Behavioural Optometry - Vision Training - Holistic Approach - Eyecare for all ages
A solution to be glasses and contact lenses free
Orthokeratology, also known as OrthoK or Corneal Refractive Therapy, is a non-invasive approach to correcting vision using custom contact lenses that reshape the cornea during sleep. These lenses are worn overnight and removed in the morning, resulting in clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts.
OrthoK has emerged as a secure, effective, and reversible option to correct refractive errors, without undergoing surgery. By reshaping the cornea, which is naturally pliable, OrthoK lenses provide temporary vision improvement.
A myopia control option
Orthokeratology (Ortho-k) night lenses create peripheral defocus by reshaping the cornea of the eye overnight while the child is sleeping. The lenses are designed to flatten the center of the cornea while increasing the curvature of the peripheral cornea. This creates a myopic defocus in the peripheral retina, which can help to slow down the progression of myopia.
The myopic defocus created by Ortho-k lenses works in a similar way to the defocus created by MiSight contact lenses. By providing a slightly blurred image on the peripheral retina, the lenses send a signal to the eye to slow down the growth of the eye, which is responsible for the progression of myopia.
Since the lenses provide clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses during the day, they can be particularly beneficial for children who are active or participate in sports. However, it is important to note that Ortho-k lenses are not suitable for everyone and require regular monitoring and cleaning to ensure best performance and efficacy.
Who is it for?
- Any age can wear OrthoK lenses
- Individuals with mild to moderate degree of myopia (short-sightedness) and mild degree of astigmatism can wear OrthoK lenses.
- The degree of optical prescription and other factors can affect the resulting vision. Hence, every individual may experience different level of clarity with the OrthoK lenses
Benefits
- Operate through the day without spectacles or contact lenses!
- Temporary change that is reversible (less risk than permanent laser correction)
- Research backed to help slow the continuous prescription changes in children with myopia.
- Changes can be made at any time to suit your visual demands
- Reduced risk of serious corneal infecions than soft contact lenses
Disadvantages
- Does require several visits during the fitting process to ensure correct fit is achieved.
- Regular six monthly reviews are required to ensure best vision is maintained.
- Level of correction can be compromised for individuals with higher prescriptions and complex corneal patterns.
- Speed of correction can vary amongst individuals.
- Require diligent maintainence and cleaning methods.