Orthokeratology (ortho-k) is a form of reversible, refractive correction involving the overnight use of gas-permeable contact lenses that reshape the front surface of your eye. As an ortho-k wearer, you wear lenses while you sleep and remove them when you wake up. You can see clearly for the day – without wearing glasses or contact lenses.
Ortho-K FAQs
Ortho-k lenses are corneal reshaping contact lenses worn while you are sleeping. The contact lenses slightly and temporarily reshape the front surface of your corneas to improve your vision. You should be able to see well, without glasses or contact lenses, as long as you wear ortho-k lenses every night. This is a temporary and reversible form of vision correction.
How long does ortho-k last?
If you wear ortho-k lenses every night, you should see clearly for the entire day without needing to wear other corrective eyewear. However, if you are not regularly wearing ortho-k lenses the results of ortho-k last a day or two before individuals need to wear corrective eyewear. Keep in mind results are different for every person, and this may vary based on your specific circumstances.
Who is a good candidate?
Ortho-k lenses are typically prescribed for those with mild to moderate myopia. It is primarily for slowing the progression of childhood myopia. However, individuals with refractive errors such as nearsightedness, astigmatism, and hyperopia can also be good candidates. Ortho-k can also be an option for those who are not good candidates for refractive surgery.
Process Overview
- The initial examination your eye care professional will use a topograph to determine the curvatures of your corneas.
- During the fitting, your eye care professional will select a series of up to three strengths of custom Ortho-k prescription contacts.
- The lenses are temporary and used in phases to help you reach the desired prescription. It typically takes three pairs of lenses before maximum vision correction has occurred.
- You wear the lenses every night while you sleep and remove when you wake up, for clear vision throughout the day.
If you have questions or concerns about Ortho-k, our team is happy to assist you. Schedule a consultation to help determine your candidacy, costs, benefits, and risks of the process.
