What is Ortho-K?
Orthokeralogy also known as Ortho-K is the process of reshaping the front surface of the eye (the cornea) using specialized contact lenses called molds.
The goal of Ortho-k is to gradually flatten the front surface of the eye in order to eliminate low to moderate amounts of myopia (near-sightedness) and astigmatism.
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How does Ortho-K work?
The specialty contact lenses, which can be thought of as retainers, are applied at bedtime and gently mold the cornea while you sleep. Upon waking in the morning, the lenses are removed and one can enjoy crisp comfortable vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses!
Ortho-K is safe and completely reversible, but because the effects are not permanent, the retainer contact lenses must be worn each night in order to ensure the best vision during the day.
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Who is a Candidate for Ortho-K?
Ortho-K works for patients with myopia (near-sightedness) and/or low amounts of astigmatism.
A full examination and separate fitting evaluation will be required in order to determine if one is a good candidate for Ortho-K.
Because Ortho-K is completely reversible, one of its many advantages is that is can be performed on patients of all ages—even kids!
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What are the Advantages of Ortho-K?
Ortho-K is a great option for patients who desire freedom from glasses and contact lenses during the day
This can include patients who work in dusty or dirty environments, or those who suffer from dry eyes or ocular allergies. Ortho-k is a nice alternative for these patients.
Ortho-K is also a good option for swimmers and other athletes who desire freedom from contact lenses and glasses.
Ortho K - The Big Picture
If you have myopia (near-sightedness) and/or low amounts of astigmatism and are looking for freedom from contact lenses and glasses, Ortho-K might be a great solution for you!
What our Ortho K patients are saying:
Joelle:
I’ve worn glasses since I was 4 years old. It’s been nice not having to wear them during the day. I don’t have to worry not seeing well while swimming too.
Sophia:
Q: What have you liked about Ortho-K?
A: I like that I don’t have to wear glasses to see clearly during the day. I like that I can see the board at school easily, even if the teacher writes in smaller print.
Q: How has Ortho-K changed your day-to-day lifestyle?
A: It has made my days more convenient. I don’t have to worry about cleaning my glasses all of the time. Sometimes glasses wouldn’t even work as well if my vision changed, which is not a problem now.
Q: Is Ortho-K easy to use?
A: It is easy. It only takes a couple minutes out of my day. It’s easy to learn how to use, and isn’t complicated to keep up.
Q: Would you recommend Ortho-K to your friends?
A: Yes. It’s more convenient than glasses. I would especially recommend it to my athletic friends who would like to play sports without wearing glasses. Also for my theater friends, because it helped me to not have to wear glasses when I’m on stage.
