What is Ortho-K and How Does it Work?

At Esther Ahn Optometry, we're dedicated to providing our patients with innovative and effective solutions for clear vision and eye health. One such breakthrough in the field of vision correction is orthokeratology, commonly referred to as Ortho-K. This non-surgical treatment is designed to correct vision while you sleep, allowing you to wake up to clearer sight without the need for daytime glasses or contact lenses.
 

Understanding Orthokeratology

Ortho-K, short for orthokeratology, involves specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses that reshape the cornea (the front surface of the eye) overnight. This reshaping process temporarily corrects refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, providing clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or contacts.
 

How Does Ortho-K Work?

Ortho-K lenses are custom-fitted based on each patient’s unique eye shape and prescription. When worn overnight, these lenses gently reshape the corneal surface, correcting the way light enters the eye and is focused on the retina. In the morning, the lenses are removed, and the patient can enjoy clearer vision throughout the day. The effects of Ortho-K are temporary, so the lenses must be worn consistently each night to maintain clear daytime vision.
 

Who Can Benefit from Ortho-K?

Ortho-K is an ideal option for:
 

• Children with Myopia (Nearsightedness): Ortho-K has gained popularity among children and teenagers as an effective treatment for myopia control. Studies show that Ortho-K can help slow the progression of nearsightedness, which reduces the risk of eye health complications associated with high myopia later in life.
   

• Adults with Active Lifestyles: For those who engage in sports, outdoor activities, or professions where glasses or contact lenses are inconvenient, Ortho-K offers a convenient, hassle-free alternative to traditional eyewear.
   

• Individuals with Dry Eye: Many people find daytime contact lenses uncomfortable, especially if they experience dryness. Ortho-K lenses, worn only at night, reduce the amount of time spent wearing lenses during the day, making them suitable for individuals prone to dry eye.
   

Advantages of Wearing Ortho-K Lenses

One of the most significant advantages of Ortho-K is that it provides a non-surgical solution for vision correction. Unlike LASIK, which permanently alters the cornea, Ortho-K offers a reversible and temporary option. This feature is ideal for individuals who are not yet ready for surgery or may not be suitable candidates for laser eye procedures.
 

Ortho-K also offers freedom from daytime eyewear. Since the lenses are worn only at night, you can enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with active lifestyles, whether they’re involved in sports, outdoor activities, or professions where eyewear might be inconvenient or limiting.
 

For parents, Ortho-K has become an appealing option for managing myopia in children. Myopia, or nearsightedness, often progresses rapidly in children, increasing the risk of eye health issues later in life. By controlling myopia, Ortho-K reduces the risk of high myopia-related complications, such as retinal detachment and glaucoma, providing peace of mind for parents concerned about their child’s vision future.

Finally, one of the practical benefits of Ortho-K is the relatively quick and noticeable improvement in vision. Most patients experience positive changes within the first few nights, with optimal results typically reached within a few weeks.
 

Get Started with Ortho-K at Esther Ahn Optometry Today 

If you’re interested in exploring Ortho-K, a consultation is the first step. During your visit, we’ll assess your eye health and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for this unique vision correction method. Our optometrist will take precise measurements of your cornea to create custom Ortho-K lenses tailored to your vision needs, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness.
 

Schedule your eye exam with Esther Ahn Optometry to learn more about how Ortho-K can benefit you and your family. Visit our office in Cerritos, California, or call (562) 809-4041 to book an appointment today.