Ortho-K lenses are special contacts that temporarily reverse and reduce refractive error. They are FDA approved and treat low to moderate myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. They are convenient and cater to many types of needs and lifestyles because the lenses are worn while you sleep. While you rest, they reshape the front surface of your cornea, allowing you to have better vision during the day.
Ortho-k lenses are gas permeable, so they are safe to sleep in. This material allows for oxygen to circulate in the eye. The results are rapid and evident within a few days. However, the process is fully reversible once you stop wearing the lenses.
The fitting of ortho-k lenses is through orthokeratology. Orthokeratology is a corneal refractive therapy procedure. It is non-invasive and is suitable for all ages, from children to adults. Most patients find it to be a good alternative to getting corneal refractive surgery.
Using a corneal topographer, your doctor will measure the curvature of your cornea. Ortho-k lenses are then custom fit to cater to the needs of your eye. It takes multiple fittings to get what fits you right, but it is worth it. It will help you get better results for vision correction.
The root of this therapy is in the design of the lenses. Ortho-k lenses are specially made for corneal reshaping. As you sleep, the lenses form a vault of tears over the eye. This vault varies in thickness over different parts of the cornea.
It causes some parts that are thinner to take in some fluid and others that are thicker to dehydrate. Through this process, the cornea mimics the shape of the lens. This corrects the curvature of the front part of your eye.
With time, it improves your sight by allowing for objects to focus on the retina. As your vision improves, your doctor will replace your lenses to fit your prescription. This continues until you reach the perfect prescription for your eyes.
At the end of the orthokeratology therapy, you will be using retainer lenses. Retainer lenses will help maintain the perfect vision you now have. However, ensure that you keep to the routine. Although the effects of the lenses last for more than a day, wear your lenses every night. This is because ortho-k is reversible.
Wearing your lenses every night will ensure you maintain your sight during the day. Ortho-k lenses are wearable during the day, but it is not advisable. This is because they are reshaping lenses, so they will be uncomfortable.
Ortho-k lenses are great for all ages, from children to adults. Refractive surgery is only for those who are 18 years and over. This leaves ortho-k lenses as a great alternative for those who are younger. It is also perfect for those who do not want to wear spectacles or contact lenses during the day. It could be because of their active lifestyle or just as a preference.
The goal of wearing ortho-k lenses is to improve and correct your vision, so expect it! During FDA trials, there was a 20/40 vision improvement in 95 percent of patients. 73 percent of patients achieved 20/20 corrected vision.
To learn more about ortho-k lenses, contact Korb & Associates at our office in Boston, Massachusetts. You can call (617) 322-0534 today to schedule an appointment.
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