The Incredible Benefits of Ortho-k for Myopia Control

Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is a widespread problem affecting various populations worldwide. The condition continues to grow as people spend more time indoors and do close work, like using their computers and reading. It can develop and lead to severe eye conditions like cataracts or glaucoma. It can also contribute to blindness if left untreated.

Technological and treatment advances have helped with the effective treatment of myopia. Orthokeratology, also called ortho-k, is one treatment that manages myopia safely and effectively. It involves the use of special contact lens lenses uniquely designed to fit the eye shape of each patient. The lenses temporarily reshape the cornea.

Ortho-k lenses work when worn overnight. They exert gentle pressure on your cornea to correct the refractive error. It has helped individuals with myopia, especially children. It slows down myopia progression and reduces the need to wear eyeglasses or contacts during the day.

Controls Myopia Effectively

Ortho-k effectively controls myopia, especially in children. Myopia worsens as a child grows older. Higher myopia levels often increase the risk of eye problems later in life. Studies show that you can slow myopia progression by up to 50 percent through ortho-k lenses.

Ortho-k lenses are unlike traditional treatments such as conventional contacts and eyeglasses. The treatments can only correct refractive errors. In contrast, ortho-k reduces the need for higher prescriptions. They prevent high levels of myopia from developing and reduce the risk of eye problems later in life.

Improves Vision Quality

Individuals who wear ortho-k lenses report experiencing clear vision throughout the day. As the lenses reshape your cornea overnight, they help light focus directly on the retina to eliminate the refractive error. You can go about your activities during the day without needing prescription glasses or contacts.

Ortho-k lenses are ideal for people with active lifestyles. Normally, they find wearing contacts and glasses cumbersome. The lenses help improve their peripheral vision for activities like playing sports and driving.

Noninvasive and Safe

Ortho-k is different from other myopia treatments like LASIK surgery. It does not require reshaping or cutting the cornea invasively. It is safe and noninvasive. Thus, it reduces the risk of complications like corneal scarring or infection. It is safe for adults and children alike.

Ortho-k treatment is temporary. You must wear the lenses overnight to experience clear vision during the day and continue this cycle. A patient can remove them and restore their corneas' original shape. They are convenient if you experience any vision changes or discomfort.

Cost-effective and Convenient

Ortho-k lenses require minimal maintenance and are easy to use. As you only wear them overnight, you do not have to worry about wearing prescription glasses or contact lenses during the day.

They are cost-effective compared to other expensive treatments that are not insurance-covered, like LASIK surgery. Ortho-k lenses can last for many years if you take proper care of them. They are durable and reusable. 

Suitable for Various Types of Myopia

Ortho-k can help control mild, moderate, and severe nearsightedness. The lenses can fit unique eye shapes and help the patient feel maximum effectiveness and comfort. More importantly, they are suitable for individuals who may not qualify for treatments like LASIK surgery.

For more about ortho-k for myopia control, visit Battle Born Eye Care at our office in Reno, Nevada. Call (775) 360-6446 to book an appointment today.