Ortho-Keratology

                            (Information taken from: http://www.ortho-k.net/)

Ortho-Keratology, also known as Ortho-K is a non-surgical process which reshapes (flattens) the cornea of the eye using contact lenses to reduce refractive errors (nearsightedness and astigmatism). Accelerated Ortho-K uses  reverse geometry contact lenses. Flattening the cornea reduces the focusing power of the eye. Since the amount of  corneal flattening can be accurately controlled, it is possible to bring the eye into correct focus and compensate for the refractive error.. After the contact lens is removed, the cornea retains its flattened shape for part or all of the remainder of the day. A retainer lens must be used each day to maintain the corneal flattening, or the myopia will revert to the pre-treatment level.

Benefits

Ortho-K is not only an excellent alternative to the wearing of spectacles, but it also frees the individual from the distractions caused by perspiration, dust, wind weather and temperature. There are no more blind spots caused by frame or lens edges. It is great to wear "regular" fashion sunglasses, to get up at night or in the morning and see, to go swimming and skiing, to drive in a convertible with the top down, to work in the dust, grass or in the garden, and to be able to see in cases of emergencies. Ortho-K might open new horizons to you. People in occupations that are hindered by the use of glasses or contacts may be good candidates for Ortho-K - pilots, policemen, firemen, etc. Be sure to check with the regulations of your employer prior to undergoing Ortho-K.

The Process  

The Ortho-K specialist measures the curvature of your cornea using the corneal topographer. It is like having your picture taken and is painless, taking about five minutes. Some doctors use software to help design the lenses and diagnostic lenses may be placed on your eyes to help determine the proper lens. Contact lenses for Ortho-K have a reverse geometry design.  The central portion of the contact lens fits closer to the eye than a standard contact lens - exerting a gentle pressure. It doesn't touch the cornea as there is a tear layer protecting the eye.The reverse geometry part of the lens surrounds the central visual zone and is further away from the cornea than standard lenses allowing room for the shift of epithelium.

Why Haven't I Heard About Ortho-K?

The practice of Ortho-K requires a great deal of technical skill, specialized equipment and considerably more office time and is therefore more costly to the patient. Many practitioners don't consider myopia control worth the time and effort. If an optometrist is not trained in Ortho-K it will not be an option or suggestion during an eye exam. It is easier to offer contact lenses, glasses, or refractive surgery to correct vision. And Ortho-K doesn't produce a permanent result requiring retainer lenses to maintain the improvement. That isn't bad. Because it isn't permanent, it is reversible.