Still, have questions about ortho-K? On this page, we’ve compiled a list of everyday ortho-K programme experiences and frequently asked questions that may help answer some of your questions.
What is the history of ortho-K eyesight correction?
The concept of corneal moulding to cure myopia may have started millennia ago when the Chinese used to drape sandbags over their eyelids to improve eyesight. Ortho-K, as we know it now, has been around since the 1940s and has been continually developed over the decades to offer consistently safe and predictable correction. 1
Is there an age limit for ortho-K?
Ortho-K has no age limit: children as young as six years old have been effectively and securely treated with ortho-K lenses. Because ortho-K has been demonstrated to slow or stop the growth of myopia (short-sightedness), it is one of the most commonly used techniques of vision correction in our practice for teenagers and pre-teens. 2,3
Can ortho-K contact lenses cause eye damage?
Any contact lens has the potential to harm your eyes or create an infection; however, studies show that the rate of infection when wearing ortho-K lenses is less than half that of overnight soft contact lens wear.
4 Correct cleanliness, lens care regimens, and lens replacement every 1-2 years reduce the possibility of problems with ortho-K lens usage. Long-term wear of lenses that do not fit properly may cause corneal damage. In addition, our lenses are built utilising computer software rather than just taking them out of a case and fitting them by trial and error, making them considerably more likely to fit safely from the first lens.
How do ortho-K contact lenses vary from soft disposable lenses?
Ortho-K contact lenses are made of a specially designed, extremely oxygen-permeable material, which differs from soft contact lenses in handling. In addition, although they look to be RGP hard contact lenses, the design on the rear surface of the lens is substantially different to allow for corneal tissue remodelling.
Can I see when wearing my ortho-K contact lenses?
Yes. One of the best things about ortho-K is that you can still see quite well if you wake up in the middle of the night. However, we do not recommend wearing your glasses all day because it may harm your corneal health over time.
Is it necessary for me to wear my ortho-K glasses every night?
During the first several weeks of therapy, you will need to wear your lenses every night to ensure clear vision during the day. However, as your correction stabilises, you may discover that you can still enjoy perfect daytime vision by wearing the lenses only every night! Patients with higher prescriptions before Ortho-K will need to wear the lenses every night for the best results.
