In our modern society, we all are heavily dependent on digital devices and this puts a lot of strain on our eyes. One of the most common eye conditions today is myopia, also known as short-sightedness. Myopia is a prevalent eye condition affecting both adults and children. And ever since the pandemic, there had been an increasing upward trend of myopia progression especially among children.
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K for short, is a non-surgical treatment that corrects mainly myopia, without the need for glasses or day time contact lens use. For children, Ortho-K also helps to slow down and control the progression of myopia.
So, if you are someone with myopia and wish to know how myopia progression can be controlled among children, you are at the right place! This blog will tell you everything about what Ortho-K is, how it works, and the benefits that it can offer.
What is Orthokeratology
Orthokeratology is a non-surgical treatment that makes use of specially designed contact lenses that aid in reshaping the cornea. The process of reshaping helps in the correction of myopia and to some degree of astigmatism. Once this is done, a person can then see considerably well and without having the need to wear glasses or day time contact lenses. Ortho-K lenses are typically worn overnight while sleeping and they are then to be removed in the morning.
How does Ortho-K work?
Ortho-K lenses are typically designed in a way such that it aids in gently reshaping the cornea while the person is asleep. The lenses work by applying gentle pressure on the cornea and this in turn causes the cornea to flatten in the centre, helping to correct myopia. The degree of flattening depends on the person’s prescription and the desired amount of correction, as well as the pre-existing cornea condition.
Ortho-K lenses in Malaysia
Ortho-K lenses are available in Optika Optometrist and it is helpful in correcting myopia as well as controlling its progression, especially among children. But not all people are good candidates for Ortho-K lenses. Generally, a professional eye test and assessment has to be conducted beforehand, and after consulting an optometrist, then he/she will be in a position to tell if a person is suitable for Ortho-K lenses.
Benefits of Orthokeratology
Ortho-K lenses offer several benefits to patients, including:
● Clear vision without glasses or contact lenses during the day
● No need for surgery
● Non-invasive treatment
● Myopia control
● Reversible treatment
● Suitable for children and adults
Is Orthokeratology safe?
Ortho-K is safe and effective as it is performed by trained and professional optometrists, and as long as the lens handling and hygiene are well taken care of. However, there are certain kinds of risks involved in this treatment just like all other medical treatments. Some people may come across mild side effects such as dry eyes, glare, or halos around lights. But all these side effects usually do not last for a long time and can be managed with time.
How long does Ortho-K treatment last?
Ortho-K treatments can give good vision for up to 16 hours following a good night of wear. But, the effects of Ortho-K are only temporary, and the lenses need to be worn on a regular basis (preferably every night) to keep the desired level of correction. The amount of time Ortho-K treatment is effective depends on the individual needs of a person and the level of correction needed.
So, by now you must be well versed in what Orthokeratology is and all the benefits that it comes with. If you are someone who would like to have an alternative method of correcting myopia, or simply to slow down the progression of myopia among children, now is a good time to seek a professional consultation from our optometrist and see if you are a good candidate.
Choosing the Right Ortho-K Provider
Picking the right Ortho-K practitioner can be difficult sometimes, specifically when there are a lot of optometrists to choose from. Hence, it is advised to pick an optical shop in Malaysia that possesses an abundance of experience in dealing with cases relating to the Ortho-K treatment. Optika Optometrist has been prescribing and dispensing Ortho-K lenses since 2012, and is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology to carry out the procedure, and most importantly the experience of our consultant optometrist Mr Darren. Contact us at +603 7727 1988 for more information.