Top 5 Reasons To Try Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Dr. Kirsten Carter, B.Sc., M.Sc., O.D.
What is orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, is a method used to temporarily alter the corneal surface during sleep, in order to correct the eye’s prescription. This is done through the overnight wear of specialty contact lenses. Ortho-K will in turn improve your daytime vision and reduce your need for glasses or conventional soft contact lenses throughout the day. Simply put, when you wake up, you can SEE!
Why should you try ortho-k?
1. Convenience! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - this method of correction is highly convenient in minimizing your need for glasses or contact lenses. Imagine going about your day from the beginning without needing to insert your contacts, or look for your glasses! No foggy lenses in the winter or smudges in the rain!
2. Are you active? Maybe you play a lot of sports, or you’re busy/on the go in general. Ortho-k correction is a great way to ensure your vision is corrected to keep you at the top of your game, whatever that may be for you, without the worry of fitting a pair of glasses underneath a helmet!
3. Have you always wanted clear vision while swimming? With ortho-k, you can swim competitively or have a relaxing beach day while being able to see clearly. You will reduce your risk of getting an eye infection from swimming in contacts and can enjoy your beach vacation to its fullest!
4. Is an increasing prescription a concern for you, or for your children? Ortho-k may be helpful in slowing down the progression of myopia/nearsightedness. Ortho-k wear has shown to be very effective at reducing the growth of the eye, which in turn, slows the progression of myopia.¹ ² These specialty lenses are widely accepted as an excellent option for myopia control.
5. Did I mention it’s reversible? The effect of wearing ortho-k lenses will last throughout the day, and will only remain as long as you continue to sleep in your ortho-k lenses. So, if you eventually wish to go back to your contacts or glasses, you are free to do so at any time!
A few things to remember…
Just like trying anything new, ortho-k takes some getting used to, especially if you have never worn contact lenses before. However, this adaptation period will be over quickly and you’ll be on your way to clear vision before you know it!
Every person is unique and has different visual needs. Our goal is to try to find the vision solution that is right for you. Ask your optometrist if you might be a candidate for this lens option.
We look forward to seeing you at Insight Eye Care for your ortho-k consultation!
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1. Sun Y, Xu F, Zhang T, et al. Orthokeratology to control myopia progression: a meta-analysis. PLoS One 2015;10:e0124535.
2. Walline JJ. Myopia Control: A Review. Eye Contact Lens 2016;42:3-8.
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