Are You a Good Candidate for Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)?
When it comes to your vision, it's vital to take good care of it. You want to have strong eye health and be able to see clearly. If you're in the Fountain Valley, CA, area and interested in finding out more about optometry options like orthokeratology (ortho-k), reaching out to Fountain Valley Optometry can help you get the information you need to make an informed choice about vision correction. Here's what you need to know about ortho-k and whether it might be right for your needs.
What Is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, is the use of specialized contact lenses that help reshape your eye's cornea while you sleep. The lenses are worn overnight and taken out in the morning. Because they're RGP (rigid gas-permeable) lenses, they're solid enough to reshape the cornea and flatten it out. They're particularly good for people with astigmatism and are also often used for children with this condition. Since it's a non-surgical option, your eyes will go back to their original vision if you stop wearing the lenses at night.
Can Ortho-K Work for Everyone?
Ortho-k works for many people, but it's not for everyone. It's primarily used for people who have astigmatism because they have more of a curve or bulge to their corneas. That's what causes the light to be incorrectly reflected into their eyes and creates blurry vision. But with flatter corneas from orthokeratology, it's easier to see clearly. If you don't have astigmatism and aren't nearsighted, however, ortho-k may not be the optometry solution for your needs. There are other options that could improve your vision, instead.
What Kinds of Exams are Needed?
A standard eye health and vision exam are both needed for ortho-k. You'll also need to have a contact lens exam to look at the shape of your corneas and determine whether this method of vision correction would work for you. If you're a good candidate, you can decide if you want to choose this method, or consider other options, instead.
Get Help from Supportive Vision Care Professionals Today
Contact us at Fountain Valley Optometry if you're in the Fountain Valley, CA, area. We can help you consider all your optometry options, including ortho-k. If orthokeratology is right for you, we'll work with you on treatment that fits your needs and that gives you the best possible vision correction. Life is better when you can see clearly, and if you can reduce or eliminate your need for glasses or contacts during the day, it may be easier to partake in sports or other activities you enjoy. Call (714) 210-2393 for an appointment.