Who is a Good Candidate for Otho-K?

Orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K, is a revolutionary vision correction technique that has been gaining popularity in recent years. This non-surgical treatment involves the use of specially designed rigid gas permeable contact lenses that gently reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to temporarily improve vision. Unlike traditional contact lenses or eyeglasses, Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight while you sleep, and they work to gradually reshape the cornea over time, reducing or even eliminating the need for corrective lenses during the day.

What is Orthokeratology and How Does it Work?

Orthokeratology works by applying gentle pressure on the cornea while you sleep, causing it to temporarily change shape. The Ortho-K lenses are designed to flatten the central part of the cornea and slightly steepen the peripheral areas. This reshaping of the cornea alters the way light enters the eye, effectively correcting refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
 

The process of Ortho-K is a gradual one, and it typically takes several weeks to several months to achieve the desired vision correction. During this time, you'll wear the Ortho-K lenses overnight, and you'll notice an improvement in your vision during the day as your cornea continues to reshape. Once the desired vision correction is achieved, you can often go through the day without the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses.
 

Who is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?

Ortho-K is a versatile vision correction option that can benefit a wide range of individuals. However, there are certain criteria that make someone a particularly good candidate for this treatment:

•       Myopia (Nearsightedness): Ortho-K is highly effective in treating myopia, which is the most common refractive error. If you have mild to moderate myopia, you may be an excellent candidate for Ortho-K.

•       Children and Teens: Ortho-K is particularly beneficial for children and teenagers who are experiencing progressive myopia. By slowing the progression of myopia, Ortho-K can help prevent the development of more severe vision problems later in life.

•       Active Lifestyle: If you lead an active lifestyle and enjoy sports or outdoor activities, Ortho-K can be a great alternative to traditional corrective lenses. The lenses are worn overnight, allowing you to enjoy your day without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.

•       Dry Eye Concerns: Ortho-K can be a good option for individuals who struggle with dry eyes or discomfort from traditional contact lenses. The Ortho-K lenses are designed to be more comfortable and less drying than conventional contacts.

Factors such as the severity of your refractive error, the health of your eyes, and your overall lifestyle and preferences will all play a role in determining if Ortho-K is the right choice for you. It's always best to consult with an optometrist to determine if you are a good candidate for this vision correction treatment.
 

Myopia Management with Ortho-K

One of the most exciting aspects of Ortho-K is its potential to slow the progression of myopia, especially in children and teenagers. Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a growing global health concern, with the prevalence of the condition increasing dramatically in recent decades.
 

Ortho-K has been shown to be an effective method for myopia control. By gently reshaping the cornea, Ortho-K lenses can help reduce the elongation of the eyeball, which is the primary cause of myopia progression. This, in turn, can slow down the worsening of nearsightedness, potentially preventing the development of more severe vision problems later in life.
 

Studies have demonstrated that Ortho-K can significantly slow the progression of myopia in children and adolescents, with some research suggesting a reduction in myopia progression of up to 50% or more. This makes Ortho-K a particularly attractive option for parents and guardians who are concerned about their children's vision health and want to proactively address the issue of myopia.
 

Is Ortho-K the Right Option for You?

Ortho-K is a versatile and innovative vision correction technique that can benefit a wide range of individuals, from those with myopia to those seeking an alternative to traditional corrective lenses. By gently reshaping the cornea overnight, Ortho-K can provide clear, sharp vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
 

If you're interested in exploring Ortho-K as a vision correction solution, schedule a consultation with Eye & Health. Visit our office in New York, New York, or call (332) 895-2800 to book an appointment today.