If you or your child have been diagnosed with myopia, you’re likely on the lookout for effective treatments to manage this common vision condition. One increasingly popular option is orthokeratology, often referred to as Ortho-K lenses. But what exactly are Ortho-K lenses, and how can they benefit you or your child?
Ortho-K lenses, or orthokeratology lenses, are a type of hard contact lens that are worn overnight to reshape your cornea while you sleep. The benefits of Ortho-K lenses will last throughout the following day, meaning you won’t have to wear glasses or regular soft contact lenses.
Understanding Myopia
The most common use for Ortho-K lenses is to treat myopia. Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. This happens because the eye shape causes light rays to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it.
Myopia often begins in childhood and can progressively worsen over time. However, treating myopia can slow or even halt the progression of the disease. Ortho-K lenses are one of several myopia treatment methods appropriate for both children and adults.
What Are Ortho-K Lenses?
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, involves the use of specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses that temporarily reshape the cornea. Unlike regular contact lenses that correct vision while they’re worn, Ortho-K lenses are typically worn overnight.
While you sleep, Ortho-K lenses gently reshape the corneal surface, correcting the refractive error caused by myopia. When you wake up and remove the lenses, you can enjoy clear vision without needing glasses or contacts throughout the day.
Benefits of Ortho-K Lenses
No Surgery Required
Ortho-K is a non-invasive alternative to laser eye surgery. This makes it especially suitable for children while their eyes are still developing, as well as anyone else who would prefer to avoid surgical procedures.
Freedom from Daytime Contacts and Glasses
Wearing Ortho-K lenses during the night means it won’t be necessary to wear glasses or contact lenses during the day. This allows you or your child to participate in vigorous activities like sports without fear of broken glasses or dropped contacts, and even makes wearing sunglasses easier.
How Long Do Ortho-K Lenses Last?
Wearing Ortho-K lenses overnight will cause their benefits to last until the following day. Most people’s vision will improve for 24 to 72 hours after wearing Ortho-K lenses for one night. Since Ortho-K lenses are normally worn nightly, the benefits will effectively last as long as you continue to use them regularly.
How Much Do Ortho-K Lenses Cost?
One pair of Ortho-K Lenses will normally cost $1000-$4000 up-front for the professional lens fitting, the first pair of lenses, and the cleaning solution required to maintain them (not including insurance coverage). After the up-front costs, the cost for follow-up eye exams and replacement lenses typically runs $300-$500/year (again, not including insurance coverage).
Are Ortho-K Lenses Right for You?
Ortho-K lenses can be a game-changer for those dealing with myopia, but they’re not suitable for everyone. Factors such as age, corneal shape, and overall eye health play a role in determining candidacy. Consulting with an eye care professional is the first step in finding out if Ortho-K lenses are the right solution for you or your child.Are you ready to explore the possibilities of Ortho-K lenses? Book an appointment with Littlefield Eye Associates today to learn more and get started on the path to clearer vision.
