An increasing number of Sydney families are exploring Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, as a non-surgical option for vision correction and myopia management.
With childhood short-sightedness continuing to rise across Australia, optometrists are reporting strong interest in treatments that offer both daytime freedom from glasses and strategies to slow eye growth in younger patients.
Orthokeratology involves the use of specially designed rigid contact lenses worn overnight. By morning, wearers remove the lenses and experience clear vision throughout the day without the need for spectacles or daytime contact lenses.
According to Gary Rodney, creator and founder of Smart Vision Optometry, a Master of Optometry, Behavioural Optometrist and Fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (FIAOMC) with more than 30 years of experience, the treatment represents a significant advancement in preventative eye care.
“Orthokeratology works by gently reshaping the corneal epithelium during sleep,” Rodney said. “It temporarily adjusts how light focuses on the retina, providing clear daytime vision while also influencing peripheral retinal defocus — a key factor in slowing myopia progression.”
A Response to Rising Myopia Rates
Short-sightedness is no longer viewed as a simple refractive inconvenience. Health professionals increasingly recognise that higher levels of myopia are associated with greater lifetime risks of retinal detachment, glaucoma and myopic macular degeneration.
Sydney’s urban lifestyle, with heavy educational demands and extensive screen use, is often cited as a contributing factor to earlier onset and faster progression in children.
Rodney said early intervention can have a measurable long-term impact.
“If we can slow axial elongation during childhood, we reduce cumulative lifetime risk. Even modest reductions in final prescription strength can significantly improve long-term ocular health outcomes.”
More information about Orthokeratology can be found at:
https://smartvisionoptometry.com.au/orthokeratology/
Lifestyle Freedom Drives Family Interest
While the clinical benefits are significant, lifestyle flexibility is another major factor behind the treatment’s popularity.
Jacquie Gattegno, principal senior optometrist at Eyes InDesign Smart Vision Optometry Bondi and an experienced Behavioural Optometrist and Orthokeratologist, says many families initially enquire because of sport and activity considerations.
“For active children, Ortho-K can be transformative,” Gattegno said. “There’s no concern about glasses slipping during sport or contact lenses drying out at the beach. It provides confidence and convenience, particularly for families living in coastal areas like Bondi.”
Parents of swimmers and contact sports participants are often drawn to the idea of lens-free daytime vision.
“Children appreciate not having to think about their eyes during the day,” Gattegno added. “It removes a barrier and allows them to focus fully on school, sport and social activities.”
The Science Behind the Lenses
Orthokeratology lenses use a reverse-geometry design that redistributes epithelial cells across the cornea. The reshaping effect is temporary and fully reversible once lens wear stops.
Rodney explained that advanced diagnostic technology plays a critical role in ensuring safety and precision.
“We use detailed corneal topography to map the eye’s surface at micron-level accuracy,” he said. “That data guides custom lens design and allows us to monitor corneal integrity at every review.”
Studies indicate that Ortho-K can slow myopia progression by approximately 40 to 60 per cent in many children, although individual responses vary.
Rodney emphasised that structured follow-up is essential.
“Regular reviews ensure the cornea remains healthy and that the lenses continue performing optimally,” he said. “Compliance with hygiene protocols is also critical.”
Careful Assessment Before Recommendation
Not every patient is automatically suited to Orthokeratology. Comprehensive evaluation is required before commencing treatment.
Gattegno said assessments include corneal shape analysis, tear film stability, prescription level and lifestyle considerations.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all solution,” she said. “We personalise recommendations based on each child’s visual development, habits and overall eye health.”
In some cases, spectacle-based myopia control lenses or specialised soft contact lenses may be recommended instead.
Further information on broader myopia management strategies is available at:
https://smartvisionoptometry.com.au/myopia-prevention/
Addressing Safety Concerns
As with all contact lens modalities, safety is a common question from parents.
Rodney noted that when prescribed and monitored appropriately, Ortho-K has a strong safety profile.
“The key factors are professional fitting, patient education and adherence to cleaning routines,” he said. “When those elements are in place, complication rates are low.”
Gattegno said parental involvement plays an important role, particularly for younger children.
“We guide families step-by-step through lens handling and hygiene,” she said. “Children often adapt quickly, especially when they understand the daytime benefits.”
A Shift Toward Preventative Eye Care
The growing interest in Orthokeratology reflects a broader shift in optometry — from reactive prescription updates to proactive management of eye growth.
Rodney believes awareness among parents is steadily increasing.
“Families are now asking about long-term strategies, not just stronger glasses,” he said. “That’s a positive change.”
Gattegno added that early discussions can make a meaningful difference.
“The earlier we assess progression risk, the more options we have available,” she said. “It’s about planning for future eye health, not just immediate clarity.”
With myopia rates continuing to rise, Sydney practitioners expect interest in Orthokeratology and myopia control to remain strong in coming years.
If you’d like to learn more about how Ortho-K might benefit your child — or explore our approach to myopia management and custom lens fitting — we’re here to help.Book an appointment, or call the Bondi clinic on (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic on (02) 9969 1600. We are always happy to discuss whether Ortho-K might be a good fit for your family.
