The Benefits of Ortho-k for Children With Myopia

Orthokeratology, also known as ortho-k, has had a significant surge in popularity over the past few decades. This is mainly due to its effectiveness in myopia control. Initially considered experimental, ortho-k lenses have gained acceptance following its FDA approval. 

Today, ortho-k is popular for children who have recently developed myopia. It is one of the more effective treatments for slowing down the condition's progression.
 

What Is Orthokeratology or Ortho-k?

Refractive errors often arise from changes in the structure of the eye, particularly the cornea. These changes can impact how light is refracted into the eye, affecting one’s ability to see objects at various distances.

Ortho-k offers a solution by addressing these structural irregularities and improving vision. Through this method, the altered shape of the cornea is modified to achieve better visual acuity. An eye doctor will use corneal topography to ensure an accurate custom fit. 

This technique captures the precise shape of your eye's surface. Utilizing this topographical data allows the eye doctor to create specialized lenses that gently reshape your cornea, resulting in improved vision.

What Does It Treat?

Orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses can correct a range of refractive errors, but it is particularly effective in treating myopia. Eye doctors may prescribe these lenses for the following vision issues:
 

• Astigmatism, which results from irregular corneal curves

• Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, where distant objects appear clearer than nearby objects

• Presbyopia, a condition associated with age-related farsightedness. It makes focusing on close-up objects challenging

What Are the Benefits of Ortho-k?

• It Is noninvasive

Ortho-k employs specialized contact lenses worn during sleep. With it, your child can experience clear vision and enjoy the same freedom as individuals with perfect vision. Specifically, it frees your child from needing eyewear. If you have longed for a glasses-free lifestyle but felt uneasy about laser surgery, ortho-k presents an ideal solution.
 

• It Is low-risk, with high success rate

Orthokeratology (ortho-k) is a noninvasive procedure with significantly lower eye risks. Additionally, wearing the lenses while you sleep reduces the risk of common conditions. Contact lens users often face a higher risk of developing infections and contact lens-induced dry eyes.

Ortho-k is also known for its high success rate, with many patients achieving 20/20 vision. Some reach 20/40 vision within a short period, but the success rate is influenced by various factors. These include the degree of myopia and the cornea's rigidity.
 

• Effective myopia control

In the pursuit of halting the progression of myopia, various strategies have emerged over time. Some have proven effective, mainly when implemented during the early stages of myopia development. 

Among the array of approaches, ortho-k has emerged as one of the most successful methods. It can significantly reduce the final prescription by up to 50%. Ortho-k has demonstrated an ability to limit the progression of myopia effectively.
 

• Convenience

One of the significant benefits of ortho-k is its convenience. It eliminates concerns about forgetting or misplacing glasses. With ortho-k, you will not have to worry about the inconvenience of your child accidentally dropping glasses. The outcome is like having excellent natural vision.

For more on the benefits of ortho-k for children with myopia, visit Creekside Family Eyecare at our office in The Woodlands, Texas. Call (832) 559-3861​​​​​​​ to discuss any questions with our team of experts or to schedule an appointment today.