Who is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?

Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, is an innovative, non-surgical vision correction option for individuals looking to manage myopia (nearsightedness) and reduce the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. Whether you're exploring this option for yourself or your child, understanding who is a good candidate for Ortho-K is crucial.
 

What is Ortho-K?

Ortho-K refers to specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses that temporarily reshape the cornea (the front surface of the eye) while you sleep. By gently reshaping the cornea, Ortho-K lenses correct refractive errors such as myopia, allowing you to experience clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
 

How Does Ortho-K Work?

The Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight and work by flattening the cornea in a controlled manner. This reshaping adjusts how light is focused on the retina, improving vision clarity. Once the lenses are removed in the morning, you can experience clear vision throughout the day. The effects typically last for a full day, but continued nighttime wear is necessary to maintain the corneal shape and clear vision.
 

Who is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?

Not everyone is suited for Ortho-K, but it offers benefits to a wide range of individuals. Here are some key criteria that make someone a good candidate for Ortho-K:
 

• Individuals with Myopia (Nearsightedness): Ortho-K is highly effective for people with mild to moderate levels of myopia. It's particularly useful for children, as it can help slow the progression of nearsightedness, reducing the risk of developing severe myopia later in life.
   

• Active Individuals: If you participate in sports or other physical activities where glasses or daytime contact lenses may be inconvenient or uncomfortable, Ortho-K can offer a clear, lens-free vision during the day.
   

• Those Looking for a Non-Surgical Option: For individuals who are not ready or suitable for laser eye surgery (like LASIK), Ortho-K provides a safe and reversible alternative.
   

• Children and Adolescents: Ortho-K is a leading option for managing myopia in children. Since myopia often worsens during childhood and adolescence, Ortho-K can be an effective tool in slowing down the progression.
   

• People with Dry Eyes from Daytime Contacts: Some individuals find that wearing contact lenses during the day causes dry eyes. Since Ortho-K lenses are worn at night and removed during the day, this can alleviate dryness and discomfort.
   

Getting Fitted for Ortho-K

Fitting Ortho-K lenses is a specialized process that requires careful evaluation by an optometrist. During your consultation at De Anza Vision Center, our optometrist will:
 

• Conduct a Comprehensive Eye Exam: This exam will determine your prescription and assess your overall eye health to ensure you're a suitable candidate for Ortho-K.
   

• Map Your Cornea with Topography: Using corneal topography, the optometrist will create a detailed map of the surface of your eye. This helps in designing custom Ortho-K lenses that fit your unique corneal shape.
   

• Custom Lens Fitting: Based on the corneal topography, the Ortho-K lenses will be custom-made to fit your eyes. You'll wear these lenses at night, and the optometrist will monitor your progress to ensure optimal results.
   

• Follow-Up Care: After your initial fitting, follow-up visits will be scheduled to check how well the lenses are reshaping your cornea and to make any necessary adjustments.
   

Ready to Experience Clear Vision Without Daytime Lenses?

Ortho-K can be a life-changing option for those looking to reduce their dependence on glasses or daytime contacts. It's particularly beneficial for children and active individuals. To determine if you're a good candidate for Ortho-K, schedule a consultation with De Anza Vision Center and take the first step toward clearer vision without the hassle of daytime lenses or glasses. 
 

Contact De Anza Vision Center to see if Ortho-K is the right solution for you or your child.Visit our office in San Jose, California, or call (408) 446-5533 to book an eye exam today.