Orthokeratology: Your Questions Answered

Posted on: 28 November 2022

Orthokeratology, also known as corneal refractive therapy, is a non-invasive way to reduce your dependence on glasses or contact lenses temporarily. It involves wearing custom-fitted, gas-permeable contact lenses overnight.

Ortho-K is a great alternative for people who are not suitable candidates for eye surgery or other vision correction procedures. It is also a popular choice for athletes, young adults, and people working in demanding occupations requiring clear and sharp vision.

How Does Orthokeratology Work?

Orthokeratology works as the contact lens gently reshapes your eye's front surface (cornea). This temporary change in shape allows light to focus more accurately on the back of your eye (retina), resulting in clearer vision.

The process begins with an eye exam to determine if you are a good candidate for Ortho-K. If you are, we will take detailed measurements of your eyes and create custom-fitted, gas-permeable contact lenses.

You will need to wear the lenses overnight for a few weeks. During this time, your eyes will gradually begin to change shape. Once your eyes have reached the desired level of correction, you can reduce the frequency of lens wear to a few times a week to maintain clear vision during the day.

It is important to note that orthokeratology is not a cure for nearsightedness or farsightedness. Instead, it is a way to temporarily improve your vision so that you can enjoy clear vision without the need to use glasses or contact lenses.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Most people tolerate Ortho-K very well and experience no side effects. Some people may experience minor discomfort when they first start wearing the lenses, but this usually goes away within a few days as your eyes adjust to the lenses.

A small percentage of people may experience blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, or mild irritation when they first start wearing Ortho-K lenses, but these side effects are usually temporary and go away within a few days. If you experience any side effects, please contact your eye care professional for advice and assessment.

Summary

Orthokeratology is safe and effective for people of all ages, and the results are usually long-lasting, without the need for eye surgery or invasive procedures. If you are searching for an alternative to glasses or contact lenses, Ortho-K may be right for you. Schedule a consultation with an optometrist today to see if you are a good candidate for this exciting and innovative treatment.

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