Orthokeratology

Many people who rely on glasses or contact lenses to see correctly find it to be a hassle. Some people choose LASIK surgery to see correctly. However, not everyone is a good candidate for the procedure. Fortunately, there is another procedure called orthokeratology. If you want to correct your vision without glasses or contacts, there are a few things that you should know about the procedure.

What Is Orthokeratology?

This treatment plan requires you to wear a specially designed gas permeable contact lens that you would wear overnight. While you are sleeping the lens gently reshapes the front of your cornea so that you can see clearly when you wake up in the morning and take the lenses out.

What Are the Two Most Common Reasons People Use This Treatment?

These types of lenses are prescribed for two reasons.

To correct nearsightedness. On some cases, it can be used to treat astigmatism and farsightedness. It can be used to treat presbyopia, but it isn't typical.

To slow the progression of childhood myopia.

How Long Do the Effects Of Orthokeratology Last?

Your eye doctor will suggest that you wear the lenses every night. If you forget to put them in, you may still be able to see correctly for a day or two. Some people feel the effects longer than others.

Who Is a Good Candidate For Orthokeratology?

Most people with some degree of myopia are good candidates for this procedure. Patients with mild astigmatism may also qualify.

The effects of this treatment are temporary. You can stop putting the lenses in at night if your myopia returns.

Orthokeratology is also a great option for anyone who is a poor candidate for Lasik.

Finally, people who play sports often find orthokeratology to be very convenient.

How Are These Lenses Fit?

During your fitting, your eye doctor measures the curvature of your cornea. Using an instrument called a corneal topographer, the entire procedure is painless. You might need to go through a few lenses before you get one that fits best and works for you.  

If you are tired of wearing glasses or contacts during the day and LASIK isn't right for you, consider orthokeratology. If you want to give this treatment a try, make an appointment with Insight Eyecare & Eyewear in Chandler to find out if orthokeratology is for you. For more information, give us a call today at (803) 254-6306