Orthokeratology in Arlington Heights
What Are Ortho-K Lenses?
Ortho-k is a non-invasive method used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It involves the use of specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses that are worn during sleep to temporarily reshape the cornea. The reshaped cornea then allows light to properly focus on the retina, resulting in clearer vision when the lenses are removed upon waking. Ortho-k lenses need to be worn consistently to maintain the corneal shape and the resulting visual correction.
Who Can Benefit From Ortho-K Lenses?
Orthokeratology can be a great option for people of all ages who have myopia (nearsightedness) and want an alternative to wearing glasses or contact lenses during the day.
Good candidates include those who have low to moderate myopia, and who are not good candidates for LASIK or other refractive surgeries.
Children and adolescents who are not yet eligible for LASIK due to age restrictions are also excellent candidates for Ortho-K. It's important to consult with an eye care professional to determine if Ortho-K is right for you or your child.
Is Ortho-k Comfortable To Wear?
Ortho-k lenses are custom-made to fit the patient's eyes, so they are generally comfortable to wear while sleeping. Some patients may experience minor discomfort during the initial period of adjustment, which typically lasts a few days. However, most patients report little to no discomfort while wearing the lenses, and many find no problem in wearing them overnight.
Orthokeratology Vision Results
The success rates are generally higher for patients with mild vision prescriptions, but even those with more severe prescriptions can benefit from Ortho-K. While vision improvement is often reported within a day or two of wearing the lenses overnight, the full effects may not be experienced until the lenses have been worn for a few weeks. The ultimate goal of Ortho-K is to achieve 20/20 vision without the need for eyeglasses or contacts during the day.
FDA trial results indicated that more than 65% of Ortho-K patients achieved 20/20 visual acuity. Additionally, more than 90% of Ortho-K patients achieved 20/40 vision, the minimum vision requirment for driving in most states.
It's essential to have regular follow-up appointments with your eye doctor to ensure that your vision is stable and that your lenses fit correctly.
The Cost of Ortho-K
Orthokeratology can be more expensive than traditional contact lenses, but the cost may vary depending on the provider and the complexity of the patient's prescription. However, in the long run, Ortho-K can be cost-effective as it can eliminate the need for purchasing and replacing eyeglasses and contact lenses.
LASIK Surgery After Orthokeratology
LASIK after Orthokeratology can be a viable option for patients who want to maintain their corrected vision without the use of contacts or glasses. However, it is important to wait until the cornea has fully stabilized after Ortho-k, which can take several months.
Ask the Palermo Eye Care team if LASIK after Ortho-k is a good option for your particular situation.
