Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): A Non-Surgical Solution for Myopia Control

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common vision condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. As more children and young adults develop myopia at an early age, managing its progression has become increasingly important. Left unchecked, myopia can lead to more severe eye health issues later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.

Fortunately, advances in optometry have introduced non-surgical solutions for myopia control, such as orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K. This treatment offers patients a way to slow myopia progression while eliminating the need for daytime glasses or contact lenses.

What is Myopia?

Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. As a result, distant objects appear out of focus. Myopia often begins in childhood and typically worsens during the school years as the eyes continue to grow. Genetics, excessive near work (like reading or screen time), and limited outdoor activities are all factors that can contribute to myopia.
 

The Importance of Myopia Management

Managing myopia early on is crucial to prevent the condition from worsening over time. High levels of myopia are associated with an increased risk of developing serious eye conditions in adulthood, such as retinal degeneration or tears. By controlling the progression of myopia during childhood and adolescence, optometrists can help reduce the risk of future complications and improve long-term eye health.
 

What is Orthokeratology?

Ortho-K is a specialized, non-surgical treatment that uses gas-permeable contact lenses to gently reshape the cornea while you sleep. These lenses are worn overnight and temporarily reshape the surface of the eye, allowing for clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
 

The process begins with a comprehensive eye exam, where your optometrist will assess your eye health and measure your corneal shape. Custom Ortho-K lenses are then designed specifically for your eyes. As you wear these lenses each night, they gradually flatten the front surface of your cornea, helping to correct the way light enters the eye and reducing the effects of myopia.
 

Benefits of Ortho-K for Myopia Control

• Slows Myopia Progression: Numerous studies have shown that Ortho-K can slow the progression of myopia in children, reducing the risk of severe myopia later in life.
   

• Freedom from Glasses or Contacts During the Day: Ortho-K provides clear vision throughout the day without the need for corrective eyewear, making it ideal for active individuals and those who find daytime contacts or glasses inconvenient.
   

• Non-Invasive and Reversible: Unlike LASIK or other surgical treatments, Ortho-K is non-invasive and fully reversible. If you stop wearing the lenses, your eyes will return to their original shape.
   

• Improved Quality of Life: For children and adults who prefer not to wear glasses or deal with the hassle of daily contact lenses, Ortho-K offers an easy and effective alternative.
   

Is Ortho-K Right for You?

Ortho-K is a great option for individuals with mild to moderate myopia, particularly for children whose vision is still changing. It’s also suitable for athletes or anyone who wants to avoid wearing glasses or contact lenses during the day. If you or your child are dealing with myopia and are looking for a non-surgical, safe, and effective way to control its progression, ask your optometrist about Ortho-K.
 

Schedule an Eye Exam with Texas State Optical Today 

At Texas State Optical, we’re committed to helping you find the best solutions for your eye health. Orthokeratology offers a promising method for managing myopia, providing both immediate vision correction and long-term benefits. 
 

Contact Texas State Optical to schedule a consultation and learn more about how Ortho-K can benefit you or your child. Visit our office in Kerrville, Texas, or call (830) 201-3200 to book an appointment today.