Orthokeratology

What is orthokeratology (Ortho-K) and how does it work?
ORTHOKERATOLOGY, OR ORTHO-K, IS A NON-SURGICAL PROCEDURE THAT WILL REDUCE OR ELIMINATE MYOPIA (NEARSIGHTEDNESS) AND ASTIGMATISM. This procedure involves the use of specially designed therapeutic contact lenses. In order to create a therapeutic lens, the surface of your eyes is mapped using a high tech instrument called a topographer. This allows the doctor to create a custom lens specifically designed for your eye and its unique visual problems. ​ It improves vision by gently reshaping your eyes towards a normal contour while you sleep. When you wake up, you will have clear, sharp natural vision for your waking hours.  

What is myopia and astigmatism?
Myopia, more commonly known as nearsightedness, occurs when the cornea focuses light in front of the retina, thereby causing blurred distance vision. Approximately 70% of those who become nearsighted start between the ages of 7 and 15. Myopia is a progressive condition -- once it starts, it progresses to varying levels of severity and can lead to sight threatening conditions like retinal detachments and glaucoma. Studies have shown that Ortho-K lenses can slow myopia. Numerous published studies have documented that children wearing ortho-K lenses to experience little to no myopic progression during treatment. 

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is irregularly shaped. This causes blurred vision, headaches and other symptoms. The irregularly shaped cornea can often be returned to its natural state using the Ortho-K procedure and thus reducing or eliminating astigmatism.

Is ortho-K safe?
Ortho-K is a very safe and reversible procedure. It was approved by the FDA in 2002. The lens is made from an advanced highly oxygen permeable material which allows your eye to breathe overnight and maintain excellent health. However, as with any contact lens wear, there is a small risk, most typically a minor infection easily addressed by antibiotic drops. This risk is greatly minimized by adopting a regime of very careful cleaning and disinfecting, by wearing the lenses as prescribed by your doctor and by maintaining the necessary progress visits.

How do you know if ortho-K is for you?
​Before a patient starts Ortho-K, a careful and detailed predictability study is performed. This predictability study indicates the amount of corneal deviation from normal that the patient has. The doctor can predict how much corneal myopia and astigmatism is correctable.

Who can benefit from Ortho-K? 
Anyone who is nearsighted or astigmatic in a moderate amount shows potential of change. There is no age restriction to ortho-K and children make great ortho-K wearers. This safe and effective treatment eliminates the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses and is a great alternative to LASIK for those who are not ready for surgery. 

If you would like additional information about Ortho-K, please call our office...

CUPERTINO: (408) 777-8771