Orthokeratology

What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, often shortened to “Ortho-K,” is a revolutionary, non-surgical treatment that gently reshapes the front surface of your eye (the cornea) while you sleep. It involves wearing specially designed, highly breathable contact lenses overnight. When you wake up, you remove the lenses and can enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.

It’s a fantastic alternative for individuals who want freedom from traditional vision correction during their waking hours, especially for sports, active lifestyles, or certain occupations.

How Does it Work?

Imagine your cornea as a flexible, clear dome at the front of your eye. In people with myopia (nearsightedness), this dome is slightly too steep, causing light to focus in front of the retina, resulting in blurry distance vision.

Ortho-K lenses work by applying a gentle, precise pressure to the cornea during sleep. The unique design of the lens creates a “reverse geometry” effect:

• The inner curves of the lens gently flatten the central part of your cornea.
• Simultaneously, the outer curves of the lens create a gentle suction at the periphery, subtly pulling the corneal tissue.

This controlled reshaping temporarily flattens the cornea, changing how light enters your eye so it focuses perfectly on your retina. The effect lasts throughout the day, allowing for clear, uncorrected vision. The reshaping is temporary, so you need to wear the lenses consistently each night to maintain the effect.

Is it Safe?

When properly fitted by a qualified optometrist and with diligent patient adherence to cleaning and wearing instructions, Orthokeratology is considered a very safe procedure.

Like all contact lens wear, there is a small risk of complications, primarily related to eye infections. However, this risk is significantly minimized by:

• Proper Lens Care: Following strict cleaning and disinfection protocols is crucial.
• Regular Check-ups: Consistent follow-up appointments with your optometrist are essential to monitor your eye health and lens fit.
• High-Quality Materials: Ortho-K lenses are made from highly oxygen-permeable materials, allowing your eyes to breathe overnight.

Your optometrist will thoroughly discuss all potential risks and benefits with you during your consultation.

Am I Suitable for Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology is an excellent option for many people, but suitability depends on several factors. It’s most commonly used for:

• Myopia (Nearsightedness): It’s particularly effective for mild to moderate levels of myopia.
• Astigmatism: Can correct certain degrees of astigmatism in conjunction with myopia.
• Active Lifestyles: Ideal for athletes, swimmers, or those with professions where glasses or contact lenses can be inconvenient (e.g., police, firefighters).
• Dry Eye Sufferers: Since lenses are worn only at night, it can be a good option for those who experience discomfort with daytime contact lens wear due to dry eyes.
• Children and Teenagers: Ortho-K has also shown promise in slowing down the progression of myopia in children, known as myopia management.

A comprehensive eye examination is necessary to determine if Orthokeratology is the right solution for your eyes and your specific visual needs. We’ll assess your prescription, corneal shape, tear film, and overall eye health to ensure the best possible outcome.

Ready to explore a life free from glasses and daytime contacts? Contact us at our Dalby practice today for a consultation!