Orthokeratology

WHAT IS ORTHOKERATOLOGY?

Orthokeratology, also known as ortho-k, is the use of specially designed and fitted contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea to improve vision. Think of it as braces for your eyes! These lenses are typically worn at night while you sleep. The improvements are temporary, and must be maintained with regular use of the fitted lenses as directed by your doctor. To make your special lenses, we will map and measure the surface of your cornea using our corneal topographer and design a lens that is perfect for you. They work by flattening the center of your cornea, which changes how light is bent as it enters the eye. When the lenses are removed, the cornea remains flattened and vision is corrected without any need for glasses or regularly-prescribed contact lenses. The process can take about two weeks or longer before the maximum effect can be achieved, although some report significant improvement in days.

WHO IS ORTHOKERATOLOGY FOR?

Orthokeratology is primarily used to correct nearsightedness (myopia), a problem usually corrected by prescribed glasses, contact lenses, LASIK, or PRK. However, ortho-k is a surgery-free way for some people to achieve better vision without the need for additional eyewear. Sometimes, it may be recommended for children or young adults, as their vision is still developing and the aforementioned surgeries aren’t safe until the patient’s vision is stable. If you aren’t sure if ortho-k lenses are the right option for you, please reach out to us for a consultation so we can figure out what’s best for your eyes together.