Orthokeratology can correct vision problems while you sleep. At M-Eye Vision, in Katy, TX, our optometrist offers a range of services, including orthokeratology, contacts, and glasses.
What is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K, uses specialized contact lenses to correct vision problems. The lenses are typically worn while you sleep. Over time, they correct the cornea and associated vision problems.
Who Can Benefit from Ortho-K?
Ortho-K is usually used to treat myopia, also known as nearsightedness. Its particularly helpful for children.
Lasik surgery can permanently treat myopia. However, Lasik surgery can't be performed on children because their eyes aren't fully developed.
Adults can also benefit from Ortho-K as an alternative to traditional contacts, glasses, or Lasik surgery.
How Does Orthokeratology Work?
Ortho-K works by reshaping your cornea. The cornea is a clear lens in the front portion of the eye. The cornea focuses light on the retina. This is how your eyes focus. When the cornea is irregularly shaped, it interferes with the eyes ability to focus.
The tissue of the cornea is flexible. Ortho-K lenses sit on the cornea, flattening it over the course of the night. This allows the light to be bent properly. You can remove the lenses in the morning. The cornea will remain flattened throughout the day.
What Is the Ortho-K Treatment Process?
Ortho-K treatment usually begins with an eye exam. If our optometrist determines this treatment will be effective for you, she will use a machine to help measure your cornea. This process is safe for both adult and pediatric patients. The device doesn't touch the eye.
Once this is completed, special lenses are created to meet the needs of your eyes. They will match your eye, flattening the areas that need flattening.
The lenses themselves are firm enough to reshape the cornea, while still allowing you to see through the lens.
Is Ortho-K Treatment Permanent?
To maintain improved vision, you'll need to keep wearing Ortho-K. If you stop wearing them, eventually your eyes will revert to their pre-treatment state.
However, you can maintain the vision correction as long as you continue to wear the lenses. This makes it important to wear your lenses every night.
Get Orthokeratology and an Eye Exam at M-Eye Vision
If you or your child has myopia or another eye condition in Katy, TX, M-Eye Vision has the services you need. Don't live with bad vision. Call us today at (281) 394-7886 to make an appointment for yourself or for a pediatric patient.