Dr. Schwartz answers some of the most commonly asked questions on Ortho-K. Think we missed one? Send us your question here & we’ll add it to the list!
Does ortho-k improve eyesight permanently?
No.
What is an Ortho-K consult?
A consult composes of a comprehenive eye exam including anterior & posterior segment imaging, analysis from 2 corneal topographers, aberrometer, and OCT. A consult takes anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and half depending on the complexity. We share the results, lens modalities that can custom fit your specific anatomy and physiology of eye and cornea (shape, size, curve of the eye), treatment options, and how to enroll in the program.
How Much Does Orthokeratology Cost?
Costs for Ortho-K lenses vary by clinic, often depending on the quality of the lenses used by the practitioner, years of experience, skill, types of technology used to measure & assess the right custom fit, and of course, the patient’s prescription and eye health. At our vision center, our starting retainer is at $2,200 for Ortho-K. (We call it ISON or our “I See Overnight” program.)
Who is Ortho-K good for?
Pretty much anyone. We’ve had children come in as young as 6 all the way to seniors. It’s ideal for children and young teens because Ortho-K we can manage the progression of nearsightedness.
Is Ortho-K better than LASIK?
In short, yes. It’s safe, non-surgical, and will last your entire lifetime. LASIK may correct your vision overnight, but aside from the associated risks involved and dry eye symptoms, many people find their vision regresses after a number of years. Ortho-K will continue to adapt as you grow older or simply keep your vision stable.
How long does it take for Ortho-K to work?
One can notice the improvements in under 30 minutes. But, generally, Ortho-K takes a few hours.
What happens when you stop Ortho-K? How long does it take for Ortho-K to wear off?
After a few days, your cornea will naturally fall into it’s original shape. Some notice the effects of Ortho-K fade faster than others.
How often do I replace my Ortho-K lenses?
Generally, 1-2 years.
Do you need to wear Ortho-K every night?
You don’t need to, but that’s what we recommend.
Why might Ortho-K not work?
Patient selection. We run a battery of testing to make sure a patient is a good candidate so that Ortho-K will enhance their lifestyle and not disturb it. For example, the flattening rate of the cornea is very difficult to treat with an already flattened cornea. A patient who finds Ortho-K isn’t working may have been fitted poorly.
How does Ortho-K work?
The Ortho-K lens is placed towards the central part of the cornea, which creates hydraulic pressure to flatten the curvature of the eye. This is a natural process that allows light to reach the back of the retina with greater precision, resulting in clear vision.
Does Orthokeratology hurt?
No. Initially, there is an upper lid sensation from the lens, but since you sleep with the lenses, you don’t feel them.
Why are my eyes still blurry after Ortho-K?
It could depend on the lens design, material, fit. If material isn’t too breathable, ortho-k can make the lens fog up.
How uncomfortable are Ortho-K lenses?
Not that much. They can be worn during the day, if needed, but patients generally sleep in the lenses overnight.
Can Ortho-K correct astigmatism?
Absolutely. It depends if its central or where it’s located on the cornea, the severity, corneal shape, and anatomy of eye.
Can you swim with Ortho-K?
Ortho-K reshapes your cornea overnight so your vision is clear during the day without contacts or glasses. You can swim without having to wear any corrected eyewear.
Can you drive with Ortho-K?
Once your vision has been corrected overnight, you can definitely drive safely.
Can Ortho-K correct farsightedness?
Definitely doable.
Can you sleep in Ortho-K Lenses?
Yes, ortho-k contact lenses can be worn while sleeping. It not difficult at all to wear the lenses while sleeping.
What happens if you wear Ortho-K during the day?
Your vision will stay clear. You would treat them like contact lenses.
