Ortho-K is a non-surgical method of reshaping the cornea to correct refractive errors, most commonly myopia (near-sightedness). The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped structure covering the front part of the eye. As the outermost layer of the eye, the cornea plays a crucial role in focusing light and aiding vision. It is often called the “window of the eye.”
Ortho-K involves the use of specially designed rigid gas permeable contact lenses that are worn overnight while sleeping. The lenses put gentle pressure on the cornea, causing a change in shape that provides clear vision during waking hours.
Ortho-K will reduce the amount of myopia progression a patient would have had by about 50% when worn as prescribed and properly managed by your eye care provider. While there are many studies showing Ortho-K lens effectiveness in managing myopia progression, they are not currently FDA approved for such.
The Process of Fitting Ortho-K Lenses:
Fitting Ortho-K lenses involves a series of carefully planned steps to ensure the lenses are customized for the individual's eyes and that the corneal reshaping process is effective. Here's a detailed overview of the fitting process:
- Initial Comprehensive Eye Exam: The process begins with a thorough eye examination. This includes assessing the patient's overall eye health, determining the refractive error (glasses prescription), and checking for any pre-existing conditions that may impact the suitability of Ortho-K lenses. This information is then used in the manufacturing process to custom-make lenses that will reshape the cornea appropriately.
- Corneal Mapping: Advanced corneal mapping techniques, such as corneal topography or profilometry, may be used to create a detailed 3D map of the cornea. This map guides the design and customization of the Ortho-K lenses based on the specific contours of the patient's cornea. This map can either be obtained at the comprehensive exam, or a separate appointment.
- Ordering the Lenses: Once the prescription and corneal mapping data are obtained, the lenses are ordered. The lenses are designed to apply precise pressure to specific corneal zones, facilitating the desired reshaping. They typically take roughly 1-2 weeks to be designed and shipped to the office. Once they have arrived, the initial fitting and training appointment can be scheduled.
- Initial Fitting and Insertion/Removal Training: At this appointment, one of our optometrists will typically assist by putting the lenses on the patient initially to assess how well the lenses fit and ensure the best results possible. One of our technicians will then provide the patient and guardian(s) training on how to insert, remove, and care for the lenses. This training is essential for the patient to independently manage their lenses at home.
- First Night Wear and Follow-Up Appointment: The patient wears the Ortho-K lenses overnight, following the prescribed schedule. The next morning, they return to the office (wearing their lenses into the office) for their first follow-up appointment. During this appointment, we will assess the fit of the lenses and check the patient's vision. Adjustments may be made at this stage.
- Subsequent Follow-Up Appointments: The patient attends regular follow-up appointments to monitor the progress of corneal reshaping and assess the effectiveness of the treatment. During these visits, unaided vision is measured (assessing how clearly the patient can see without glasses or contact lens correction), and the corneal health is assessed. The patient will be instructed to bring their stored lenses with them to these follow ups, and the patient may put the lenses on for further assessment during the appointment.
- Modification of Lenses (if needed): If there is any residual prescription or if adjustments are needed based on the patient's vision and corneal health, the optometrist may modify the lenses. This process continues until the desired outcome is achieved.
- Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance: After achieving the desired level of corneal reshaping and myopia control, the patient continues with periodic follow-up appointments to monitor their eye health, assess the stability of the corneal reshaping, and address any changes in prescription or fit.
Throughout the entire process, effective communication between the patient and our office is crucial. The patient's feedback on comfort, vision, and any concerns should be addressed at each follow-up appointment to ensure a positive and successful Ortho-K lens-wearing experience.
Maintenance and Compliance: Patients are instructed to follow a regular wearing schedule, typically wearing the lenses overnight, and to adhere to proper lens care and maintenance practices. Ortho-K lenses are a reversible and non-invasive alternative to surgery for myopia management. Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor corneal health, ensure the effectiveness of the treatment, and make any adjustments as needed. The success of ortho-k depends on the individual's responsiveness to corneal reshaping and their commitment to the prescribed wearing schedule.
Adapting to Ortho-K lenses can vary from person to person, but many individuals find these lenses comfortable and effective after an adaptation period. Here's what you can generally expect in terms of comfort when using Ortho-K lenses:
**1. Initial Sensations: When you first start wearing Ortho-K lenses, you may be aware of their presence on your eyes. It’s common to feel an awareness or "foreign body" sensation initially.
**2. Comfort Improves Over Time: The comfort of Ortho-K lenses often improves over the first few days or weeks as your eyes adjust to the lenses. Many users report that after the initial adaptation period, they no longer feel the lenses in their eyes.
**3. Consistent Wear is Key: Consistent wear is crucial for successful adaptation. Following the prescribed wearing schedule provided by our doctors helps your eyes adjust to the lenses and ensures the effectiveness of corneal reshaping.
If you experience persistent discomfort or have concerns about the fit of the lenses, it's crucial to communicate with our office promptly. We can make adjustments, address any issues, and ensure your eyes remain healthy.
Remember, everyone's experience with Ortho-K is unique. If you have any questions or concerns during the adaptation period, don't hesitate to reach out to our office for guidance and support. With proper care and adherence to the prescribed wearing schedule, many individuals find Ortho-K lenses to be a comfortable and effective option for myopia management.
Please note that on the first Friday of every month, our office will open at 10 AM to allow time for staff training.