Wake Up to Clear Vision with Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses

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What is Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)?

Orthokeratology (or ortho-k) is a non-surgical vision correction method that reshapes the cornea using specially designed lenses worn overnight. By gently adjusting the eye's shape, Ortho-K contact lenses provide clear daytime vision without needing glasses or daytime contacts. This treatment is often recommended for myopia control, offering a convenient alternative to LASIK or wearing contact lenses full-time.

Benefits of Wearing Ortho-K Contact Lenses

Ortho-K contact lenses provide many benefits, such as:

Non-Invasive Treatment

Ortho-K offers a non-surgical way to correct vision by gently reshaping the cornea overnight.

Daytime Freedom

Users can have clear vision throughout the day without needing glasses or daytime contact lenses.

Myopia Management

Ortho-K slows myopia progression in kids and teens, reducing future severe eye issues later.

Fixes Multiple Vision Issues

Ortho-K corrects myopia and helps with hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia.

Fast Correction

Results are quick—most users see improvement overnight, with full correction in a few weeks.

Comfortable and Safe

Custom-designed Ortho-K lenses ensure comfort and safety for all ages, with no long-term risks.

Improved Peripheral Vision

Ortho-K lenses suit active lifestyles, eliminating the hassle of wearing contacts or glasses.

Cost-Effective

Ortho-K lenses are durable, reusable, and more affordable than traditional eye surgery.

Get your eyes checked by professionals. Call (281) 440-5887 or schedule an appointment.

How Do Ortho-K Lenses Work?

Ortho-K improves vision by gently reshaping the cornea overnight using specially designed gas-permeable lenses, similar to how a retainer maintains teeth alignment after braces. This non-surgical orthokeratology treatment temporarily corrects refractive errors, allowing clear vision throughout the day without needing glasses.

By applying controlled pressure, Ortho-K contact lenses help light focus correctly on the retina, effectively addressing myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Since you wear contact lenses only while sleeping, you can enjoy sharp, unobstructed vision during waking hours.

Who is a Candidate for Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology is an excellent option for children and adults with myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, as well as those over 40 experiencing presbyopia5. These special contact lenses are especially beneficial for individuals with active lifestyles, including athletes and those who want clear vision without relying on glasses.

Since Ortho-K contact lenses are non-surgical and reversible, they offer a safer alternative for those hesitant about surgery or looking to "test drive" vision correction before committing to a permanent procedure.

Want to find out if Ortho-K is right for your children?

How are Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses Different?

Ortho-K contact lenses offer a unique approach to myopia management. Here's how they differ from other myopia control methods.

Ortho-K Contact Lenses vs. Regular Contact Lenses

Ortho-K contact lenses reshape the cornea overnight, allowing clear vision throughout the day without needing glasses or wearing contact lenses. It makes them ideal for athletes or individuals with active lifestyles who want freedom from daytime eyewear. In contrast, regular contact lenses provide consistent vision correction but must be worn throughout the day, which may be less convenient for some users.

Ortho-K Contact Lenses vs. Traditional Glasses

While traditional glasses correct vision, they do not slow myopia progression like Ortho-K contact lenses. Orthokeratology reshapes the cornea overnight, offering clear vision without wearing contact lenses during the day. It makes Ortho-K a great choice for active individuals needing full peripheral vision without the hassle of glasses.

Ortho-K Contact Lenses vs. Atropine Drops

While Ortho-K contact lenses reshape the cornea overnight for clear vision without daytime eyewear, atropine drops slow myopia progression by relaxing the eye's focusing mechanism. Orthokeratology may more effectively control axial length elongation, but atropine offers a simpler approach and works well with other treatments. Combining both treatments provides the best results for some, depending on individual needs and lifestyle.

Ortho-K Contact Lenses vs. MiSight Lenses

MiSight lenses offer a one-size-fits-all design, while Ortho-K contact lenses are custom-made for a precise fit and better myopia control. Though MiSight provides immediate comfort, orthokeratology is more effective for higher prescriptions6. The choice depends on myopia severity, adaptation comfort, and treatment goals.

Ready to manage your Myopia effectively? Call (281) 440-5887 or schedule an appointment.

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Drawbacks to Orthokeratology

While orthokeratology is safe and effective, like any medical treatment, it has some drawbacks. Some of these include:

Mild Discomfort

Initial discomfort and temporary visual disturbances are common7, though these often decrease as the eyes adjust to the lenses.

Associated Cost

Ortho-K lenses can be more expensive than glasses, but they are typically less costly than other eye surgeries in the long run.

Eye Irritation and Dryness

Proper and regular management is essential for Ortho-K to prevent issues like dry eye, irritation, and infection.

Eligibility of Wearer

A healthy cornea is essential for Ortho-K, so a detailed eye exam is needed to check if you're eligible.

Take control of your Myopia Management at TSO Champions.

FAQs

Is Ortho-K Safe?

The FDA has approved orthokeratology as a safe, non-surgical treatment. With proper hygiene and regular checkups, the risk of complications is minimal. Additionally, if you stop the treatment, Ortho-K contact lenses fully reverse their effects.

Is Ortho-K Right for Me?

If you want clear vision without surgery or daily contact lens wear, ortho-k may be a great option. It's ideal for both adults with active lifestyles and children needing myopia control.

A consultation can help determine if it fits your needs correctly.

Should Kids Do Ortho-K?

Yes! Ortho-K contact lenses can slow myopia progression in children, reducing the risk of worsening vision. Many young patients have successfully maintained better eyesight by starting early.

Treatment can be stopped anytime, with the eyes returning to their natural shape.

How Does Corneal Molding Work?

Orthokeratology gently reshapes the cornea overnight using specially designed lenses. It allows for clear vision without glasses or contact lenses during the day. The process is safe, non-invasive, and fully reversible.

How Long Does Ortho-K Need to Be Worn for Myopia Control?

Ortho-k should be worn consistently throughout childhood for effective myopia control. If stopped too early, myopia may progress faster. Regular monitoring by an eye doctor ensures the best long-term results.

Will Myopia Still Progress With Ortho-K?

Yes, but at a slower rate. Studies show ortho-k can reduce myopia progression by about 50%11. Regular checkups help track changes, as progression varies based on age, genetics, and other factors.

How Long Does It Take to Get Results With Ortho-K?

Many patients notice clearer vision within a few days of starting ortho-k. Full correction typically takes two weeks, depending on the prescription and eye response.

How Long Will My Clear Vision Last?

For most patients, clear vision lasts throughout the day. If adjustments are needed, your eye doctor can refine the lens design for optimal results.

How Long Has Ortho-K Been Used for Eyesight Improvement?

Orthokeratology has been around since the 1960s and has evolved with advanced lens technology. Today, it offers a precise and effective alternative to surgery for vision correction.

What is the Success Rate of Orthokeratology?

Studies show that 80-90% of patients experience significant vision improvement with ortho-k. Results depend on individual factors, but most see noticeable changes within days or weeks.

Can I Have LASIK After Ortho-K?

Yes, LASIK is possible after ortho-k, but it's rare. Unlike LASIK, which permanently alters the cornea, ortho-k is temporary and adjustable. If discontinued, vision may stabilize at a lower prescription than before treatment.

References:

1. What is ortho-k? (link)
2. What Are Contact Lenses? (link)
3. Ortho-k for myopia control in teenagers (link)
4. What is Orthokeratology? (link)
5. Overnight orthokeratology: the treatment and control of childhood myopia comes of age (link)
6. Four Alternatives to Eyeglasses for Children with Myopia (link)
7. Assessment of Satisfaction, Compliance and Side Effects among Long-Term Orthokeratology Wearers (link)
8. Factors Determining Effective Orthokeratology Treatment for Controlling Juvenile Myopia Progression (link)
9. The Safety of Orthokeratology—A Systematic Review (link)
10. Ortho-k for myopia control (link)
11. Protective Role of Orthokeratology in Reducing Risk of Rapid Axial Elongation: A Reanalysis of Data From the ROMIO and TO-SEE Studies (link)
12. What is orthokeratology? And will it help slow the deterioration of my child's eyesight? (link)
13. Orthokeratology in adults and factors affecting success: Study design and preliminary results (link)
14. Ortho-K: Top 10 FAQs (link)