5 Interesting Things You Should Know About Ortho-K Lenses
If you’re searching for an optometrist near you for a reversible, non-surgical method to correct nearsighted vision for you or a family member, the Ortho-K lens from Dr. Allyson Tang in Vaughan is one of the most effective methods to do exactly that. When you visit us for an Ortho-K lens consultation in Vaughan, ON, Dr. Tang can answer your questions about this treatment protocol. In the meantime, however, here are some interesting facts to help you become more informed about Ortho-K treatment and how it can slow down progressive myopia in patients.
Interesting Things To Know About Ortho-K Lenses
Here are 5 interesting facts about Ortho-K Lenses:
1. Treatment is Revolutionary but Not New
Many of you may think that myopia control with contact lenses is a revolutionary treatment. Surprisingly, orthokeratology (shortened to Ortho-K for ease) has helped patients slow myopia progression since its initial scientific research in the 1940s. After eye doctors realized that contact lenses could reshape a patient’s eye, further research was devoted to the technology. With the advancements made in computer technology in the 1990s, doctors could use computerized corneal topography software to map the eye’s surface. This advancement allowed for additional improvements in hard contact lenses to make them oxygen-permeable.
2. Ortho-K Lenses are Safe to Wear
With the additional improvements made to make Ortho-K lenses oxygen-permeable, patients benefited in two ways. First, the lenses were more comfortable to wear. Health Canada and the FDA both approved the safety of corneal reshaping with overnight contact lenses. Patients can have peace of mind knowing that the treatment protocol was safe when the lenses were cleaned and disinfected as instructed by your eye care professional. When you visit our optometrist in Vaughan, ON, for your Ortho-K treatment, you’ll receive personalized instruction on the safe handling and cleaning of your lenses. We take pride in patient education so they can enjoy the benefits of clear vision.
3. Ortho-K Lenses Gently Reshape Your Cornea While Sleeping
The science behind orthokeratology is simple. The gas permeable materials used in manufacturing lenses allow oxygen to reach the eye’s surface while a patient sleeps. The corneal reshaping is made by gentle and painless hydraulic force, which improves myopia even after one night’s wear. Every patient will experience different results, but our optometrist near you can modify your lenses to achieve maximum benefit.
4. The Benefits of Ortho-K Lenses Can Last for Several Days
As mentioned, many patients will experience an improvement in their vision after one night’s wear of Ortho-K lenses. This improvement in vision can last upwards of 24 hours and often into 48 hours. Ortho-K lenses are meant to be worn overnight while sleeping.
5. Ortho-K is Beneficial for Patients of All Ages
Ortho-K lens therapy is ideal for patients of all ages. Still, studies show that it is ideal for children who are not yet candidates for LASIK or refractive surgery. This quality makes them ideal for adults who do not want to undergo eye surgery.
Visit an Eye Clinic Near You
When you visit us for your myopia consultation, we’ll provide you with a treatment plan that makes sense for your goals. Our optometrist focuses on myopia control, treatment, and management, and Dr. Tang’s mission is to deliver correction and treatment for myopia in children and patients of all ages. During your visit, we can discuss a few other options, including soft lens myopia control and eye drop therapy. If your goal is to see clearly without glasses, we will help you explore all treatment protocols. We invite you to make an appointment with our optometrist in Vaughan, ON, to learn more today.