Myopia care is becoming increasingly popular among both patients and qualified optician optometrist. I become energized by the challenge of learning something new, whether it’s how to fit a soft multifocal lens when to prescribe atropine, or how to achieve optimal results with orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses.
During my 15 years of experience managing progressive myopia, I have witnessed several shifts in the approach taken to combating this condition. In the wake of technological advancements, ODs are better able to provide treatment to a wider variety of patients.
Ortho-K lenses, short for “orthokeratology” lenses, are specialized gas-permeable lenses created to alter the cornea’s shape. After sleeping with the lenses, the patient will be able to see clearly without the need of corrective lenses during the day. Astigmatism, myopia, and hyperopia are all treatable with Ortho-k lenses. Take a look at these seven interesting tidbits regarding corneal reshaping and Ortho-K lenses that you probably didn’t know before.
- Ortho-K lenses are not a recent development.
While Ortho-K lenses are typically referred to as a new development, their use dates back to the 1940s, when surgeons learned that a special type of glass contact lens could be used to alter the curvature of the cornea. The next decades saw continued growth, with the ’90s marking the beginning of the procedure’s widespread adoption. The technology has progressed in many ways throughout the years, from advancements in gas-permeable lenses to computerized corneal topography software.
It has also become clear that orthokeratology is among the best methods for preventing myopia from worsening in young people.
- Myopia has reached epidemic proportions.
More than a billion individuals throughout the world have difficulty seeing clearly because of myopia. By 2050, that number is predicted to rise to roughly 5 billion as a result of aging populations, fewer hours spent outdoors, and increased screen usage. For almost two decades, ortho-k lenses have been among the most successful therapies. As myopia becomes ever more frequent, this sort of treatment will become more popular – and more vital – for people all across the world. Because of this worldwide epidemic, orthokeratology is increasingly vital for both the treatment and prevention of myopia.
- the after-effects may linger for more than a day.
Patients should sleep in their lenses for optimal results, however, the effects usually last longer than 24 hours. Typically, after one night of using Ortho-K lenses, patients report clear vision for up to two days. You can wear the lenses throughout the day, but they’re more pleasant for nighttime wear as they are actually altering the cornea. In most cases, it is more crucial to wear the lenses every night initially while the reshaping is taking place. It’s possible that you’ll be able to increase the frequency of your wear as your treatment advances.
- Moreover, it is not uncomfortable in any way.
It’s common to worry that corneal reshaping will hurt but be assured that it doesn’t. The reshaping didn’t happen as a result of being squeezed or “squished,” therefore this is the case. Instead, hydraulic pressure is responsible for it. The lens creates a fluid vault over the eye, forcing the cornea to change shape by absorbing more or less fluid in different areas. This temporarily fixes any abnormalities with the cornea’s curvature.
- Kids love it!
It’s true that ortho-k glasses can help practically everyone, but kids are often the best candidates because of their developing eyes. This is due to the fact that LASIK surgery is not recommended for people of such a young age. When it comes to youngsters who don’t want to wear glasses, though, Ortho-K lenses have proven to be incredibly effective. This treatment is now widely accepted as the standard of care for managing myopia in children, as seen by its rapid rise to the top of the list of proven procedures for halting the progression of the condition. If you fall into a certain range of prescriptions, you may be a candidate. Pilots, police officers, and athletes who rely on their eyesight to perform their jobs may also benefit.
