Advancements in technology have led to the introduction of lenses that help correct myopia and slow down its progression. Orthokeratology (ortho-k) or corneal refractive therapy is a treatment that is used to reduce or control myopia. The therapy involves the use of gas-rigid permeable lenses that a wearer keeps on the whole night.
The lenses help reshape the cornea over time. The lenses have proven to be very effective for controlling myopia in children. It is important to understand the benefits of ortho-k for myopia control.
One of the benefits of ortho-k therapy is enjoying great vision without wearing corrective lenses. Wearing glasses or contacts can be an inconvenience, especially if you have an active lifestyle. With ortho-k treatment, you wear the lenses all night and remove them in the morning. You then go all day without corrective lenses, and you can do so with 20/20 vision.
Another benefit of ortho-k is correcting several vision issues. While it is typically used to correct myopia, the therapy can also help treat mild hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. An eye specialist can tell you if ortho-k therapy can help you with your condition. If you are an ideal candidate for the treatment, you can begin the therapy immediately.
One of the best things about ortho-k is that it is safe and works fast. Some people can do without their corrective lenses after a single night of therapy. The therapy works effectively as long as the lenses are worn as prescribed. Those who have a strong prescription often require two to three weeks to enjoy optimal results.
When you wear ortho-k lenses all night, you will have good vision all day. The treatment lasts all day, so you need not go back to glasses in the middle of the day. In some cases, the results can last two days. However, you need to wear myopia control lenses all night.
Some people assume that rigid gas permeable lenses are uncomfortable. The truth is that while it may take a while to get used to the lenses, they are comfortable. Wearing them while you sleep means that you do not have to worry about comfort. Most people report that they do not even notice that they have the lenses in their eyes.
Most people avoid wearing regular contacts due to their dry eye condition that makes it uncomfortable to wear the lenses. When you opt for ortho-k treatment, you will not have to wear contacts during the day. You will only need to wear the contacts at night. So, your eyes will be comfortable during the day.
Ortho-k treatment for myopia control is safe and non-invasive, and almost anyone can use the lenses. The treatment is flexible, which means that you can use it as a temporary measure as you wait to get LASIK. The treatment is reversible, so if you stop wearing the lenses, you will not experience permanent changes.
For more benefits of ortho-k for myopia control, visit Coers Family Eyecare, PC, at our office in Columbus, Indiana. You can call (812) 408-8400 today to schedule an appointment.