Orthokeratology | No More Glasses - Mezmereyes Optometrist

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ORTHOKERATOLOGYNO GLASSES, NO DAYTIME CONTACTS, NO SURGERY

What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology (OrthoK) is a non surgical technique of gently reshaping the front of the eye (cornea) by using specialty customised contact lenses worn overnight.The lenses are removed in the morning, resulting in clear vision throughout the day without having to wear glasses or contact lenses.OrthoK has also been proven to slow down the progression of myopia, which is a huge concern for anyone who has found their prescription to constantly increase each year.OrthoK has been safely practiced for over 50 years and is approved by the FDA.

Is it safe?

First, your eyes will be examined to ensure suitability. Once that has been determined, you will go through a fitting process. The OrthoK lenses can then be used safely for up to 2 years before they require replacement. OrthoK lenses are approved by the Australia Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the United States of America Food and Drug Administration (FDA).All contact lens wear carries a small risk of infection. However the risks can be minimised by following the correct hygiene and disinfecting instructions, and attending regular visits. Although the risk of infection may be extremely low, they are certainly treatable.

Who is Suitable?

Anyone with a myopic (short sighted) prescription of -5.00 DS or less and astigmatism of -2.00 DC or less will have the most chance of success. Any prescriptions over the above specified amount may still be suitable and such patients are most welcome to book a consultation with one of our friendly optometrists to discuss further.Anyone whose myopia has not stabilised and continues to increase. The higher the myopia, the more at risk of sight threatening conditions may occur, such as retinal detachments and glaucoma. It is then ideal to prevent the myopia from increasing as much as possible.Both adults and children from 7 years and up are suitable. The most common ages are pre-teens or teenagers, as during those years is when the myopia often increases the most rapidly. Studies have shown that the younger the child is when they first exhibit myopia, the more likely they will progress to high levels of myopia. Subsequently, the earlier OrthoK is used, the better the results will be.Anyone who wants the freedom of clear vision without the use of any spectacles or contact lenses during the day. There is no irritation or dryness or any problems that people who are normally sensitive to daytime contact lenses may feel. The eyes will feel clear naturally. It is perfect for sports, swimming and anyone who is active, or has a job in a dusty environment and find glasses or regular contact lenses to be unsuitable in those circumstances.

OrthoK Vs LASIK

LASIK is usually not suitable unless a person’s prescription has remained stable for a minimum of 2 years. OrthoK is in fact one of the most successful techniques in stabilising the myopia and prevent it from increasing.LASIK can not be performed on children. OrthoK is safe for children from 7 years and over, and in fact, extremely ideal during the teenage years when the myopia is most likely to increase.LASIK effectively works by thinning the cornea. Some candidates have been found unsuitable for LASIK as their cornea was not thick enough. OrthoK can be successful regardless of the corneal thickness. It simply reshapes the cornea gently without altering the thickness or causing any tissue loss or cell death.

Is it Painful?

There may be some discomfort the first few times wearing the OrthoK lenses, but since they are worn overnight, there is no awareness while sleeping. Most patients report that they do not feel any discomfort after 1-2 weeks.