Orthokeratology Contact Lenses (Ortho-K)

Orthokeratology is a modern process that makes use of specially designed GP contact lenses to temporarily reshape the contour of the cornea to reduce myopia (nearsightedness). Orthokeratology contact lenses change the shape of the cornea while you sleep producing a temporary improvement in vision for waking hours.

Orthokeratology is also referred to as "ortho-k" corneal refractive therapy or vision shaping.

Research has also demonstrated that orthokeratology lens designs slow the progression of myopia.

Adults can also be treated, particularly under 40 years of age.

People who are not good candidates include those with dry eye syndrome, a large pupil size, or high myopia.

Myopia Control using Orthokeratology

Research on myopia (short-sightedness) and ortho-k have indicated that these lenses can dramatically reduce, or even stop, the progression of short-sightedness in children. Subsequently, their risk of developing associated problems such as glaucoma and retinal detachment in adulthood is also reduced. Similar to other myopia control methods- the ortho-k contact lenses cause a peripheral hyperopic defocus therefore preventing the eye’s axial length increasing as rapidly and slowing the progression of short-sightedness.

Ortho-k is fantastic for children. Parents can be taught to help their children insert and remove their lenses. As lenses are only worn at night and normally at home, there is less fear of losing or breaking lenses (or glasses) as nothing is worn to school. 

Are You A Good Candidate?

Good candidates for orthokeratology include children and adolescents with progressive myopia.
Ideally, your prescription should be in the range -1.00 to -5.00 with no more than -1.75 astigmatism.

You are also a great candidate if you need excellent vision without the use of contacts or glasses. Ortho-K benefits pilots, police officers, military personnel and those with safety concerns such as professional athletes, parents of small children, lifeguards and many others.

Finally, if you just don’t want to be bothered with wearing glasses or contact lenses during a variety of activities such as hiking, playing sports, swimming, skiing, camping, off-road driving, biking, snorkeling, scuba and more- Ortho-K is for you.

Call us on 09064 76111 to make an appointment or discuss your options.