Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a custom-made, specialty contact lens used to slow or stop the progression of myopia. Unlike traditional contact lenses worn during the day, Ortho-K lenses are more rigid and are worn overnight. Their purpose is to provide clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or daytime contacts. Ideal for children and adults experiencing worsening nearsightedness, Ortho-K is a proactive approach to managing myopia and improving quality of life.
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How It Works
Myopic children have elongated corneas, which causes nearsightedness. Since, myopia is a progressive condition, it will continue to get worse over time. Studies show that Ortho-K can slow or even stop its progression.
The hard contact lens acts as a mold for the cornea overnight, which will maintain its shape and correct vision for the following day. This process can be compared to using retainers help maintain teeth alignment after braces.
Studies show that patients who start myopia management with Ortho-K sooner have the highest potential success in slowing the progression of the disease 1. Children can potentially be candidates for Ortho-K lenses as early as 5 years old, depending on their dexterity level.
Ortho-K is the most intricate myopia management technique, requiring precise custom-fitting of lenses. The process demands a high level of skill from the practitioner, and not all eye doctors have the specialized equipment necessary for measurements and fitting (topographer).
What To Expect During Treatment
Comprehensive Eye Exam
First, your child will receive a comprehensive eye exam from a myopia expert to determine need. This is when your myopia specialist will come up with a plan for treatment. If the doctor decides to move forward with Ortho-K, they will measure your child’s corneas using their specialized equipment (topographer). The doctor will then order custom lenses in preparation for fitting.
Fitting
Once the lenses arrive, the myopia specialist will work with your child to make sure they fit perfectly. This is when your child will learn how to insert and remove the lenses from their eyes. They will also receive instructions for maintenance of their new specialty lenses. The office will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your child’s eyes and make any necessary adjustments.
Nightly Use
Once your child receives their custom Ortho-K contact lenses, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks to fully see all the benefits that they will provide. However, most patients find that their vision has improved after only wearing their lenses for a single night. During the first few days, your child may still need to wear prescription lenses to see clearly enough to see at a distance.
The typical recommended amount of time for continuous nightly use is 7-9 hours, though this can vary on a case-by-case basis. Some patients experience mild discomfort for the first few nights, but as their eyes adjust over a few days, this should no longer be an issue. Please note that the shaping effect it has on the cornea is not permanent. If your child discontinues use, their cornea will return to its original shape soon after.
Maintenance
Unlike traditional soft lenses, Ortho-K lenses last for one year. For this reason, the maintenance is different. When not in use, your child will store the lenses in a chamber, submerged in a specified cleaning solution for a minimum of 6 hours.
The Impact Of Ortho-K
The sense of freedom and convenience Ortho-K offers your child can be life-changing. Freedom from glasses or lenses during the day can be especially impactful for those with active lifestyles, allowing them to engage in sports and other activities without hindrance. This treatment can boost confidence and participation in activities that may have been challenging with traditional eyewear, such as swimming, contact sports, or even just waking up to see clearly.
Additionally, using Ortho-K for myopia management can help reduce the risk of serious eye conditions linked to myopia such as:
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Retinal detachment
- Macular degeneration
- Other conditions that can lead to permanent vision loss
“If my kids had even the slightest amount of myopia, I would start them on Ortho-K for sure,” said Dr. Sami Khaldieh, myopia specialist, reflecting on his experience with providing Ortho-K treatment. “No amount of myopia is safe,” he emphasized.
Ortho-K At Beyond Eyecare in Herndon, VA
Choosing Beyond Eyecare for Ortho-K treatment means receiving care from a skilled Orthokeratologist, Dr. Sami Khaldieh, who specializes in this precise and advanced technique. We are equipped with the latest technology to ensure the most accurate fitting so that your child’s lenses are custom-fitted with optimal effectiveness. Our patient-centered approach ensures that we take the time to understand your unique needs and provide the highest standard of care. With our commitment to quality and consistency, you can trust that you’re receiving the best possible treatment.
At Beyond Eyecare, patients who receive Ortho-K treatment can expect:
- Passion: Our team’s personal experience with high myopia drives their commitment to delivering exceptional myopia management care.
- Preparedness: Equipped with the latest technology, we handle all lens fittings in-house, with our doctors specializing in precise fittings.
- Proficiency: We hold certifications from all major lens manufacturers we use, all of which are FDA-approved for myopia correction.
- Process: We are dedicated to quality and follow a meticulous process to ensure the best possible outcomes.
- Practice: Our doctors are committed to lifelong learning and attend seminars, summits, and conventions to stay at the forefront of myopia management.
FAQs
Is Ortho-K Safe?
Yes, it is an FDA-approved method for correcting myopia. As long as all care and safety guidelines are followed, this is considered a very low-risk treatment.
Is Ortho-K Covered By Insurance?
Unfortunately, health insurance companies and vision plans do not cover orthokeratology at this time.
Does Ortho-K Have Side Effects?
Patients may experience some discomfort while initially adjusting to hard lenses. The degree to which initial discomfort is experienced seldom results in discontinuing orthokeratology treatment.
How Long Does A Pair Of Ortho-K Lenses Last?
The lenses are made from a more rigid material that allows them to be safely reused. With proper care, the lenses are expected to last for one year.
How Long Will It Take To See Clearly Without Daytime Lenses?
Each patient is unique, it may take as little as a few days or up to a few weeks. With each day, your child will see better for longer.
How Come I Haven’t Heard Of Orthokeratology Before?
Ortho-K has been around since the 1940s, however practitioners didn’t commonly integrate it into their practices until the 1990s. Now, it is well recognized in the eye care community and we are working to educate the public along with other healthcare professionals.
