Ortho K is a non-surgical
process which reshapes (flattens by compression) the cornea
of the eye using contact lenses to reduce refractive errors
(nearsightedness and astigmatism). Flattening the cornea
reduces the focusing power of the eye. Since the amount
of corneal flattening can be accurately controlled, it
is possible to bring the eye into correct focus and compensate
for the refractive error. After the contact lens is removed,
the cornea retains its flattened shape for part or all
of the remainder of the day. A retainer lens must be used
each night to maintain the corneal flattening, or the
myopia will revert to the pre-treatment level. Ortho K
is also successful for some degrees of farsightedness
by steepening the central cornea.
At what age can you do Ortho
K?
Children and adults can be
treated with Ortho K because the principle of flattening
the cornea is effective for both. Myopia control is used
to slow or stop the increase in axial length of the eye
that occurs in growing children who are becoming more
nearsighted each year. This may result in a lower prescription,
so the child won't have to wear the thick lenses he/she
might otherwise require by the time he/she is a teenager.
Is Ortho K a new procedure?
No, the procedure was first
used over 40 years ago when eye doctors noticed that some
contact lens wearers' vision improved after wearing their
lenses. Initially, only old-fashioned, hard contact lens
material (PMMA) was used. A series of lenses were needed,
each lens flattening the cornea a small amount until the
desired results were attained. This took months to years
to accomplish. However, with today’s technology results
are often obtained within a few weeks and only one set
of lenses is needed.
What are the benefits of
Ortho K?
Ortho K is not only an excellent
alternative to the wearing of spectacles, but it also
frees the individual from the distractions caused by perspiration,
dust, wind weather and temperature. There are no more
blind spots caused by frame or lens edges. It is great
to wear "regular" fashion sunglasses, to get
up at night or in the morning and see, to go swimming
and skiing, to drive in a convertible with the top down,
to work in the dust, grass or in the garden, and to be
able to see in cases of emergencies. Ortho K might open
new horizons to you. People in occupations that are hindered
by the use of glasses or contacts may be good candidates
for Ortho K - pilots, policemen, firemen, etc. Be sure
to check with the regulations of your employer prior to
undergoing Ortho K.
If you have
other questions or are interested in finding out if you
are a candidate please contact us at 703.723.3433.
