be seen for follow-up appointments where refraction and imaging takes place to ensure optimal fit and vision.
Orthokeratology - Ortho-K FAQs
What is Ortho-K and how does it work?
Ortho-K uses custom-designed contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea while you sleep. In the morning, the lenses are removed, allowing many patients to see clearly throughout the day without glasses or contact lenses.
Does Ortho-K actually work?
Yes. Many patients experience improved vision within the first few nights of wear. Results vary depending on prescription, age, corneal shape, and treatment goals.
Can Ortho-K slow the progression of myopia in children?
Yes. Ortho-K is one of the most widely used myopia management options and is commonly prescribed to help slow the progression of nearsightedness in children and teenagers.
At what age can a child start Ortho-K?
Many children begin Ortho-K treatment between the ages of 6 and 12, although suitability depends on prescription, eye health, and maturity level.
Is Ortho-K safe for children?
Yes. When properly fitted and monitored by an optometrist, Ortho-K is considered a safe and effective non-surgical option for myopia management in children.
How long does it take for Ortho-K to work?
Many patients notice clearer vision after one to three nights. Full correction may take several days or weeks depending on the prescription being treated.
How long do the effects of Ortho-K last?
The effects are temporary. Most patients need to wear their lenses every night to maintain clear daytime vision. If treatment is stopped, vision gradually returns to its original prescription.
Can Ortho-K correct astigmatism?
Yes. Ortho-K can successfully treat many patients with mild to moderate astigmatism, depending on the shape of the cornea and the prescription.
Can adults wear Ortho-K lenses?
Yes. Adults who want freedom from glasses or daytime contact lenses often choose Ortho-K as a non-surgical alternative to laser vision correction.
Is Ortho-K better than LASIK?
Ortho-K and LASIK serve different purposes. LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea through surgery, while Ortho-K provides a non-surgical and reversible option for vision correction.
Who is a good candidate for Ortho-K?
Ortho-K may be suitable for children with progressing myopia, athletes, active individuals, patients who cannot wear daytime contact lenses comfortably, and people who are not ready for laser eye surgery.
What happens during an Ortho-K consultation?
Your appointment includes a comprehensive eye exam, corneal measurements, and detailed corneal mapping to determine whether Ortho-K is right for you. Custom lenses are then designed specifically for your eyes.
How much do Ortho-K lenses cost?
The cost varies depending on the complexity of the prescription, lens design, fitting requirements, and follow-up care. A consultation is the best way to receive a personalized estimate.
Are Ortho-K lenses comfortable?
Most patients adapt quickly to Ortho-K lenses. Because they are worn while sleeping, many people find them easier to tolerate than traditional rigid lenses worn during the day.
Where can I get Ortho-K lenses in Markham?
Unionville Optometry provides comprehensive Ortho-K consultations, corneal mapping, custom lens fittings, and ongoing myopia management for patients throughout Markham, Unionville, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Stouffville, Newmarket, and York Region.
Our Unionville Optometry Eye Doctors Are Also Members Of:
Schedule Your Ortho K Lens Fitting At Unionville Optometry
Unionville Optometry carries a full line of eye care products. Our Unionville Optometrists can evaluate your eye health and determine if OK soft contact lenses are right for you.
Send us an email or call our Unionville Optometry Orthokeratology clinic at 1-905-477-4488 to make an appointment with Dr. Mark, Dr. Krista, or Dr. Innamorato.
If you still have questions about Ortho K lenses, contact us online.
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