Orthokeratology, commonly referred to as ortho-k, presents a remarkable non-surgical vision correction procedure that employs specialized gas permeable contact lenses worn overnight during sleep to gently reshape the cornea, ultimately rectifying one's vision. The cornea plays a pivotal role as the eye's front surface that guides incoming light. When the cornea is misshapen, images appear blurry and challenging to decipher. Ortho-k works its magic by carefully molding the cornea, ensuring it assumes the correct shape to properly refract light, granting you the gift of improved eyesight. What's even more incredible is that this transformation occurs while you're catching your Zs. So, each morning, upon awakening, all you need to do is remove your ortho-k lenses, and voilà, you can revel in enhanced vision, possibly up to a crystal-clear 20/20, throughout the day.
Ortho-k isn't limited to a select few. Many individuals dealing with mild to moderate nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism, can reap the benefits of ortho-k lenses. The catch is that the effects are maintained only when the lenses are worn nightly. Should you decide to discontinue their use, your eyes will revert to their original state. However, the risks associated with ortho-k are quite minimal, and patients can stop using them at any time without adverse consequences. What's more, ortho-k doesn't preclude the option of undergoing LASIK in the future. Although ortho-k lenses are primarily prescribed for nearsightedness, they can also effectively address astigmatism, farsightedness, and, in some instances, even presbyopia.
Suppose you're yearning to break free from the shackles of glasses and contact lenses but aren't an ideal candidate for refractive surgery due to age or other ocular conditions like dry eyes. In that case, ortho-k may be the solution you've been searching for.
Your journey with ortho-k commences with a specialized fitting conducted by your eye care specialist at Dr. Torrey J. Carlson and Associates, who will evaluate your suitability for ortho-k lenses and ensure a comfortable and safe fit. The process begins with a painless measurement of your "corneal topography," a quick procedure taking just around a minute. This step provides your eye care specialist with a comprehensive understanding of the unique topography of your eye. Depending on your needs, you'll either be fitted from the in-office inventory of ortho-k lenses or may have a custom pair ordered for a later fitting appointment. Typically, the initial pair or two of lenses are temporary, setting in motion the cornea reshaping process. By the time you receive the third pair, most individuals can expect to achieve their maximum level of vision correction.
The time it takes to witness a change in your vision due to ortho-k can vary from person to person. Some people may experience improved vision after a mere day or two of using ortho-k lenses overnight, while those requiring a stronger prescription might take a few weeks to experience the full benefit.
It's crucial to note that ortho-k lenses are highly specialized, and only certified optometrists with expertise in this area can provide the necessary fittings. For more information and to determine if ortho-k lenses are the right choice for you, reach out to Dr. Torrey J. Carlson and Associates today.