If you’ve never heard of orthokeratology before, you might be wondering what it is. If you currently wear glasses or contact lenses, orthokeratology could be just the thing to help reduce your dependence on wearing you glasses. Wouldn’t that be great?
Orthokeratology is a non-surgical procedure to fit specially designed ortho-k lenses to help correct your vision. Here we’ll take a look at what ortho-k lenses are, who they are suitable for and what difference they can make to your vision.
What are ortho-k lenses?
Ortho-k lenses are a non-surgical method of correcting your vision temporarily. They are known as rigid gas-permeable contact lenses, which are worn at night to help reshape the cornea, achieving better vision. Ortho-k lenses are worn overnight, and removed in the morning.
Ortho-k lenses essentially help to change how light rays are bent when they pass through the cornea, which can help to correct refractive errors such as short-sightedness or astigmatism. They can flatten the cornea but only temporarily, and must be worn each night to maintain best results.
Who are ortho-k lenses suitable for?
Ortho-k lenses can be a very helpful solution for those who suffer from refractive errors, although they are predominantly used to help correct short-sightedness or myopia. In some cases they can also be used for long-sightedness and astigmatism too.
Orthokeratology is suitable for those who find it difficult to wear contact lenses, whether that’s because you work in dusty environments, or you suffer from allergies or dry eyes that makes contact lenses uncomfortable. Similarly, ortho-k lenses can be helpful for those who want to take part in sport, without wearing glasses or contacts.
What are the benefits of orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology can promote improved vision, reducing your need to wear glasses or contact lenses during the day. The design of the ortho-k lenses means that oxygen can still pass through the lens, which can help to keep your eyes comfortable and healthy.
As you wear the lenses at night, dryness is reduced as there is a little tear evaporation, which diminishes any discomfort.
Ortho-k lenses are suitable for both adults and children. Ortho-k lenses for children can be quite common, and there is some suggestion that orthokeratology can slow the progression of myopia in kids. Orthokeratology in children can have shorter treatment time, as the cornea is more easily moulded than in adults.
To find out more about the orthokeratology process and what to expect, get in touch today.