Looking for an alternative vision correction option that doesn’t require traditional eyeglasses or daytime contact lenses? You might be looking for ortho-k lenses.
Orthokeratology (ortho-k) is an overnight vision correction contact lens. You or your child can wear these specially designed lenses while you sleep, so the lens can gently reshape the cornea (the clear front surface of your eye) to improve clarity.
When you wake up and remove them, the improved shape helps your eyes focus properly, giving you clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or contacts.
What Are Ortho-K Lenses?
Orthokeratology (ortho-k) is a nonsurgical vision correction treatment that uses specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses. You wear the lenses overnight to gently reshape the cornea (the eye’s clear front surface) while you sleep.
When you remove the lenses in the morning, you can enjoy improved vision that typically lasts throughout the day.
Ortho-k is most commonly used to correct myopia (nearsightedness), which causes difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
Corneal reshaping lenses like ortho-k have Health Canada approval. Ortho-k is considered a safe, noninvasive alternative to LASIK or other types of refractive surgery.
How Do Overnight Vision Correction Lenses Work?
Ortho-k lenses use gentle hydraulic forces to reshape the cornea temporarily. By flattening the central portion of the cornea, the lenses can adjust how light enters the eye, allowing it to properly focus on the retina.
The cornea holds the improved shape temporarily, resulting in clearer vision. However, since the changes to the cornea aren’t permanent, you need to wear ortho-k lenses nightly to maintain the desired effect.
However, some patients may find that they can wear them every other night, depending on the stability of their vision.
Think of it this way: Corneal reshaping works similarly to how an orthodontic retainer helps improve teeth position—as long as you wear it consistently, you experience the benefits.
Benefits of Ortho-K Lenses
Ortho-k lenses are gaining popularity for a reason. Here are some of the benefits they can offer.
Freedom from Glasses & Daytime Contacts
For individuals with active lifestyles or those who simply don’t like the hassle of glasses or contacts during the day, ortho-k lenses can offer flexibility and freedom. Ortho-k lenses can provide clearer vision without the need for visual aids when you’re most active.
Nonsurgical & Reversible
Unlike LASIK, ortho-k is nonsurgical. It’s a safe option for kids and adults who aren’t good candidates for surgery.
It’s also completely reversible. Your cornea will gradually return to its original shape without any lasting effects if you decide to stop using ortho-k lenses.
Slow Myopia Progression
One of the most exciting applications of ortho-k is in slowing the progression of myopia (nearsightedness) in kids, teens, and young adults.
Myopia is more than blurry vision. It’s a progressive condition that worsens during childhood and can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life. Early intervention can slow progression and help lower risks.
Custom Vision Correction
Ortho-k lenses are custom-designed for each individual’s unique eye shape and prescription, creating a personalized lens solution for vision correction.
Who Can Benefit from Ortho-K Lenses?
Ortho-k lenses are suitable for a wide range of people with myopia, including:
- Kids, teens, & young adults whose myopia is still progressing
- Individuals with mild to moderate myopia
However, not everyone is an ideal candidate. Factors such as corneal shape, overall eye health, and prescription will determine your eligibility. Your eye doctor can discuss your options and provide personalized advice during a consultation.
What is the Process for Starting Ortho-K?
The ortho-k treatment process typically involves the following steps.
Initial Consultation
During your first visit, your optometrist will assess your prescription and eye health to determine if ortho-k lenses are suitable for you. It’s also your time to ask questions about what to expect and what alternatives might work for you.
Corneal Topography
Corneal topography or mapping is an imaging technology used to help capture a detailed 3D map of your cornea. These measurements are critical for designing your custom lenses.
Lens Fitting
During a lens fitting, you’ll try on your custom ortho-k lenses, and your eye doctor will assess the fit. Your optometrist will also provide instructions on how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses.
The goal is to evaluate how the lenses feel and perform because your custom fit should meet your comfort and vision correction needs.
Adjustment Period
It may take a few nights of wear for your cornea to adjust and for you to achieve vision correction. Follow-up appointments help your optometrist monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the lenses.
Maintenance
You’ll need to wear your lenses consistently and care for them properly to maintain clear vision. Your optometrist will provide guidelines for cleaning and storage.
Start Your Vision Correction Journey Today
Ortho-k lenses have changed how we approach vision correction. Whether you’re a parent exploring options for myopia control for your child or an adult seeking freedom from daytime glasses or contacts, ortho-k offers a unique, convenient solution.
At Maple Ridge Eye Care, our focus is personalized vision care, including ortho-k fitting and follow-up services. If you’re curious how overnight vision correction can work for you, book an appointment with one of our optometrists today.
