Reshaping eyes, specifically referring to the cornea to improve vision, can be achieved through a non-surgical procedure called Orthokeratology (Ortho-K).
Understanding Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Ortho-K uses specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. This method allows for clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
How Does Ortho-K Work?
-
Corneal Reshaping: Ortho-K lenses apply pressure to the cornea overnight, altering its curvature. This temporary change corrects refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia), astigmatism, and hyperopia (farsightedness).
-
Temporary Effect: The reshaping effects are temporary, and you must wear the lenses every night (or as prescribed by your eye care professional) to maintain clear vision. Once lens wear is stopped, the cornea will gradually revert to its original shape.
-
Non-Surgical: It's important to note that Ortho-K is a non-surgical procedure, offering a less invasive option than laser eye surgery.
The Process of Ortho-K
-
Comprehensive Eye Exam: Your eye doctor will perform a detailed eye examination and take measurements of your cornea to determine if Ortho-K is right for you.
-
Custom Lens Design: Based on the measurements, your doctor will design and fit a series of custom-made rigid contact lenses.
-
Nightly Lens Wear: You wear the lenses while sleeping to reshape your cornea.
-
Regular Checkups: You'll need regular follow-up visits to assess the progress of the reshaping, adjust lenses as needed, and monitor the overall health of your eyes.
Benefits of Ortho-K
- Clear Vision without Daytime Lenses: Provides daytime vision without glasses or contact lenses.
- Slow Myopia Progression in Children: Research indicates that Ortho-K can slow down the progression of nearsightedness in children and adolescents.
- Non-Surgical: Avoids the risks associated with surgical procedures.
- Reversible: The corneal changes are temporary, and the cornea returns to its natural shape when lens wear is stopped.
- Suitable for Active Lifestyles: Ideal for those who find glasses or contacts inconvenient during sports or physical activities.
Is Ortho-K Right for You?
Orthokeratology is suitable for many people, particularly those with:
- Mild to moderate myopia (nearsightedness)
- Mild astigmatism
- Desire for clear vision without daytime glasses or contacts
- Active lifestyles
- Children and teenagers with progressing myopia
Before choosing Ortho-K, you should discuss your eye health and vision correction goals with your eye doctor.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Method | Wearing specially designed rigid contact lenses overnight |
| Purpose | Reshaping the cornea to correct refractive errors |
| Effect | Temporary, requires consistent nightly wear |
| Surgery | Non-surgical |
| Benefits | Clear daytime vision without glasses/contacts; myopia control in children; reversible |
