What is Ortho-K?
Ortho-K, short for orthokeratology, uses specially designed rigid lenses with high oxygen permeability. They are worn overnight and temporarily reshape the front surface of the cornea. After the lenses are removed in the morning, most wearers do not need glasses or contact lenses during the day. Results depend on the prescription and the individual.
The effect is temporary. If you stop wearing the lenses, the cornea gradually returns to its original shape and the prescription comes back, so Ortho-K needs to be worn regularly.
Who is it for?
- Short-sighted children and teenagers Ortho-K is one method of myopia control. Studies show it can help slow the progression of myopia, though results vary from person to person.
- Adults who prefer not to wear glasses during the day For example people who play a lot of sport, work where glasses are inconvenient, or find daytime contact lenses drying.
Ortho-K does not suit everyone. The optometrist needs to check the prescription, corneal shape and eye health, and consider hygiene habits and whether regular follow-up visits are possible, before advising.
The fitting process
- Consultation and examination Book the 60-minute "Ortho-K Overnight Orthokeratology Lens Fitting Service" slot. The optometrist learns about the wearer and checks the prescription, corneas and eye health.
- Assessment and explanation The optometrist explains suitability, what to expect, the cost and what to watch for. You and your family decide.
- Lens order and training Lenses are ordered from the examination data, and the wearer learns how to insert, remove and clean them correctly.
- Regular follow-up After starting, follow-up visits as scheduled by the optometrist make sure the lenses fit well and the corneas stay healthy.
Care and risks
As with all contact lenses, poor care increases the risk of eye inflammation and infection, and a serious corneal infection can affect vision. Wearers should:
- Wash hands thoroughly before handling lenses, and clean, disinfect and store them as instructed.
- Never rinse lenses or the lens case with tap water, and replace the case regularly.
- Attend every follow-up visit, even when the eyes feel fine.
- Stop wearing the lenses and seek care promptly if there is redness, pain, light sensitivity, more discharge or blurred vision.
Ortho-K and other myopia control methods
Besides Ortho-K, myopia control for children includes myopia control spectacle lenses and daytime myopia control contact lenses, each suited to different children. See the comparison in myopia control for children.
Ortho-K: frequently asked questions
At what age can a child start Ortho-K?
There is no fixed age. The optometrist assesses the child's prescription, eye condition and hygiene habits, and whether parents can help with lens care and follow-up visits.
Can adults wear Ortho-K lenses?
Yes. Suitability depends on the prescription, corneal condition and eye health, so an examination by the optometrist comes first.
How long before Ortho-K works?
It varies. Daytime vision generally becomes stable after a period of consecutive nightly wear, and the optometrist tracks progress at follow-up visits.
How much do Ortho-K lenses cost?
The cost depends on the lens design, the prescription and the follow-up arrangement. Book a consultation or ask us on WhatsApp.
Does Ortho-K have side effects? Is it safe?
The main risk is eye inflammation or infection caused by poor lens care. Fitting by an optometrist, correct care and regular follow-up reduce the risk but cannot remove it. If there is any discomfort, stop wearing the lenses and seek care straight away.