Published: 18 October 2025 | Updated: 29 September 2026 | Author: Smart Vision Optometry
Editorial and clinical update — 29 September 2026: The original article/interview body below is retained in its editorial form, including its attributed quotations and narrative structure. Current evidence and clinical guidance are presented separately below and should be relied on where older wording or claims differ.
Why This Matters
Myopia (short‑sightedness) is rising globally, especially among children. It’s not just about needing glasses — high myopia increases risks of eye disease later in life. A proactive approach is now possible: orthokeratology (Ortho‑K) combined with behavioural optometry and vision therapy offers a way to manage and slow the progression of myopia, while improving functional vision. At Smart Vision Optometry, founded by Gary Rodney, we champion this integrated approach.
“Orthokeratology is not a one‑size‑fits‑all solution,” says Gary Rodney (Creator and Founder of Smart Vision Optometry, Master of Optometry, Behavioural Optometrist, Fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control, with 30+ years’ experience). “We begin with a full functional visual assessment, then design a personalised Ortho‑K plan that works in harmony with vision training.”
Jacquie Gattegno (principal senior optometrist at Eyes InDesign Smart Vision Optometry Bondi) adds:
“Children often benefit most because their visual systems are still adaptable. Through vision therapy, we support their eye coordination, depth perception and visual processing — not just sharper sight.”
How Orthokeratology Works
Overnight Corneal Reshaping
Ortho‑K uses specially designed rigid contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea while asleep. When removed in the morning, the cornea temporarily flattens in its central zone, which reduces the refractive error so that the person can see clearly during the day without glasses or contact lenses.
Myopia Control Mechanism
One critical benefit: by modifying the shape of the peripheral retina’s image focus, Ortho‑K can slow axial elongation of the eye — a key factor in progressive myopia. Research supports that children using Ortho‑K may experience 30–60% slower myopia progression compared to conventional correction.
Safety, Monitoring & Adaptation
Safety is paramount. At Smart Vision, we schedule frequent checkups initially (within days, weeks, and then monthly) to check corneal health, fit, and vision response. Adjustments are made over time to maintain comfort and efficacy.
Gary says: “We monitor corneal integrity, ocular surface health, and ensure the lens design is optimised as growth and visual habits change.”
Integrating Vision Therapy & Behavioural Optometry
Why Vision Training Matters
Correcting the refractive error is only part of the solution. Visual skills — such as convergence (how both eyes move inward), accommodation (focusing), eye tracking, and visual processing — are equally important for reading, sports, and everyday life.
Jacquie explains: “For many children, a weak convergence‑accommodation system contributes to strain, blurry reading vision or even learning difficulties. We don’t just give them “20/20” — we work on how they use their eyes.”
Personalised Programs for Long-Term Success
At Smart Vision Optometry, we design bespoke vision therapy plans (in‑office and home‑based) to reinforce the visual system. For some people, enhancement includes:
- Eye teaming and stereopsis exercises
- Focus flexibility and speed drills
- Visual memory, scanning, and processing
- Coaching on visual habits, screen use, posture
These programs aim not only to support Ortho‑K, but also to build stable, high-functioning vision that resists regression.
Real Benefits for Real Lives
Freedom from Glasses During the Day
Kids and adults alike often relish freedom: no spectacles or daytime contacts, better comfort for sports, and clearer peripheral vision. “One of my patients said, ‘I haven’t worn glasses in years and I feel like my eyes breathe’,” says Jacquie.
Slowing Dangerous Myopia Progression
High myopia is linked to serious eye conditions later: retinal detachment, glaucoma, maculopathy. Slowing axial growth early is a meaningful preventive strategy.
Enhancing Visual Performance
Better eye coordination, reduced eye strain and improved visual processing can support learning, reading, sports performance, and general comfort in a screen-heavy world.
Our Approach at Smart Vision Optometry
Comprehensive Functional Vision Assessment
We begin with a deep evaluation: eye health, binocular vision, tracking, posture, ocular history, lifestyle. This helps us decide if a patient is suitable for Ortho‑K plus vision therapy.
Tailored Ortho‑K Prescription & Follow-Up
Designing the ideal lens involves precise measurements and modelling. We support gradual adaptation and frequent monitoring. Gary notes: “We treat Ortho‑K as an evolving plan — periodic reviews let us tweak the prescription and maintain safety and effectiveness.”
Vision Therapy Integration
As part of the same care team, we blend behavioural optometry and vision therapy seamlessly. “We don’t hand off the patient – we coordinate all phases for maximum visual development,” Jacquie emphasises.
Education & Habit Training
Establishing healthy screen habits, proper lighting, blink breaks, and posture all contribute to sustainable outcomes. We coach families holistically.
What to Expect & How to Get Started
At Smart Vision Optometry, we offer comprehensive Smart Vision Skills Assessments, which include full refractive and functional evaluations. From there, we create tailored wellness treatment plans incorporating lifestyle advice, optical solutions, and myopia control treatments.
- Consultation & assessment: Book a full functional vision and Ortho‑K suitability evaluation.
- Trial period: Many clients go through a trial with closely monitored adaptation.
- Ongoing reviews & adjustments: Especially through growth stages, we check fit, corneal health, and visual metrics.
- Vision therapy program: May run alongside or after Ortho‑K, customised per individual.
- Long-term support: Our highly trained and fully accredited Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrists remain involved as your child or adult vision evolves.
To protect your child—or your future self—from the progressing tide of myopia, schedule an assessment today. Book an appointment, or call the Bondi clinic on (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic on (02) 9969 1600.
Current evidence and clinical context
The IMI clinical management report distinguishes individual treatment selection, monitoring and contact-lens risks. It notes that the effect of treating binocular-vision disorders on myopia development was not established. Do not infer from the original interview that adding vision training necessarily slows eye growth further.
The National Eye Institute describes targeted treatment for convergence insufficiency. That is a specific eye-teaming diagnosis, not a general indication for every person with myopia. Ask what each proposed treatment addresses and how its effects and safety will be monitored.
Related Smart Vision reading
What an eye examination can assess · Vision correction and protection for sport
Frequently asked questions
Do Ortho-K and vision therapy have the same purpose?
No. Ortho-K changes corneal shape temporarily. Therapy for an identified eye-coordination problem has a different clinical purpose.
Does adding vision therapy guarantee better myopia control?
No. Ask for evidence specific to the proposed combination and for separate goals and measurements for each treatment.
What should I discuss before starting overnight lenses?
Discuss suitability, infection risk, lens hygiene, warning symptoms, follow-up and alternatives with the prescribing clinician.
