Orthokeratology (also known as Ortho-K) is a type of contact lens that is designed to temporarily reshape the cornea in order to improve vision. The lenses are worn overnight, and they gently apply pressure to the cornea, causing it to flatten slightly. This can correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Ortho-K lenses are made of gas-permeable material, which allows oxygen to pass through to the cornea while the lens is in place. They are usually prescribed for people who are not good candidates for LASIK or other types of refractive surgery, or for those who want to avoid wearing glasses or contacts during the day.
Ortho-K is not a permanent solution for vision correction, and the effects typically wear off after a few days of not wearing the lenses. Therefore, the lenses need to be worn every night to maintain the correction. Some people may also experience discomfort or dryness with Ortho-K lenses, and they may not be suitable for everyone. It’s important to consult with an eye doctor to determine if Ortho-K is the right choice for you.
Indication:
Orthokeratology lenses are primarily indicated for the correction of myopia, but some specific indications are listed below:
1. Low to moderate myopia: Ortho-K lenses can correct myopia up to around -9.00 diopters (D) and astigmatism up to around -5.50 Diopters.
2. Children and teenagers: Ortho-K lenses can be a good option for children and teenagers who are not good candidates for LASIK or other types of refractive surgery. They may also help slow down the progression of myopia in children.
3. Active lifestyle: Ortho-K lenses are a good option for people who have active lifestyles or play sports, as they provide clear vision without the need for glasses or traditional contact lenses during the day.
4. Occupational needs: Ortho-K lenses can be beneficial for people who work in dusty or dirty environments, as they are less likely to become dislodged or cause discomfort than traditional contact lenses.
5. Personal preference: Some people may simply prefer the convenience and comfort of Ortho-K lenses over other vision correction methods.
Ortho-K Brand Available in India :
• Paragon CRT (Corneal Refractive Therapy)
• GOV Ortho-K Lens
• Contex Ortho-K Lens
It’s important to note that different brands may have slightly different fitting processes and may not be suitable for everyone. Your eye doctor can help you determine which brand of Ortho-K lenses is the best choice for you based on your individual needs and eye health.
Advantages :
Improved vision without surgery: Ortho-K lenses can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism without the need for surgery. This is a non-invasive alternative to procedures such as LASIK and PRK.
Convenience: With Ortho-K lenses, you can enjoy clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts. This is especially beneficial for people who have active lifestyles, play sports, or work in dusty or dirty environments where traditional contact lenses can be difficult to wear.
Comfort: Ortho-K lenses are worn while you sleep, so you don’t have to worry about discomfort or dryness during the day. They are also made of breathable materials that allow oxygen to reach your eyes.
Safer than traditional contact lenses: Ortho-K lenses are worn for a shorter period of time than traditional contact lenses, which reduces the risk of eye infections and other complications.
Suitable for children: Ortho-K lenses can be a good option for children who have myopia (nearsightedness) because they can help slow down the progression of the condition.
Disadvantages :
Temporary results: Ortho-K lenses provide temporary results, which means that you need to wear them every night to maintain the effects. If you stop wearing the lenses, your vision will return to its original state.
Discomfort: Some people may experience discomfort or dryness with Ortho-K lenses, especially during the adjustment period. This can make it difficult to sleep comfortably while wearing the lenses.
Risk of infection: Like all contact lenses, Ortho-K lenses carry a risk of infection. It’s important to follow proper cleaning and hygiene practices to reduce the risk of complications.
Cost: Ortho-K lenses can be more expensive than traditional contact lenses, and they require regular check-ups to ensure that they are working properly.
Not suitable for everyone: Ortho-K lenses may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain eye conditions or irregular corneas. It’s important to consult with an eye doctor to determine if they are the right choice for you.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lens fitting is a specialized process that requires a thorough examination and assessment of the patient’s eyes to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure.
Here are some of the requirements for Ortho-K lens fitting:
Good eye health: Before fitting Ortho-K lenses, the eye doctor will need to ensure that the patient has healthy eyes with no underlying conditions that could increase the risk of complications.
Suitable corneal shape: Ortho-K lenses work by gently reshaping the cornea while the patient sleeps. As a result, the patient’s cornea must have a certain curvature and shape to be suitable for the procedure.
Realistic expectations: Patients must have realistic expectations for the results of Ortho-K. While the lenses can provide clear vision without glasses or contact lenses during the day, they do not permanently correct vision and must be worn every night to maintain the effects.
Commitment to follow-up visits: Patients must be willing and able to attend regular follow-up visits with their eye doctor to ensure that the lenses are working properly and that their vision and eye health are stable.
Ability to tolerate contact lenses: Patients must be able to tolerate contact lenses and be willing to follow proper hygiene and cleaning practices to reduce the risk of complications.
It’s important to consult with an experienced orthokeratologist to determine if you are a good candidate for Ortho-K lens fitting based on your individual needs and eye health.
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