Ortho-K Lens Fitting: How It Works

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) corrects your vision while you sleep, using specially designed contact lenses to gently reshape the cornea overnight. In the morning, you remove the lenses and enjoy clear vision throughout the day without glasses or contact lenses.

Just as no two fingerprints are alike, every cornea has a unique shape. That’s why Ortho-K lenses need to be fitted precisely to each individual.

Here’s what to know about Ortho-K and what to expect during the process.

Who Can Wear Ortho-K Lenses?

Research shows Ortho-K lenses can help slow the progression of child myopia, reducing the risk of high levels of short-sightedness later in life.

While some adults may benefit from treatment, we find Ortho-K is most often suitable for children and teens. 

For people who prefer not to undergo procedures like LASIK, or who are not suitable candidates, Ortho-K may be an alternative.

The Initial Consultation

During your first visit, we perform a comprehensive eye examination, including:

• Measuring the curvature of the cornea.
• Checking for irregularities or corneal health issues.
• Retinal photography
• Assessing whether the eye is suitable for Ortho-K lens wear.

We also discuss your child’s individual lifestyle and eye health needs, and answer any questions you may have.

Eye Measurements and Custom Lens Design

Accurate data is critical to ensure Ortho-K lenses fit correctly. We use advanced diagnostic tools, including:

• Corneal Topography: Creates a contour map of the cornea to guide lens design.
• Keratometry: Measures the curvature of the central cornea.
• Slit-lamp Examination: Allows detailed inspection of the corneal surface.
• Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness for a complete picture of corneal health.

Fitting and Learning to Use Ortho-K Lenses

Once measurements are taken and you decide to proceed, you return with your child for a fitting, where your optometrist will demonstrate how to safely insert, remove and care for your Ortho-K lenses.

You will also receive a set of trial lenses which your child will wear during sleep for seven days, so that we can monitor progress and make any minor adjustments as required.

The final lenses will then be ordered Ortho-K treatment can begin. 

Regular Checkups and Aftercare

Follow-up appointments are essential for successful Ortho-K use. These visits allow us to:

• Monitor corneal health and detect any early issues.
• Assess how well the lenses are fitting and reshaping the cornea.
• Answer questions and adjust the treatment plan if needed.
• Our usual follow-up schedule includes appointments the next day, one week, one month, three months, and six months – though this may vary depending on the individual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can adults wear Ortho-K lenses?

Ortho-K is available for adults, with similar levels of effectiveness; though risk of complications may be slightly elevated. If you are an adult interested in finding out if Ortho-K could benefit you, please book an appointment with our optometrists.

How long does it take for Ortho-K lenses to work?

Some improvement is often noticed after the first night, but stable results usually develop over several days or weeks.

Is Ortho-K safe?

While generally safe when used properly, Ortho-K carries the risk of side effects such as corneal staining and bacterial infection.

Always follow your optometrist’s instructions for proper hand hygiene, lens cleaning, disinfection, and storage.

Never wear the lenses if your eyes are red, painful, or irritated, and seek immediate professional care if you experience eye pain, redness, discharge, light sensitivity, or sudden vision changes.

Do you wear Ortho-K lenses during the day?

No. The lenses are worn overnight and removed in the morning, leaving you with clear vision for the day.

Can you read or watch TV with the lenses on?

Yes. Ortho-K lenses do not block vision while worn at night.

Are Ortho-K, night lenses, and dream lenses the same thing?

Yes – these are all different names for the same type of overnight vision correction lens.

If you’d like to explore whether Ortho-K lenses are right for you or your child, book a consultation with our team today.