Ortho-K overnight lenses offer a convenient and non-invasive option for controlling myopia, especially in children and young adults. These specially designed lenses gently reshape the cornea through orthokeratology while you sleep, reducing the need for daytime corrective lenses like glasses or contacts. At Modern Vision Solutions, we focus on providing personalized care to help you or your child manage myopia effectively. If you’re interested in learning more about Ortho-K and how it could benefit you, schedule a youth eye exam with Modern Vision Solutions today.
What are Ortho-K Overnight lenses?
Ortho-K overnight lenses are customized contact lenses that gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, allowing them to see clearly during the day without the need for glasses or daytime contacts. These lenses are particularly effective for those with near-sightedness (myopia), far-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Ortho-K lenses have been shown to slow the progression of myopia in kids and teens, which can help reduce the risk of eye diseases later in life. Additionally, Ortho-K is a practical solution for athletes who prefer not to wear glasses or contacts during sports and for adults who want to avoid the need for reading glasses as they age. At Modern Vision Solutions, we use corneal topography and advanced optics to provide tailored Ortho-K treatments, ensuring the best possible outcomes for clear, comfortable visual acuity in everyday life.
How do Ortho-K lenses help control myopia?
Ortho-K lenses help control myopia by altering the way light is focused inside the eye. These lenses gently flatten the cornea, which changes its shape and reduces its focusing power, allowing light to be properly focused on the retina for clear vision. This flattening also creates a unique corneal profile that causes peripheral light rays to focus in front of the retina. Studies suggest that this shift in peripheral light focus sends a ‘stop’ signal to the eye, which can slow the progression of myopia, enhancing visual perception and long-term efficacy. At Modern Vision Solutions, we utilize Ortho-K lenses as a part of our comprehensive approach to managing and controlling myopia, particularly in children and teenagers.
7 Benefits of Ortho-K lenses for Myopia Control
- Corrects Refractive Errors
These lenses can effectively correct various refractive errors, including myopia, presbyopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. - Slows Myopia Progression
Ortho-K lenses help slow the progression of myopia, reducing the risk of developing serious eye conditions later in life that are associated with moderate to high myopia. - Provides Fast Results
Ortho-K lenses can deliver quick vision correction, with some individuals experiencing clear vision after just one night of wear. For those with stronger prescriptions, optimal results may take a few days to a few weeks. - Ensures Clear Vision All Day
The corneal reshaping achieved overnight typically lasts throughout the entire day, and in some cases, even up to two days. - Offers Comfort
Ortho-K lenses are custom-made using precise mapping technology, ensuring a comfortable fit tailored to the individual’s eyes. - Allows for Temporary Corneal Reshaping
The changes Ortho-K lenses make to the cornea are not permanent. If a patient decides to pursue laser refractive surgery later, discontinuing lens use will allow the cornea to return to its original shape, enhancing the outcome of the surgery. - Maintains Excellent Safety Record
When used correctly and with proper hygiene, Ortho-K lenses are a safe method of vision correction. They are also FDA approved, reflecting their safety and effectiveness.
How safe are Ortho-K lenses for myopia control?
Ortho-K lenses are a safe, non-surgical, and reversible option for controlling myopia. Unlike standard contact lenses that can restrict oxygen to the eye if worn overnight, Ortho-K lenses are specifically designed for overnight use, allowing them to gently reshape the cornea through orthokeratology while your child sleeps. It’s essential to follow your child’s eye doctor’s instructions on proper handling and care to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the lenses. At Modern Vision Solutions, we prioritize kids’ eye health and are here to provide guidance and support for Ortho-K treatment.
How long do Ortho-K lenses need to be worn for myopia control?
Ortho-K lenses need to be worn consistently throughout childhood to effectively control myopia progression. Since most myopia progression occurs during childhood and typically stabilizes in the late teens or early adulthood, continued use of Ortho-K lenses during these years is crucial. If Ortho-K lens wear is stopped, there is a risk of accelerated myopia progression, sometimes referred to as a “rebound effect,” particularly if stopped before age 14. Monitoring myopia closely during and after Ortho-K treatment is essential, and resuming lens wear is recommended if faster progression is observed. At Modern Vision Solutions, we ensure thorough monitoring and provide guidance on the optimal duration of Ortho-K use for effective myopia control.
Take Control of Myopia with Ortho-K Lenses
Ortho-K lenses offer a safe, effective, and non-invasive way to manage myopia, particularly for children and teenagers. By wearing these lenses overnight, your child can enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or contacts. Modern Vision Solutions is committed to helping your child achieve the best possible vision health. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn how Ortho-K can be a part of your myopia management plan.
FAQ’s About Ortho-K Overnight Lenses for Myopia Control
How does Ortho-K compare to other myopia control methods?
Ortho-K offers a non-invasive alternative to other myopia control methods, such as atropine eye drops or multifocal contact lenses. Unlike these methods, Ortho-K lenses provide the dual benefit of correcting vision and controlling myopia progression overnight, allowing for clear, lens-free vision during the day. Modern Vision Solutions will help you choose the best myopia control method for your child, tailored to their specific needs.
Who is a good candidate for Ortho-K lenses?
Good candidates for Ortho-K lenses include children and young adults with mild to moderate myopia, as well as those with astigmatism or hyperopia. Ortho-K is particularly beneficial for those who are not suitable candidates for LASIK or who want to avoid wearing glasses or contact lenses during the day. Modern Vision Solutions offers personalized evaluations to determine if Ortho-K is right for you.
How long does it take to see results with Ortho-K lenses?
Most patients experience significant improvement in their vision after just one night of wearing Ortho-K lenses. However, achieving optimal vision correction may take a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity of your refractive error. At Modern Vision Solutions, we monitor your progress closely to ensure you achieve the best possible results as quickly as possible.
Can Ortho-K lenses correct astigmatism?
Yes, Ortho-K lenses can correct astigmatism as well as myopia and hyperopia. The custom-designed lenses reshape the cornea overnight, effectively addressing astigmatism and providing clear vision during the day. At Modern Vision Solutions, we create a customized treatment plan to correct your specific refractive errors with Ortho-K.
Are Ortho-K lenses comfortable to wear?
Ortho-K lenses are designed for comfort and are custom-fitted to each patient’s cornea using advanced mapping technology. While some initial discomfort may occur, most patients quickly adapt to wearing the lenses overnight. Modern Vision Solutions ensures that your Ortho-K lenses are perfectly fitted to maximize comfort and effectiveness.
How often do Ortho-K lenses need to be replaced?
Ortho-K lenses typically need to be replaced every one to two years, depending on wear and care. Regular follow-up appointments at Modern Vision Solutions help ensure that your lenses remain in optimal condition and continue to provide effective myopia control and vision correction.
Can adults use Ortho-K lenses for myopia control?
Yes, adults can use Ortho-K lenses for myopia control, especially those who prefer a non-surgical alternative to LASIK or other corrective procedures. Ortho-K is also ideal for adults who have active lifestyles and want to avoid wearing glasses or contact lenses during the day. At Modern Vision Solutions, we tailor Ortho-K treatments to meet the specific needs of adult patients.
What should I do if my vision is not clear after wearing Ortho-K lenses?
If your vision is not clear after wearing Ortho-K lenses, it could be due to improper lens fitting, lens movement during sleep, or lens damage. It’s important to contact Modern Vision Solutions immediately for an evaluation. We will assess the fit and condition of your lenses and make any necessary adjustments to restore clear vision.
How do I care for Ortho-K lenses?
Proper care of Ortho-K lenses involves cleaning and disinfecting them daily using the solutions recommended by your eye care provider. It’s crucial to follow the cleaning regimen and storage instructions to maintain lens hygiene and effectiveness. At Modern Vision Solutions, we provide detailed instructions and support to ensure you care for your lenses properly.
Can Ortho-K lenses be worn with other vision correction methods?
Ortho-K lenses are typically used as a standalone treatment for myopia control and vision correction. However, if additional vision correction is needed, such as reading glasses for presbyopia, your eye care provider at Modern Vision Solutions can help you explore suitable options to complement your Ortho-K treatment.
What kind of eye examination is needed before starting Ortho-K therapy?
Before starting Ortho-K therapy, a comprehensive eye examination, including refraction and corneal topography, is necessary. This helps your optometrist or ophthalmologist assess whether Ortho-K is suitable for you and plan the most effective treatment. Modern Vision Solutions combines advanced optometry practices with the latest research in ophthalmology to ensure optimal efficacy and safety.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6013843/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28038841/
Dr. Megan Anderson is the lead optometrist at Modern Vision Solutions in Omaha, NE. She completed her Residency in Refractive Surgery and Primary Care and holds a Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Missouri – St. Louis College of Optometry St. Louis, MO. She is a member of the American Optometric Association, American Academy of Optometry, and the Nebraska Optometric Association. Dr. Anderson has had experience in multiple refractive surgery and optometry practices. She has served as a teaching assistant in Clinical Optometry I, II, & III courses. Our patients love her incredible empathy.
