Orthokeratology for Myopia Control: A Proven Approach to Managing Nearsightedness
Are you or your child struggling with myopia, also known as nearsightedness? Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) might be the solution you’re looking for. This innovative, non-surgical treatment not only corrects your vision while you sleep but also plays a crucial role in controlling the progression of myopia in children and young adults.
What is Myopia?
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close ones are clear. Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing light rays to focus at a point in front of the retina rather than directly on its surface.
How Does Ortho-K Help in Myopia Control?
Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed, gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the surface of your cornea, changing how light is focused in the eye, which not only provides clear vision during the day but also slows down the elongation of the eyeball that characterizes progressive myopia.
The Science Behind Ortho-K for Myopia Control
• Mechanism: Ortho-K temporarily flattens the cornea, altering its curvature to correct myopia. Research suggests that this reshaping also affects the way light is focused on the periphery of the retina, which is believed to be involved in controlling eye growth.
• Effectiveness: Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Ortho-K in myopia control. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal Optometry and Vision Science found that Ortho-K could reduce the progression of myopia in children by up to 43% compared to those not undergoing treatment.
Benefits of Ortho-K for Myopia Control
• Non-Surgical and Reversible: Unlike surgical options, Ortho-K is completely reversible. Stop wearing the lenses, and the cornea will gradually return to its original shape.
• Daytime Freedom: No need for eyeglasses or contact lenses during the day, providing a significant lifestyle advantage, especially for active children and teens.
• Proven Effectiveness: As cited by Optometry and Vision Science, Ortho-K has been proven to effectively slow down the progression of myopia in numerous clinical studies.
Who Should Consider Ortho-K?
Ortho-K is especially beneficial for:
• Children and Teens: Starting Ortho-K early in children who are developing myopia can significantly impact the progression of their vision problem.
• Individuals with Mild to Moderate Myopia: Those who have mild to moderate nearsightedness are ideal candidates for Ortho-K.
• Active Lifestyles: Athletes and those who engage in physical activities benefit from the freedom from glasses and contacts during the day.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Interested in exploring how Ortho-K can help control myopia? Schedule a consultation with our experts today. We’ll provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine if Ortho-K is the right choice for you or your child.