What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, often called Ortho-K is a non-surgical process which reshapes (flattens) the cornea of the eye using contact lenses. Ortho-K uses specially designed tailor made rigid gas permeable contact lenses which are worn at night. Flattening the cornea reduces the focusing power of the eye. If the amount of corneal flattening is accurately controlled, it is possible to bring the eye into correct focus and compensate for myopia (short-sightedness).

Great vision without lenses all day

If you want the advantages of good vision during the day, but without the bother of contact lenses in order to avoid the dry, gritty discomfort and nuisance of taking the lenses out for swimming. And you would like to see if you wake in the middle of the night but don’t fancy eye surgery, then Ortho-K could be the answer for you.

How long has it been available?

The procedure was first used over 40 years ago when it was noticed that some contact lens wearers' vision improved after wearing their lenses. It has been reported in Chinese history that sand bags were placed on the eyes at night in an effort to prevent myopia though this was more likely to cause glaucoma. Initially, only old-fashioned, hard contact lens material was used. A series of lenses were needed, each lens flattening the cornea a small amount until the desired results were attained. This took months to years to accomplish and was often not stable.

Why has it become popular now?

Recent fantastic advances in computer controlled manufacturing methods, in combination with superb high technology new materials for rigid gas permeable lenses, which allow incredible amounts of oxygen to flow through the lenses, even at night, have made accurate and controlled Ortho-k lenses a possibility. TV publicity and an advertising drive by some contact lens companies have made the public more aware than they used to be.

Is it risky?

There are very few risks associated with this method although, it should be remembered there is always a small risk associated with all contact lens wear and it is important to follow the advice we give in respect of hygiene, cleaning and procedures.

What is involved?

Following your evaluation for suitability, a special photograph is taken of each eye which is used to calculate the detailed contours of your eye. The instrument used is called a Topographer. It uses clever computer controlled calculations provide the practitioner details of the corneal shape and height. From this information, and in combination from details of the optical prescription and other painless eye measurements, a lens is computer calculated and ordered.

When the lens arrives, our practitioners will check that it fits properly and teach you how to use the lens. To start off, you will be asked to use the lens for one night and the practitioner will check that the effect is satisfactory in the morning. This is essential to ensure that continued wear will not damage your eyes. If there are any concerns about safety, your practitioner will not continue. Assuming that there are no problems, you will be asked to wear the lens for up to seven nights (the exact period of time depends on the type of lens and fitting results).

Since the technique requires precise fitting (the tolerance on the lenses are one micron) it is not uncommon for adjustments to be required to the lenses. This is done at no charge.

How long does it take to work?

Many people find that they see really well even after one night of wear. Others find it does take a lot longer and we usually find that it takes at least two weeks before the cornea becomes stable and the full visual effect is established. During this initial period, there can be a problem with critical vision and we advise patients that driving might be unwise if there are doubts. The full effect usually takes about a full month to achieve.

Do I have to wear my lenses every night?

Many patients find that they need to use the lenses every night but this depends on the rigidity of the individual cornea. Some people can manage every other night without a problem. If the lenses are not worn for long enough, all day vision not might be achieved.

Do I have to clean my lenses every day?

In a word – YES. Hygiene is important and careful cleaning and disinfection will reduce the risks of infection and problems. Furthermore, the lenses may not work as well if there are deposits on the lenses. It is vital you stick to the solutions given to you by us. They are designed to give you the best results. Please do not swap and change them without consulting us.

Do I need to use drops?

We have found that lubricating drops can increase comfort and lens performance. We will advise you on the best drops to use, and on when to use them.

Do I need regular check ups?

Absolutely. At the beginning we will see you very often. You need to be prepared to invest the time as your safety and best vision is our prime concern. We will refuse to supply replacement lenses if you do not agree to attend for check ups. This is because the lenses can be so comfortable that you might not be aware of problems starting. Prevention is better than cure and we do take the continuing health of your eyes seriously.

Are the lenses comfortable?

The lenses are specifically designed to be worn when you are asleep. For this reason, when the eyes are closed, there is very little sensation and most people find that they can wear the lenses without any problem.

Can I see with the lenses in?

Amazingly enough, the lenses are powered, so that, if you wake at night, vision is usually excellent.

Can I wear the lenses during the day if need be?

Because the lenses are powered, it is possible to wear the lenses for visually critical tasks, like driving, during the day. This is a good option early in the treatment when the full effect has not been established. Bear in mind though, that these lenses are designed to have best effect when the eyes are closed and we do not encourage long periods of day time wear.

How long can I keep my lenses?

Ortho-k lenses are precision, made to measure products from the very best materials available. They are relatively fragile and prone to deposits from your own tear film. This can cause subtle changes in lens parameters that could effect the performance of the lenses. For this reason we will recommend regular replacements for your Ortho-k lenses.

Is everyone suitable?

Unfortunately not. We will only accept patients who meet strict criteria for this technique which (for the time being) we only offer to short sighted people who have moderate amounts of astigmatism.

I suffer from dry eye and allergies, am I suitable?

Because these lenses are worn at night when you are asleep, people who have problems with dry eyes and allergies are often able to cope really well with this lens type.

What will I do in an emergency?

Don’t worry. In the unlikely event that you get into difficulties, we will give you the mobile number of one of our practitioners so that you can call for advice.

Is Ortho-k expensive?

Ortho-k lenses are precision, made to measure products from the very best materials and require considerable skill to fit. Several visits are required when starting to wear these lenses and you should be prepared for this. We charge a set fitting fee no matter how many visits you need so that you know in advance what the charges will be. The lens costs are charges separately. In the unlikely event that you are not successful (we have a success rate of approaching 95%), we will refund the full cost of all lens charges that you have paid. Charges for fitting fees are non refundable. If you attend for ortho-k fitting and are not suitable, we will charge our standard contact lens assessment fee. Details of the costs of ortho-k lenses and all our other lenses are available from our receptionist. Please ask.

Are there different makes and designs of lenses?

There are several different designs and manufacturers of lenses for Orthokeratology. We use only the best materials and manufacturers. All the lenses we use are certified by the USA Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in Orthokeratology. Mostly we use UK laboratories but occasionally we use lenses made in Holland or the USA where special designs are required for the best results. Some lens designs that are currently available are OrthoK®, Nocturnal®, BE®, Dreim Lens®, CRT®

Want to find out more?

Please do give us a call to book an appointment for an assessment. Please note that this service is dependent on special equipment. Please check that this is available when booking your appointment.