Orthokeratology: Correcting Corneal Refractive Errors

No one likes the hassle of glasses and contact lenses; and surgery doesn’t come without it’s own set of reservations. Several years ago it seemed these were your only options for correcting refractive errors. But now a new form of lens correction has surfaced in the optical field of medicine. That is orthokeratology or OrthoK.

What is Orthokeratology?

OrthoK is a specially designed process of corneal refractive therapy that uses contact lenses that you apply at night to adjust your vision for the day. These lenses work by gently reshaping the cornea while you sleep so that you have perfect vision the following day. There are several different kinds of OrthoK lenses in the field of corneal refractive therapy. See if your eye doctor will help you decide which ones to get after a proper examination.

What Can OrthoK Correct?

OrthoK can be used to correct many different lens refraction errors including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. The type of error and degree of severity that OrthoK can correct varies for each patient. Generally the lenses allow you to see for two days without needing contacts or glasses however, it is recommended to wear them nightly for the best results.

Are You a Candidate?

Most cases of myopia can be corrected with ortho-k, granted they aren’t too severe, as well as mild cases of astigmatism. Children and adults that don’t want glasses, contacts, or surgery are qualified for ortho-k. Many athletes that are unable to wear glasses or contacts are also great candidates.

Orthokeratology presents an opportunity for those with refractive errors that was not available before. Now there is no need for glasses, contacts, and in some cases surgery. Because the effects are only temporary, OrthoK is completely risk free and safe for most ages. Consult your eye doctor to discuss the benefits of OrthoK, and see if you are eligible to start changing how you see the world.