The Magic of Orthokeratology
It’s called Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, and it involves using contact lenses. But instead of wearing contacts by day, explains Gary Rodney, founder of Smart Vision Optometry in Sydney and Fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (FIAOMC), they are worn while you sleep.
Orthokeratology is designed to guide the eyeball into its optimal shape for focus, potentially reducing myopia or astigmatism. There’s even conclusive evidence that Orthokeratology can slow the progression of myopia in children, a finding that Rodney finds particularly satisfying. “The ability to help manage and potentially slow myopia progression in children is incredibly rewarding,” he says.
Jacquie Gattegno, principal senior optometrist at Eyes InDesign Smart Vision Optometry Bondi, adds, “Orthokeratology provides a non-invasive, effective way to correct vision without the need for daytime glasses or contact lenses, making it an appealing option for many.”
The Process of Orthokeratology
It all begins with an advanced eye examination by an Smart Vision behavioural optometrist who has studied the field of orthokeratology. If an initial examination indicates that Ortho-K can help, the Smart Vision optometrist will map the cornea’s surface using a corneal topographer. It’s contact-free, much like any other eye test, and the information it gathers will be used to make customised contact lenses.
“Usually, your lenses will flatten the cornea somewhat,” says Rodney. “The lenses are hard, but not uncomfortable, especially once you’ve grown accustomed to wearing them.” In the morning, after you remove your contact lenses, the cornea remains flattened for a while, allowing for clearer focus without glasses. “In most instances, it takes about two weeks to achieve the full shaping process for which each set of lenses is designed,” Rodney explains. In a typical scenario, the person will go through three sets of lenses since shaping the cornea is a gradual process.
Having reached the desired shape, the cornea can’t be left to itself. It’s best for most people to keep wearing retainer lenses every night, or at least most nights, in order to enjoy being able to see without glasses by day.
The Benefits of Sleeping with Contact Lenses
Rodney explains that kids and people with active lifestyles often benefit from Ortho-K. “For example, you shouldn’t surf with contacts as it can increase the risk of infection, and unless you’re going to get prescription surfing goggles, you can’t do it with glasses either,” he says. “Kids, on the other hand, like rough and tumble, and glasses or contacts are less practical by day.”
Gattegno adds, “Orthokeratology is particularly beneficial for children and active individuals. It eliminates the need for daytime corrective lenses, which can be a hassle or even a hazard during sports and other activities.”
And, of course, some people don’t want to wear glasses, and either don’t want to, or can’t, wear contacts by day. From a practical perspective, using Ortho-K lenses has a similar effect to glasses or contact lenses. They correct vision but don’t have a permanent effect if one stops wearing them. However, it is used at night, and there are a lot of personal and practical reasons why people choose this option instead of opting for glasses, regular contacts, or surgery to correct their vision.
Slowing the Progression of Myopia
Most tantalising of all is the possibility that Orthokeratology, together with our custom designed lenses, can slow the progression of myopia, especially in children. “There’s a rise in myopia,” says Rodney, “and Smart Vision Optometry is particularly interested in myopia control, particularly in children. Helping them to see better for longer would be the ultimate goal Smart Vision would like to achieve.”
Gattegno supports this, noting, “Slowing the progression of myopia in children is crucial. With the increasing prevalence of myopia, finding effective management strategies is more important than ever.”
Who Can Benefit from Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology is suitable for a wide range of people. It’s an excellent option for those who:
- Engage in sports or activities where glasses or daytime contact lenses are impractical.
- Experience discomfort or inconvenience with traditional contact lenses.
- Want to avoid the risks and recovery time associated with surgical procedures.
“Orthokeratology offers a flexible and reversible non-invasive to traditional vision correction methods,” says Gattegno. “It’s particularly appealing for children and teenagers who are still growing.”
The Safety and Efficacy of Orthokeratology
Strange as the idea of wearing contact lenses by night may sound, Ortho-K has been around for a while and has been stringently tested. The notoriously careful FDA in the United States found that 65 percent of patients selected for the treatment achieved 20/20 vision, with over 90 percent achieving a rating of 20/40 or better. 20/40 is considered as being “slightly” nearsighted – a person who may or may not decide to wear glasses.
“The safety and efficacy of Orthokeratology are well-documented,” Rodney asserts. “Patients can achieve significant improvements in vision without the need for daytime lenses.”
Gattegno adds, “The non-invasive nature of Ortho-K, combined with its effectiveness, makes it a compelling option for many of our patients.”
Take the Next Step with Smart Vision Optometry
For more information on Orthokeratology and Smart Vision’s approach to myopia management, visit the Smart Vision website. For specific information about myopia treatment and prevention, visit Myopia Prevention: Solutions, Control And Treatment In Sydney, and for detailed information about Orthokeratology, visit Orthokeratology In Sydney: The Non-Surgical Alternative.
Book an online appointment for a comprehensive vision skills assessment, or call the Bondi clinic on (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic on (02) 9969 1600.By understanding and exploring Orthokeratology, you can discover a convenient and effective way to improve vision and manage myopia. Contact Smart Vision Optometry today to find out if Orthokeratology is right for you or your child, and take the first step towards clearer, healthier vision.
