Are you tired of wearing glasses or contact lenses every day? Have you ever heard of Orthokeratology, also known as ortho-k? Ortho-k is gaining popularity as a viable alternative to traditional eyeglasses, contact lenses, and laser surgery.
Contact us today at Advanced Eyecare Optometric Center in Irvine to schedule a consultation today!
What is Ortho-K?
Ortho-k is a non-surgical method of correcting nearsightedness by using specialized contact lenses. Ortho-k lenses are designed to reshape the cornea while you sleep, thereby correcting vision problems such as nearsightedness.
They are gas-permeable lenses made of rigid, durable materials that provide a custom fit for each patient. The lenses work by gently flattening the cornea, which is the eye's front surface. By doing so, light can enter the eye and focus correctly on the retina, resulting in clear vision.
Ortho-K is Research Backed
Several studies have shown that ortho-k is an effective treatment for reducing nearsightedness. In one study, 25 children aged 8 to 12 years with mild to moderate nearsightedness were fitted with ortho-k lenses. After six months of wearing the lenses, the children's nearsightedness improved by an average of 1.74 diopters. In another study, 54 adults with mild to moderate nearsightedness wore ortho-k lenses for two weeks. At the end of the study, their nearsightedness had improved by an average of 1.13 diopters.
Slowing Down Myopia
One of the main benefits of ortho-k is that it can slow down the progression of nearsightedness. Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is a common eye condition that causes distant objects to appear blurry. It often develops during childhood and can worsen as a person gets older. However, research has shown that ortho-k can slow myopia progression in children. In one study, 44 children with myopia wore ortho-k lenses for two years. At the end of the study, the children's myopia had progressed by an average of 0.13 diopters per year, compared to 0.50 diopters per year in a control group.
Call us today at Advanced Eyecare Optometric Center in Irvine and see if ortho-k is right for you!