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What is Ortho-K?

This revolutionary, non-surgical procedure improves vision by gently reshaping the outer layer of your eye while you sleep. This is done by specially designed gas permeable rigid contact lenses that is worn overnight. The lens is removed upon awakening and the day is spent without any visual aids. Ortho-K is a safe and effective treatment that can correct moderate myopia (near-sightedness), low hyperopia (farsightedness) and low astigmatism. It is a great alternative to refractive surgery, (such as LASIK). It is completely reversible, unlike any refractive surgery. The majority of nearsighted people will benefit from Ortho-K from children as young as seven years old to adults. It can be performed on people of any age, as long as their eyes are healthy.

Why consider Ortho-K?

The main purpose of Ortho K is to be free of both contact lenses and spectacles during the day. The freedom from any artificial aid appeals to spectacle and contact lens wearers and is ideal for sportsmen, those who work in dusty or dirty environments or people who find spectacles and conventional lenses just a plain nuisance. In cases of young children, no need to worry about spectacles being broken or lost during school time. Those who need to have a certain degree of uncorrected vision to satisfy their employers or a licensing body (e.g. pilots, security, and police) can also be helped by Ortho-K. Several studies have concluded that Ortho-K reduces the progression of myopia (near sightedness). A great alternative for those who are too young to consider refractive surgery (e.g. LASIK), or those whose prescriptions are continuing to change.

Ortho-K Procedure

Ortho-K is safe for all ages, as long as your eyes are healthy. The procedure of Ortho K firstly involves a comprehensive eye examination to determine the prescription and health of your eyes. Then it is necessary to map the front surface of the eye (cornea) with a topographer. A rigid lens will then be designed according to exact specifications for your eye. Once we are happy with the fit of these lenses, you will start wearing these lenses overnight. The fit of the lenses and health of the eyes will be monitored over a period of time and regular follow-up visits. You will be sleeping in the lens for a minimum of six hours per night, having a gentle moulding effect on the cornea. Full correction will be achieved in 2-4 weeks. Keep in mind Ortho-k is not suitable for everyone, so it is best to consult with your optometrist if you are interested in this procedure.