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Orthokeratology (O.K.)
O.K. is non-surgical, reversible, and FDA-approved. It uses a custom-designed contact lens to gently reshape the clear, front part of the eye (the cornea) while you sleep. It is designed for patients with low to moderate amounts of myopia (nearsightedness), and it reduces the dependence upon glasses and contact lenses throughout the day. It can also slow the progression of myopia in children.
Who is the ideal candidate for Orthokeratology?
The best candidates for O.K. are children between the ages of 8 to 12 who have progressive myopia. It is also suitable for adolescents, teenagers, and adults under the age of 40. Your doctor will determine if O.K. is appropriate for you.
Is Orthokeratology safe for children?
O.K. is an excellent option for children because it is scientifically proven to dramatically slow and potentially halt the progression of nearsightedness. This can have a tremendous impact on the long-term health of children’s eyes. Additionally, not wearing glasses and contacts during the day allows children to feel less restrained in the classroom, on the athletic court or on the playground, which boosts confidence in everyday life.
Does my vision insurance cover Orthokeratology?
O.K. is considered elective, and therefore is not usually covered by vision insurance policies. However, most people find that the results of this treatment are well worth the price. Additionally, health savings accounts may help you cover some of the O.K. costs. Financing is also an option.
Is Orthokeratology painful?
O.K. uses a gas permeable (GP) contact lens, which is made of a more rigid material that does not conform to the shape of the eye the way that a soft contact lens does. While GP lenses are certainly less comfortable initially, patients report that they feel equally as comfortable as soft contact lenses once they adapt to them.
What are the potential risks of Orthokeratology?
Wearing contact lenses overnight increases the risk of hypoxia, which is oxygen deprivation that may cause swelling and eventual clouding of the cornea. O.K. can also increase the risk of eye infections such as bacterial keratitis. Fortunately, newer lens materials have dramatically improved oxygen permeability. Proper hygiene, regular lens maintenance, and annual eye exams also significantly reduce the risk of infection.
How long before I see results with Orthokeratology?
Individual results vary, however the majority of patients notice an improvement in vision the first day after removing their O.K. lenses, with vision usually stabilizing after about 1 week. For patients who are more nearsighted, it can take between 2-4 weeks of O.K. wear to achieve full correction.
How many office visits should I expect during my Orthokeratology treatment process?
You can expect a 1 day follow-up the first night after sleeping in your O.K. lenses, as well as a 1 week, 1 month, and a 3 month follow-up visit. Additional follow-ups during the first few weeks of treatment may be necessary in order to achieve the most optimal fit, comfort, and vision. After the initial 12 months, we recommend following up on a yearly basis.
Can any eye doctor perform Orthokeratology?
Only licensed ophthalmologists and optometrists who have pursued additional orthokeratology certification and training are qualified to fit O.K. At Keil Lasik, your doctor is certified to fit various brands of O.K. lenses, and utilizes advanced corneal mapping technology to ensure success throughout the fitting process.
I’ve never worn contact lenses before, am I still a good candidate for Orthokeratology?
Prior experience handling contact lenses is not required in order to be successful with O.K. Our staff will review proper contact lens hygiene habits, as well as instruct you to safely insert and remove your O.K. lenses prior to sending you home with them.
Step 1: Consultation
Meet with our experienced team and see what treatment option is right for you. Consultations last about an hour and a half. Your eyes will be dilated. Bring your sunglasses! Contacts must be removed 3 full days before your appointment.
Step 2: Treatment
Our friendly staff and experienced doctors help you through your treatment and get you seeing more clearly in no time, less than 15 minutes to be exact. Expect to be in our office for 1.5 hours on treatment day. You will need a driver.
Step 3: Enjoy Freedom!
Follow-up schedules vary depending on the procedure type, but in general, you can expect to be seen in-office 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after your treatment. Return to your optometrist for annual exams after all follow-up visits.
Step 4. Lifetime Care
All our services come with a lifetime guarantee. In the rare occurrence that you need an adjustment, we provide free vision enhancements for life.*
