Can Orthokeratology Slow The Progression Of Myopia?

Slowing down Myopia with Orthokeratology

Myopia is a common eye condition where people can see objects up close, but have difficulty seeing objects far away. It is caused by a longer-than-normal eyeball and is becoming more prevalent worldwide. Orthokeratology, also known as ortho-k, is a non-surgical treatment option that has been gaining popularity in recent years. We will explore how ortho-k works, and its effectiveness in slowing the progression of myopia.

What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, or corneal reshaping therapy, involves wearing custom-fitted contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea of the eye. The lenses are designed to temporarily correct vision by flattening the cornea, thereby correcting near-sightedness (myopia) and sometimes astigmatism. 

The effect of ortho-k lenses typically lasts for a day or two, which means that the lenses need to be worn nightly to maintain the corneal reshaping effect. Ortho-k is an alternative to other vision correction options such as glasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgeries such as LASIK.

Investing in ortho-k can be a smart choice for parents concerned about their child's myopia progression. High myopia is associated with a higher risk of serious eye problems such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment, which can lead to permanent vision loss. Children with myopia also face daily struggles with blurry vision, difficulty with schoolwork, and reduced participation in sports and outdoor activities. Ortho-k can help slow down the progression of myopia, which can reduce the risks associated with high myopia and improve your child's quality of life. By investing in ortho-k, parents can ensure their child's eye health is taken care of and help them see a brighter future.

Who is a Good Candidate for Ortho-k?

Not everyone is a good candidate for ortho-k lenses. Candidates must have a stable prescription, healthy eyes, and be able to follow the wearing and cleaning instructions carefully. Children as young as six years old can benefit from ortho-k, but it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with an eye care professional.

Orthokeratology is a promising option for slowing down the progression of myopia. It is a non-surgical, convenient, and effective treatment option for those who are good candidates. If you think ortho-k lenses may be right for your child, call The Myopia Management Center at Eyecare Greengate today to schedule your child’s myopia consultation. 

References:

Walline JJ, et al. (2004). Overnight orthokeratology for myopia: Overnight orthokeratology for myopia: Is corneal refractive therapy a good choice for kids? Eye & Contact Lens, 30(1), 33-39.

Cho P, et al. (2012). Two-year clinical trial of the low-concentration atropine for myopia progression (LAMP) study: Phase 2 report. Ophthalmology,