Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, is a reversible and nonsurgical procedure. It reshapes the cornea using contact lenses. The cornea is the transparent part of your eye that helps focus light into the eye. Ortho-k lenses are for wearing overnight and removing in the morning. They leave you with clear and sharp vision during the day without needing glasses or contact lenses.
 

Vision Correction Without Surgery

Orthokeratology provides nonsurgical vision correction, unlike other forms of refractive surgery like LASIK. Ortho-k does not require tissue removal or incisions. It uses unique contact lenses that reshape the cornea gently while you sleep. These provide you with sharp and clear vision throughout the day.

Ortho-k lenses benefit individuals who do not qualify for other vision correction surgeries. These may include people with dry eyes or thin corneas. Ortho-k is also a good option for teenagers and children who may not be ready for surgical options but want to correct their vision.
 

Reduces Dependence on Glasses and Contact Lenses

Ortho-k lenses reduce your need to wear prescription glasses or contact lenses during the day. They reshape your cornea overnight and correct refractive errors. They then gain clear vision without further need for glasses or contacts. 

Reducing dependence on glasses and contacts is ideal for individuals with active lifestyles. It also helps those who work in environments where glasses or contacts are hazardous or inconvenient. It is also best for people who have trouble remembering to wear their corrective lenses during the day.
 

Prevents Progression of Myopia

Ortho-k contact lenses slow down the progression of myopia in children and teenagers. Myopia is a condition that causes distant objects to appear blurry. It develops when the eye is longer than usual, or the cornea is too curved. It typically starts in childhood and can worsen gradually.

Studies show that wearing ortho-k lenses reduces myopia progression in children and teenagers by up to 50%. As such, the lenses lower the chances of developing eye diseases later in life. They prevent the need for stronger glasses or contact lenses.
 

Improved Visual Acuity and Contrast Sensitivity

Ortho-k contact lenses improve visual acuity and contrast sensitivity, especially in low-light conditions. Visual acuity is the ability to see fine details, while contrast sensitivity is the ability to distinguish between shades of gray. Both are vital for playing sports, driving, and reading.

Ortho-k contact lenses reshape the cornea to reduce the number of higher-order aberrations. These are imperfections in the eye’s optical system. They can reduce contrast sensitivity and improve visual acuity. 
 

Reversible Procedure

Ortho-k lenses are different from other types of refractive surgeries like LASIK. They offer a reversible procedure for vision correction. Your corneas will return to their original shape and vision to their previous state when you stop wearing the lenses. 

Thus, they are a good choice for individuals hesitant about permanent vision correction. They also benefit those with changing prescriptions. It allows them to switch back to glasses or contact lenses without any adverse effects on their eyes.

For more about ortho-k lenses, visit The Eye Man at our office in New York, New York. Call (212) 873-4114 to book an appointment today.