Orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K, is a non-surgical alternative to glasses and contact lenses. If you are a bad candidate for Lasik surgery, this is an excellent alternative.
Q: How Does Orthokeratology Work?
A: With this procedure, you would wear a specially designed contact lens at night. While you sleep, the lens will gently reshape the curvature of your eye. When you wake up, you will have a clear vision, and it will remain clear all day. When you go to sleep, you will put the contacts in again. This would be done every night.
Q: Are There Age Restrictions For Orthokeratology?
A: There are no age restrictions for this treatment method. In fact, this treatment method is often used to treat children with myopia.
Q: If I Have Dry Eye, Am I a Good Candidate For Orthokeratology?
A: Because you would only be wearing the lenses when you are sleeping, and your eyes are closed, it minimizes the amount of tear loss. In most cases, you can use this treatment method if you have dry eye. However, it would be up to your optometrist.
Q: If I Have Astigmatism, Am I a Good Candidate For Orthokeratology?
A: Yes. This treatment is an excellent method for patients with mild to moderate amounts of astigmatism.
Q: Will I Have Perfect Vision After the First Night of Wearing the Lenses?
A: No. It will take time for your vision to be perfect after wearing the contacts. In most cases, it can take 10 to 14 days.
Q: Is This Treatment Method Permanent?
A: No. This treatment method would only work as long as you continue treatment. If you stop wearing the lenses when you go to sleep, your vision will return to its natural state within 72-hours.
Q: Is the Treatment Painful?
A: The treatment is not painful. For the first few days, you might be able to feel the lenses in your eyes. After the first few nights, you won't feel anything. The same is true when the shape of your cornea changes.
Q: What Happens If I Lose Or Damage a Lens?
A: If you lose or damage a lens, you should get a replacement as quickly as possible. In just 72-hours, your vision will return to normal. Also, the glasses or contacts that you used before you started treatment with orthokeratology might not work.
If you are considering getting orthokeratology, you should contact Warm Springs Optometric Group in Fremont. Our optometrist will give you an exam to determine if you would be a good candidate for the procedure