Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, is a revolutionary treatment offering numerous eye health benefits. This non-surgical procedure involves wearing custom contact lenses designed to the exact shape of the patient's eye overnight to reshape the cornea and correct vision problems. Ortho-K lets you see clearly during the day without wearing glasses or contact lenses.
Ortho-K gently reshapes the eye's front surface while you sleep. The specially designed lenses apply gentle pressure to the cornea, gradually flattening it in specific areas. This reshaping process corrects refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and mild astigmatism. By morning, when the lenses are removed, the cornea retains its new shape, allowing for clear vision throughout the day without needing glasses or contact lenses.
The success and statistics of Ortho-K speak for themselves. Numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in providing long-term vision correction. According to research published in the Journal of Optometry, Ortho-K has been found to reduce myopia progression in children by an average of 50%. This is particularly significant, considering that myopia is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide.
Furthermore, studies have shown that Ortho-K can also slow down or halt the progression of keratoconus, a progressive eye condition characterized by thinning and bulging of the cornea. A study published in Cornea found that Ortho-K effectively improved visual acuity and prevented further deterioration of keratoconus in 94% of participants.
The FDA approval of Ortho-K further solidifies its credibility as a safe and effective treatment option. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration rigorously evaluates medical devices to ensure their safety and efficacy before approval. The fact that Ortho-K has received FDA approval speaks volumes about its reliability and trustworthiness.
The benefits of Ortho-K for eye health are genuinely remarkable. Not only does it provide clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses during the day, but it also offers long-term vision correction. It could slow down the progression of certain eye conditions. Moreover, Ortho-K is a safe and FDA-approved treatment option that promotes educational awareness about eye health.
Safety considerations of Ortho-K are paramount. Ortho-K has been proven to be a safe method for vision correction when used under the guidance of an experienced eye care professional. The lenses used in Ortho-K are made from highly breathable materials that allow oxygen to reach the cornea, reducing the risk of complications such as corneal infections or inflammation.
It is crucial for patients considering Ortho-K to undergo a comprehensive eye examination before starting the treatment. This examination helps identify any underlying eye conditions that may affect the suitability of Ortho- K. Additionally, regular follow-up visits with an optometrist are necessary to monitor the progress and ensure the continued safety of the treatment.
Ortho-K is particularly beneficial for individuals who engage in sports or other physical activities where wearing glasses or contact lenses can be cumbersome or pose a risk. Since no lenses are worn during waking hours with Ortho-K, there is no worry about them falling out or getting damaged during physical activities.
Schedule your eye exam with our doctors and they ask if Ortho-K is right for you. Visit www.myeye2eye.com where we have two locations in Alexandria, VA to better serve your eyecare and eyewear needs.