Orthokeratology Services

What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a safe, non-surgical way to correct vision. Specialised contact lenses gently reshape the cornea during sleep so that patients may enjoy clear vision during waking hours without glasses or contacts. The procedure is non-invasive, reversible, and can be used to treat myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (longsightedness), astigmatism and even presbyopia (inability to focus at near distances). Moreover, it has been shown to be one of the most effective methods for myopia control.

Ortho-K has been practiced for over 50 years and when fitted and worn correctly has a very low rate of complications.

Benefits

Ortho-K is a safe, reversible procedure that is suitable for children and adults.  It is especially beneficial for children and teenagers who have large increases in myopia every year.  In addition to eliminating the need for glasses or contacts during the day, Ortho-K may even decrease or stop the rate of myopic progression. The results are often dramatic and swift, with noticeable results after the first night.

Ortho-K is an excellent option for patients who want to be free of their spectacles but struggle to wear contact lenses during the day, and do not want to take the risks associated with surgery.

When can I be free of glasses?

This depends on your prescription and your eyes.  Noticeable results are often achieved after the first night of lens wear, and generally there will be significant improvement within the first week.  Some people may take longer, depending on the amount of prescription and how quickly the corneas respond.

Is Ortho-K safe? Are there any side effects?

Orthokeratology treatment has many benefits when performed properly.  However, you are more than likely to experience problems and side effects if your lenses are not prescribed properly or if you do not take care of your lenses. The most serious problems usually arise from improper lens care, poorly fitted lenses, or lenses made from old lens materials that limit oxygen transmission and compromise corneal physiology.  Keep in mind that this is a risk of any contact lens, and is not specific to Ortho-k.  In fact, the rate of complications is actually lower with Ortho-K than it is with soft contact lenses.

How much does Ortho-K cost?

Orthokeratology fees range from $1600 to $2000 which covers all required appointments in the first 6 months.  The initial treatment cost involves the doctor’s professional service fee, cost of materials, and aftercare.  Prices are based on the patient’s refractive error, and complexity of individual cases.  A preliminary comprehensive eye examination including corneal topography is necessary to determine if you are a suitable candidate for treatment and we will be able to answer specific questions pertaining to your individual case. These lenses are designed to last approximately two years. If you lose or break or need replacement of your Ortho-K lenses, the costs involved are often less than half the initial fees.

Links to recent papers/ research linking ortho K to myopia control.

http://www.myopiaprevention.org/orthokeratology.html

http://www.menicon.com/corporate/

Orthokeratology practice in children in a university clinic in Hong Kong.

http://refractiveeyecare.com/