What is Ortho-K?

Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, is a non-surgical procedure that uses specially designed contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye.

This reshaping corrects refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, allowing for clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. The effect is temporary, so the lenses must be worn overnight regularly to maintain the vision correction.

Candidates for Ortho-K

Ortho-K is particularly suitable for individuals who want to be free from glasses or daytime contact lenses, especially:

• Children and teenagers with progressing myopia. Ortho-K can help slow the progression of myopia in children, a benefit not provided by regular glasses or contact lenses.
• Adults with mild to moderate myopia and astigmatism.
• Those who engage in sports or work in dusty, windy environments where glasses and contacts are inconvenient.
• Individuals who are not candidates for laser vision correction surgeries like LASIK due to insufficient corneal thickness or other reasons.

Ortho-K Fitting and Follow-Up Process

The process of fitting Ortho-K lenses involves several steps and requires a series of appointments with an eye care professional:

1. Initial Consultation: The eye care professional will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to determine if Ortho-K is suitable for the candidate. This includes assessing the eyes’ health and measuring the corneas’ curvature.
2. Custom Lens Design: Using corneal topography, a detailed map of the cornea is created. This map is used to design the Ortho-K lenses that will effectively reshape the cornea.
3. Lens Fitting: The patient returns for a fitting once the lenses are ready. The eye care professional will ensure the lenses fit properly and instruct the patient on how to insert, remove, and care for them.
4. Follow-Up Visits: Several follow-up visits are necessary to monitor the cornea’s response to the lenses. Adjustments to the lens design may be made to achieve optimal vision correction.

How Ortho-K Helps to Control Myopia

Research shows that Ortho-K can significantly slow the progression of myopia in children. The mechanism involves reshaping the central cornea to refocus light directly onto the retina while simultaneously altering the peripheral refractive error. This appears to reduce the stimulus for eye elongation, which is associated with myopia progression. 

By controlling the rate at which myopia progresses, Ortho-K can contribute to long-term eye health, potentially reducing the risk of developing high myopia-related complications, such as retinal detachment and glaucoma.

Conclusion

Ortho-K offers a viable and effective alternative for those seeking freedom from glasses and traditional contact lenses, especially for children where it provides the additional benefit of controlling myopia progression.

If you or your child are considering Ortho-K, it’s essential to consult with an eye care professional who can provide personalized advice and treatment.

For more information or to book an appointment, contact United Eyecare:

United Optometrist @ Square 2 (Novena MRT🚇)
⏰ Mon-Sun 11.30am – 8pm
📲 WhatsApp: 98251377
📞 63976885

United Eyecare @ Boon Keng MRT🚇
⏰ Mon-Sun 10.30am – 7.30pm
📲 WhatsApp: 88070495
📞 62978298