Who is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?

If you've been looking for a non-surgical solution to correct your vision and reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses, Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) could be the answer. At Ascent Eye Care and Eyewear Gallery, we are excited to offer this innovative treatment to help you achieve clearer vision without the hassle of daytime lenses.
 

What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, is a vision correction method that involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye, while you sleep. By morning, you can remove the lenses and enjoy clear vision throughout the day—no glasses or daytime contacts required.
 

The Ortho-K lenses work by temporarily flattening the cornea, which corrects refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. As a result, light entering the eye is properly focused onto the retina, allowing you to see clearly. This effect typically lasts for about 24 to 48 hours, so consistent overnight wear is necessary to maintain optimal vision.
 

Who is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?

Ortho-K is an excellent option for many people, but it’s not suitable for everyone. Here are some characteristics of good candidates:
 

• People with Myopia (Nearsightedness): Ortho-K is most effective for individuals with mild to moderate myopia. It is also a great option for slowing the progression of myopia in children.
   

• Children and Adolescents: Ortho-K is highly beneficial for children whose nearsightedness is progressing. By reshaping the cornea, Ortho-K helps slow down the elongation of the eye, which can reduce the worsening of myopia over time.
   

• Active Individuals: Athletes and people who lead active lifestyles often find Ortho-K appealing because it eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses during the day, allowing for more freedom and convenience.
   

• Individuals Unsuitable for LASIK: For people who are not good candidates for laser vision correction surgery due to thin corneas, dry eyes, or other factors, Ortho-K provides a safe, non-invasive alternative.
   

• Those Seeking a Non-Surgical Option: If you prefer to avoid surgical interventions like LASIK, Ortho-K offers a temporary but effective solution for clearer vision.
   

The Benefits of Ortho-K

• Clear Vision Without Glasses or Daytime Contacts: One of the biggest advantages is the ability to enjoy clear vision throughout the day without needing glasses or contact lenses. This can be especially beneficial for those with active lifestyles.
   

• Non-Surgical and Reversible: Unlike LASIK, which permanently alters the shape of the cornea, Ortho-K is non-invasive and reversible. If you stop wearing the lenses, your cornea will return to its original shape, and your vision will revert to its previous state.
   

• Helps Control Myopia Progression: Studies have shown that Ortho-K can slow the progression of myopia in children, making it an excellent choice for parents concerned about their child’s worsening vision.
   

• Comfortable Nighttime Wear: Since the lenses are worn only at night while you sleep, there is no need to worry about discomfort or dryness during daytime activities.
   

Is Ortho-K Right for You?

At Ascent Eye Care and Eyewear Gallery, we offer comprehensive eye exams to determine if Ortho-K is the right option for you or your child. If you're looking for a non-surgical way to correct vision or slow myopia progression, schedule an appointment with us to learn more about how Ortho-K can fit into your lifestyle.
 

Contact Ascent Eye Care and Eyewear Gallery to discover if Ortho-K is the right solution for you. Visit our office in Franklin, Tennessee, or call (615) 560-8245 to book an appointment today.