What Is Orthokeratology and Who Is the Ideal Candidate?

Orthokeratology, often referred to as Ortho-K, stands as a beacon of innovation in the eye care industry. It is a unique technology that has the potential to change the lives of millions who struggle with vision issues.

What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, in simple terms, is a method of vision correction that doesn't involve surgery or permanent alteration to the eye's structure. It uses specially designed gas permeable contact lenses to gradually reshape the curvature of the cornea, which is the clear, round dome at the front of your eye. This correction of the eye's shape improves the way light enters, resulting in clearer vision.
 

The Ortho-K lenses are typically worn overnight while you sleep. When you wake up and remove the lenses, you find that your vision is significantly improved. This improved vision typically lasts for a day or two, which means you would need to wear the lenses each night to maintain the clarity of vision.
 

The Process of Orthokeratology

The first step involves a comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist. This is to assess the overall health of your eyes and to confirm whether you're a suitable candidate for Ortho-K.
 

Once it's established that you're a good fit, the doctor will measure the curvatures of your corneas using a corneal topographer. This machine creates a detailed map of your eye's surface, which is used to design your custom Ortho-K lenses. When the lenses are ready, you'll be instructed on how to insert, remove, and care for them.
 

The reshaping process happens gradually. Over a few days to a couple of weeks, you'll notice your vision improving. Once your eyes have adjusted completely to the lenses, you can maintain your new, clearer vision by wearing the lenses nightly.
 

Benefits of Orthokeratology

Orthokeratology boasts an array of benefits, some of which are not offered by other vision correction methods. The most obvious benefit is the ability to have clear vision without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. This is particularly advantageous for people who play sports, work in dusty environments, or simply don't like the look or feel of glasses and contact lenses.
 

It's also a great option for those who are not suitable candidates for laser eye surgery, either due to age, eye health, or personal preference. And unlike surgery, the effects of Orthokeratology are reversible. If you stop wearing the lenses, your eyes will return to their original shape, and your vision will revert to what it was before.
 

Additionally, Orthokeratology can slow the progression of myopia (short-sightedness) in children. This is a significant benefit considering the global increase in myopia cases among young people.
 

Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology can benefit a wide range of individuals. It is highly effective for patients with mild to moderate myopia. It can also correct hyperopia (long-sightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related long-sightedness).
 

Children and teenagers who are experiencing a rapid progression of myopia make excellent candidates for Ortho-K. Not only will it correct their myopia, but it will also help slow down its progression. Adults who want a break from glasses and contact lenses but aren't keen on or suitable for laser eye surgery can also benefit significantly from Orthokeratology.
 

The Future of Vision Correction

Orthokeratology is undoubtedly an exciting development in vision correction. Its non-surgical, reversible nature and its ability to slow myopia progression make it a unique offering in the field of optometry. As the technology continues to improve and as more people become aware of its benefits, it's likely that Ortho-K will become a more popular choice for vision correction.
 

Begin Your Journey Towards Clearer Vision Today

Orthokeratology represents an innovative, safe, and effective method of vision correction. It offers an appealing alternative to glasses, contact lenses, and laser surgery. If you're intrigued by the possibility of experiencing clear, natural vision without the need for daytime eyewear, Orthokeratology may be the solution you’ve been looking for.
 

For more information on Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) or to determine if you are a candidate, contact Nuwave Vision at our office in Westlake, Ohio. Call (440) 881-0002 to schedule an appointment today.