Parenting means making informed decisions about your child’s well-being. If your child has been diagnosed with myopia (nearsightedness), you’re likely exploring options to slow the progression of this condition. Ortho-k lenses—short for orthokeratology lenses—are one effective way to manage myopia.
Ortho-k lenses are designed to be worn overnight, during which time they gently and temporarily flatten the cornea. This is especially beneficial for correcting refractive errors like myopia. These lenses can significantly slow myopia progression in children, reducing the risk of severe eye complications later in life.
An optometrist specializing in ortho-k can help your family fit your child or teenager for ortho-k lenses and guide you through best practices to maximize this tool.
What is Myopia Control?
Myopia control refers to efforts to slow the progression of nearsightedness. Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurry distance vision. Left unchecked, myopia often worsens over time, increasing the risk that a person will develop severe eye conditions like retinal detachment or glaucoma later in life.
Thankfully, scientific advances have given us practical tools for managing myopia in children and young adults, and ortho-k lenses are one such development.
Ortho-K for Myopia Control
How Does Ortho-K Work?
Ortho-k lenses are specially designed, gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight while sleeping. They temporarily reshape the cornea (the eye’s clear front surface) in order to correct vision. When removed in the morning, the reshaped cornea allows for clear vision throughout the day—no glasses or daytime contact lenses are required.
Think of it as orthodontics for your eyes. ortho-k lenses gently and painlessly flatten the cornea and correct the refractive error responsible for nearsightedness. The effect is non-permanent, so wearing the lenses each night is necessary to maintain clear daytime vision.
How Does Ortho-K Control Myopia?
Beyond providing clear vision, ortho-k lenses have been clinically proven to slow the progression of myopia in children by controlling how light focuses on the peripheral retina. This process helps regulate the growth of the eye, reducing the likelihood of myopia worsening over time.
The Benefits of Ortho-K Lenses in Managing Myopia Progression
Here’s why ortho-k has become a leading choice for myopia control:
- Non-Invasive: Ortho-k is non-invasive and fully reversible. This makes it a safer option for children.
- Freedom from Daytime Glasses or Contacts: Ortho-k helps make daytime vision crystal-clear without needing daytime glasses or contact lenses. This can make it ideal for active children (and adults).
- Slowing Myopia Progression: By reducing the rate of myopic progression, ortho-k lenses may reduce the risks associated with severe myopia.
- Convenient Routine: Since the lenses are worn only at night, they eliminate the hassle of wearing corrective eyewear during the day.
Who is Ortho-K For?
Ortho-k lenses suit many people, especially children and young adults whose eyes are still growing.
What Can You Expect from Ortho-K?
Here’s what you can anticipate:
- Initial Fitting: Someone with myopia will require a professional fitting session with an eye care specialist. This involves precise cornea measurements using mapping technology to design custom lenses.
- Adjustment to Nighttime Wear: After a short adjustment period, most people find ortho-k lenses comfortable to wear overnight. Because the lenses are only worn during sleep, daily life remains uninterrupted.
- Visible Results: Many people notice a significant improvement in vision within a few days, with full corrective effects typically achieved after two weeks.
Fitting Process & Wearing Instructions
The road to clear vision with ortho-k starts with a professional fitting process:
- Comprehensive Eye Exam: Your optometrist will assess your suitability for ortho-k through a thorough eye exam and corneal mapping.
- Custom Lens Design: Based on the mapping results, custom lenses are created to fit the unique shape of your cornea.
- Lens Trials: You’ll receive trial lenses and precise insertion, removal, and care instructions.
- Wearing Guidelines: Simply insert the lenses before bed and remove them in the morning. Follow all hygiene protocols to avoid complications and keep lenses clean.
Potential Side Effects
Like any vision correction method, ortho-k may have some side effects. These are typically mild and temporary but could include:
- Initial discomfort when wearing the lenses
- Slight glare or halos around lights
- Mild dry eye symptoms
These side effects usually subside as your eyes adjust. Regular follow-ups with your optometrist will ensure any issues are addressed promptly.
Considerations Before Using Ortho-K
To make the most of ortho-k, keep these essential considerations in mind:
Regular Follow-Up Appointments
Consistency is key. Regular check-ins with your optometrist ensure the lenses fit well and your child’s vision correction is on track.
Lens Care
Proper cleaning and storage of ortho-k lenses is crucial for eye health and performance. Follow all recommended cleaning practices without fail.
Reversible Effect
Ortho-k’s reshaping effect is temporary. If your child stops wearing the lenses, their cornea will gradually return to its natural shape, making their vision blurry again. This means that it’s important to wear the lenses regularly overnight.
Discover Clear Vision with Ortho-K
Ortho-k lenses are more than just a way to see better—they’re a proactive step toward managing myopia and protecting long-term eye health. Whether you’re a parent exploring the best options for your child or someone looking for freedom from daytime eyewear, See & Co recommends ortho-k as an innovative solution that delivers on its promises. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and determine whether your loved one is a good candidate for ortho-k lenses.
