Say Goodbye to Glasses with Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
What Is Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)?
Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, is a non-surgical vision correction treatment that uses specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses to gently reshape your cornea while you sleep. When you wake up and remove the lenses, you enjoy clear, sharp vision throughout the day without needing glasses or contact lenses.
This Health Canada-approved treatment is a safe, reversible alternative to LASIK surgery and traditional corrective eyewear, making it an ideal solution for people who want freedom from glasses and daytime contacts.
How Does Orthokeratology Work?
Ortho-K lenses work by applying gentle pressure to the cornea overnight, temporarily reshaping its surface to correct nearsightedness or myopia. The process is completely painless and reversible. If you stop wearing the lenses at night, your cornea gradually returns to its original shape.
The treatment follows a simple routine:
Wear custom-fitted Ortho-K lenses while you sleep
Remove lenses in the morning and keep them in cleaning solution
Enjoy clear vision all day without corrective eyewear
Repeat nightly to maintain results
Most patients notice significant vision improvement within the first few days, with optimal results typically achieved within one to two weeks.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?
Orthokeratology can effectively correct:
Myopia (nearsightedness) up to -6.00 diopters
Astigmatism up to -1.75 diopters
Ortho-K is particularly popular among:
Children and teenagers with progressive myopia
Athletes who want clear vision without the hassle of glasses or daytime contacts
Professionals in dusty or dry environments where contact lenses are uncomfortable
Individuals who are not candidates for LASIK or prefer a non-surgical option
Anyone seeking an alternative to daily contact lens wear
Ortho-K is NOT recommended for:
Police officers, pilots, or other first responders
Those who cannot sleep consistently for 6 hours a night
Benefits of Orthokeratology
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Freedom from Daytime Eyewear
Wake up with clear vision and go through your entire day without glasses or contact lenses. Perfect for active lifestyles, sports, and swimming.
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Myopia Control for Children
Research shows Ortho-K can slow the progression of myopia in children by 30-60%, helping protect their long-term eye health and reducing the risk of serious eye conditions later in life.
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Non-Surgical and Reversible
Unlike LASIK, Ortho-K doesn't permanently alter your eyes. If you decide to stop treatment, your vision gradually returns to its original state.
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No Dry Eye Issues
Since you're not wearing lenses during the day, you avoid the dry eye discomfort that many daytime contact lens wearers experience.
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Cost-Effective Long Term Solution
While the initial investment is higher than regular contacts, Ortho-K can be more economical over time compared to continuously purchasing disposable lenses.
The Ortho-K Treatment Process at Our Practice
Initial Consultation and Eye Examination
We begin with a comprehensive eye exam to assess your prescription, corneal shape, and overall eye health. Using advanced corneal topography, we create a detailed map of your eye's surface to design your custom lenses. If you had an eye exam recently, we can see you for a free consultation!
Custom Lens Fitting
Based on your unique eye measurements, we order custom Ortho-K lenses designed specifically for your eyes. The fitting process may require adjustments to ensure optimal comfort and vision correction.
Follow-Up Care
We monitor your progress closely with follow-up appointments after the first night, one week, one month, three months, and then six months. Afterwards, we recommend comprehensive eye examinations with corneal topography yearly. This ensures your lenses are working effectively and your eyes remain healthy.
Ongoing Support
Our eye care team is always available to answer questions and address any concerns throughout your Ortho-K journey.
Is Orthokeratology Safe?
Yes, Ortho-K is Health Canada approved and has been used safely for decades. When proper lens care and hygiene protocols are followed, the risk of complications is very low. We provide thorough training on lens insertion, removal, and cleaning to ensure your safety and success with treatment.
Ortho-K vs. LASIK: Which Is Right for You?
Both Ortho-K and LASIK offer freedom from glasses, but they suit different needs:
Choose Ortho-K if you:
Prefer a non-surgical, reversible option
Are still growing (children and teens)
Have mild to moderate myopia
Want to avoid permanent eye surgery
Choose LASIK if you:
Want a permanent solution
Have a stable prescription
Prefer not to wear lenses nightly
Have higher levels of refractive error
Commonly asked questions about Ortho-K
How long does it take to see results?
Most patients notice improvement within 1-3 days, with full correction typically achieved in 1-2 weeks.
Is it comfortable to sleep with lenses?
Most people adapt quickly. You may feel mild discomfort for the first few nights or weeks. The lenses are made from highly breathable material designed for overnight wear.
What happens if I skip a night?
Your vision may become slightly blurred but will return to clarity once you resume wearing the lenses. Consistency is key for best results.
How long do Ortho-K lenses last?
With proper care, lenses typically last 1-2 years before needing replacement.
Does insurance cover Orthokeratology?
Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance companies and FSA/HSA accounts may cover Ortho-K, especially for myopia control in children. We can help you explore your options.
Start Your Journey to Clear Vision Today
Ready to experience the freedom of waking up with clear vision?
Schedule your Ortho-K consultation today to learn if orthokeratology is right for you. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process and help you achieve the vision freedom you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward glasses-free vision.