How to Decide If Ortho-k Is the Right Vision Correction for You

Published on January 27, 2023 ​​​​​​​

Since the invention of eyeglasses, science and development in vision correction have come a long way. On the market today are numerous vision correction options. In the U.S., more than 150 million individuals rely on corrective lenses to help them see more clearly. 

 

Wearing them daily can be difficult despite their effectiveness. Imagine waking up every morning with good eyesight that serves you throughout the day. That is precisely what ortho-k lenses can do.

 

 

What Is Ortho-k?

 

 

Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, is the fitting of custom-made gas-permeable contact lenses designed to help improve vision overnight. You do not need to wear them during the day to improve your vision. 

 

These lenses reshape your cornea as you sleep, providing one or two days of temporary vision improvement after overnight wear. Most patients who use these lenses achieve 20/20 vision or better.

 

 

How Does It Work?

 

 

With refractive errors, the problem often lies in the shape of your cornea and your lenses. If either, or both, has an irregular shape, the light that passes through does not focus properly onto your retina. That results in distorted vision.

 

Orthokeratology is a technique in which custom-made rigid gas-permeable lenses reshape your cornea each night. That allows you to wake up with better vision since your cornea retains its shape throughout the day.

 

 

What Vision Problems Can It Treat?

 

 

The lenses can help correct myopia, astigmatism, hyperopia, and sometimes presbyopia. Besides improving eyesight, they can also halt or slow the progression of these refractive errors, especially in kids.

 

 

How to Decide Whether Ortho-k Is Good for You

 

 

If you are considering orthokeratology as a treatment option, the following steps will help you determine whether it is the right choice for you:

 

 

Consult an Eye Doctor

 

 

Ortho-k is not for everyone. It is best to consult an eye doctor to determine whether it is the best treatment option for you. To know if it is viable, your eye doctor will assess your specific vision needs and any potential health concerns.

 

 

Consider Your Lifestyle

 

 

Regular daytime corrective eyewear may hamper people participating in sports or other activities. Such people may find ortho-k a convenient treatment option. However, maintaining your improved eyesight requires consistent and regular use of the special lenses. You may have better options if you cannot commit to the treatment plan.

 

 

Discuss Your Expectations With Your Eye Doctor

 

 

You should maintain realistic expectations regarding the potential outcomes of this treatment. Your eye doctor will provide more information on the possible speed and effectiveness of treatment in your specific case.

 

 

Consider the Potential Side Effects and Risks

 

 

Ortho-k, like any medical treatment, has risks and potential side effects. These include infection, allergic reactions, dry eye, corneal irritation, and temporary vision changes. Before deciding if it is right for you, weigh the potential benefits and risks carefully.

 

 

Consider the Cost

 

 

This treatment can be more expensive than daytime contact lenses or eyeglasses, especially if you need new lenses frequently. Before deciding, it is best to consider the overall cost of treatment and compare it to other vision correction options.

 

It is best to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor for a comprehensive assessment. That will help you decide if these special lenses are something you want to try.

 

For more on orthokeratology lenses, visit Dau Family Eye Care at our St. John’s, Florida office. Call (904) 713-2020 to schedule an appointment today.

132 Everest Ln, Ste 5
St. John's, FL 32259
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