Am I a good candidate for Orthokeratology?
Most people with mild to moderate myopia (with or without mild astigmatism) are good candidates for ortho-k. Because the corneal reshaping effect is temporary, little risk is involved, and you can discontinue wearing the lenses at any time — provided you are willing to start wearing glasses or contacts again when your myopia returns! Children and young adults who want to be glasses-free but are too young for LASIK or are not good candidates for refractive surgery for other reasons (dry eyes, for example) often are good candidates for ortho-k. People who participate in contact sports or work in dusty environments that can pose problems for contact lens wear also can be good candidates.
What should I expect when I begin Ortho-K?
Our office provides an initial consultation for orthokeratology to determine if you would be a good candidate. After we have performed a comprehensive vision exam you will return to our office for additional measurements so we can design a retainer lens specifically for your eyes. With the help of corneal mapping technology, diagnostic retainer lenses are evaluated on your eyes to determine the best possible design. Once all the information is obtained from the initial evaluation, we will order a custom retainer lens that will provide gentle reshaping of the eyes allowing for clear daytime vision.
When you receive your retainer lenses, the doctor will assess the fit and you will learn how to insert, remove, and clean your new lenses. When you begin to wear ortho-k lenses, you will likely have some awareness of the lenses on your eyes until you fall asleep. With time, the lenses typically become more comfortable immediately upon insertion. Your doctor will want to see you back for routine progress checks to make sure the lenses are providing optimal vision correction. Treatment length will vary for each patient, and lenses may be modified at times in order for you to achieve your goal of great vision!
*Always refrain from wearing your lenses if your eyes become painful, red or sensitive to light. Call your doctor and discuss that next course of action.
