Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a non-surgical procedure using specially designed contact lenses to gently reshape the curvature of the eye to improve vision.
This is a revolutionary non-surgical procedure that eliminates the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. Using specially designed therapeutic contact lenses, vision is improved by gently reshaping your eye WHILE YOU SLEEP.
Simply insert the specially fitted lenses at bedtime. When you awake, you will have a clear, sharp, natural vision for your waking hours.
Ortho-K is a safe and effective treatment that can correct myopia, near-sightedness (including high prescriptions), farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia (blurred near vision). Orthokeratology is a great alternative to LASIK. Suited for those adverse to the risks or are not ready for surgery.
Are you considering orthokeratology? We’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions to answer your queries and make your decision easier.
What is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a revolutionary non-surgical procedure specially designed to eliminate the need for corrective lenses in the daytime.
Who is Ortho-K for?
Orthokeratology is used to correct myopia (near-sightedness). Ortho-K is also often recommended to correct near-sightedness in children.
How does Ortho-K work?
Ortho-K works by gently reshaping the curvature of your eyes while you sleep to improve your vision. Our ophthalmologist will map and measure the surface of your cornea to create a lens that is specific to your eyes. Insert the specially fitted lenses before bedtime – like contact lenses for sleep – and remove them when you wake up. This will give you clearer and sharper vision during the daytime. The lenses work by gently flattening your cornea to alter the way light enters your eyes. When removed in the day, your cornea will temporarily stay in that shape, allowing you to have a clearer vision.
How long does ortho-k take to work?
Patients can expect to see results within the first few days of treatment and achieve their maximum vision correction within two weeks.
Is Ortho-K new?
The concept behind orthokeratology is not new. However, recent advances in technology – such as the technology used to map the cornea and to create the lenses – have allowed the procedure to be more successful than ever before.
Is Ortho-K safe?
Yes. Ortho-K lenses are very safe so long as you maintain good hand and contact lens hygiene. The most significant risk of Ortho-K lenses is eye infections.
Is Ortho-K permanent?
No. Orthokeratology only regulates your vision so long as you use the lenses. If you choose to stop, your vision will return to its original state in three days.
Can everyone wear ortho-k lenses?
Ortho-K lenses are recommended for individuals with myopia – near-sightedness – with or without astigmatism. They are suitable for individuals of all ages.
Can I see with my Ortho-K lenses in?
Yes. If you need to get up in the middle of the night, you can expect clear vision.
Will I have to replace my ortho-k lenses?
As long as you take care of your lenses correctly, you should only expect to require replacements once a year.
How do I care for my Ortho-K lenses?
Your lenses will need to be disinfected after every use. We will provide you with clear cleaning instructions to suit your individual needs.
What happens if I stop wearing the Ortho-K lenses?
Your vision will return to its normal state in roughly 72 hours.
Is Ortho-K expensive?
The costs of Orthokeratology can vary from person to person. Contact Optical Insight today for a quote.
Are Ortho-K lenses painful?
The lenses should not be painful. You may be aware of the lenses on your eyes, but you should not feel the lenses when you sleep or any physical changes to your eyes when the lenses are removed.
For more information or to book a consultation for Orthokeratology, contact us on (03) 9841 5798 or please fill out the form here and we will contact you to confirm the booking.