Who Is a Candidate for Ortho-k Lenses?

The cornea is the clear outer part of the eye that focuses light rays on the eye. For you to be able to see clearly, your cornea must have the correct curve and shape. This helps focus light on the retina as the light rays enter your eye. If your cornea does not have a regular curve, shape, or power to see clearly, your ophthalmologist may recommend ortho-k lenses.

 

During a comprehensive eye exam, your ophthalmologist will check your eye health and determine if ortho-k lenses are a good fit for you.

 

Ortho-k Lenses

Ortho-k lenses are special contact lenses that you wear at night. They work by restructuring your cornea while you sleep so you can enjoy improved vision the following day.

 

Ortho-k lenses are uniquely designed rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contact lenses that change the curve of the cornea to help the eye focus on objects clearly. They do this while allowing oxygen to enter your eye to keep the eye healthy.

 

When you remove your ortho-k lenses after wearing them at night, your cornea stays in a regular shape for a while. During that time, you can see clearly without the need for eyeglasses. However, if you stop using the ortho-k lenses at night, your eyes will revert to their original curve and the vision problem will return.

 

Are Ortho-k Lenses Suitable for You?

There are many reasons why people seek ortho-k to correct their eyesight. These include the following.

 

To Treat Allergies or Dry Eyes

If you cannot wear contact lenses due to dry eye syndrome or allergies, ortho-k lenses can work for you.

 

To Control Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Ortho-k lenses reshape the cornea, changing how light bends when it enters the eye. This helps correct blurry distance vision, hence slowing down myopia.

 

To Treat Astigmatism

Ortho-k lenses are available for people with astigmatism. To treat astigmatism, ophthalmologists recommend the use of toric ortho-k lenses. These lenses have more than two curves that help focus light well on the eye so the brain can process images distinctly.

 

To Correct Hyperopia (Farsightedness) and Presbyopia (Age-Related Farsightedness)

Ortho-k lenses work to produce the desired refractive outcome in patients with hyperopia or presbyopia. They are available for adults of all ages who have any of the conditions highlighted above.

 

Eye doctors also recommend ortho-k lenses for children who have a family history of nearsightedness or are nearsighted. Beyond treating these more technical eye problems, many patients consider ortho-k lenses if:

 

• They actively take part in sports and cannot use eyeglasses or contact lenses when playing
   

• They work in factories or dusty surroundings
   

• They have been disqualified from undergoing refractive surgery
   

• They fear surgery
  
   

Ultimately, the best way to learn if you are a good candidate for ortho-k lenses is to schedule a consultation with your eye doctor.

To find out if you are a candidate for ortho-k lenses, contact Special Eye Care at our office in Camp Springs, Maryland. You can call us at (301) 298-3241 today to book an appointment.