Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) For Child Myopia

Ortho-K lenses are specially designed rigid contact lenses that are worn overnight to correct childhood myopia and other vision conditions.

While you sleep, they gently reshape the front surface of your eye (the cornea). By morning, you can see clearly throughout the day.

Why Consider Ortho-K?

• Clear vision all day without glasses or contact lenses.

• Freedom for sport and outdoor activities where glasses and contacts can get in the way.

• A non-surgical, reversible treatment. If you stop wearing the lenses, your cornea returns to its original shape.

Effectiveness and Safety

Like any vision correction option, Ortho-K requires professional fitting and monitoring. Its effectiveness depends on factors such as the degree of myopia and the natural shape of your cornea.

Some people achieve full correction, while others may still need a light prescription for certain tasks.

Overall, many patients notice improvement within the first week, though regular check-ups are important to ensure lenses fit properly and your eyes remain healthy.

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.

Ortho-K and Myopia Control in Children

Ortho-K is commonly used to slow the progression of myopia in children.

This matters because higher levels of myopia increase the risk of eye conditions later in life, such as:

• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Retinal detachment
• Myopic maculopathy

Research shows Ortho-K can reduce eye elongation (the main cause of myopia) by around 50% over two years, though individual results vary.

How Can I Help My Child With Their Ortho-K Treatment?

For parents, supporting a child with Ortho-K means:

• Encouraging consistent nightly wear
• Helping with hygiene and lens care
• Attending regular follow-up appointments

With good support, most children adapt quickly and enjoy the freedom of clear vision without daytime glasses.

What to Expect from the Fitting Process

Fitting Ortho-K lenses involves several steps:

1. Comprehensive assessment – including corneal topography to map the eye’s surface.
2. Lens selection and trial fitting – based on prescription and corneal shape.
3. Training – guidance on inserting, removing, and caring for the lenses.
4. Follow-up appointments – to monitor progress and adjust as needed.
5. Professional oversight is essential, but the process is straightforward and well-tolerated.

Practical Tips for New Wearers

• Wear the lenses every night for the best results.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before handling lenses.
• Clean and store lenses exactly as advised by your optometrist.
• Schedule regular reviews to check fit and eye health.

With practice, inserting and removing the lenses becomes routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ortho-K permanently fix vision?
No. The effect is temporary and reverses if you stop wearing the lenses.

Do you wear them during the day?
No. They are only worn at night while you sleep.

Can children use Ortho-K?
Yes. In fact, we find Ortho-K to be most suitable for children and teens.

How long do the lenses last?
Typically 12-18 months, depending on condition.

Is Ortho-K Right For My Child?

If you’re considering Ortho-K for your child, the next step is a consultation with an experienced optometrist.

At Optometrist Parramatta, we provide thorough assessments to determine if your child is eligible for Ortho-K during our comprehensive eye tests.

If your child is myopic, we can discuss options for treatment based on their individual needs and eye health.

To find out more, book an appointment with us today.