Wake up to a vision revolution with Orthokeratology

National news interview in NZ

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K for short) is a new procedure now available at Visique Rose Optometrists. It is also known as corneal reshaping or corneal refractive therapy. Recent advancements in technology now mean that this is a safe and effective option for patients of most spectacle prescriptions. Traditionally orthokeratology has been used for short sighted patients only. Visique Rose Optometrists are the first in the Waikato to be able to offer Orthokeratology for long sighted patients, patients with astigmatism and the most exciting group – patients struggling with reading vision (vision after 40).

What is Ortho-K and how does it work?

Ortho-K gently reshapes the surface layers of the cornea (the clear dome of tissue at the front of your eye) while you sleep. Upon waking, your corneas are the correct shape to accurately focus light enabling you to see clearly without contact lenses or glasses.

What does the treatment involve?

Our optometrists will firstly carry out a full eye examination and take precise measurements of the shape of your corneas using special computerised instrumentation (corneal topography). Assuming your eyes are suitable, you will undertake an overnight trial wearing Ortho-K lenses. The following morning, your eyes will be assessed and any lens adjustments made. It may be necessary to have more than one trial to optimise the lens design. With most people, 70% of the reshaping is obtained during the first night and 100% within 10 days. To retain the correct shape, your Ortho-K lenses need to be worn as a retainer at night. If wear is stopped, the cornea gradually returns to its original shape over a couple of weeks. Therefore, unlike surgical options, Ortho-K is completely reversible and no ocular tissue is removed.

What if I have been unsuccessful with contact lenses before?

There is a good chance that you will still be able to succeed with Ortho-K. Many contact lens wearers discontinue wear because of dryness or discomfort. These are usually not an issue with Ortho-K because the lenses are only worn while you sleep. Also, because your eyes are not wearing lenses while awake, they receive more oxygen to help maintain optimum eye health.

How safe is Ortho-K?

The safety and effectiveness of modern Ortho-K has been demonstrated by independent studies at University Research Departments in Australia and New Zealand. As with all contact lenses, good hygiene and regular check-ups are important.

Myopia Control

Until relatively recently there has been no scientifically proven way of reducing the progression (worsening) of myopia. In fact, the way in which myopia progresses has been very poorly understood until recently. It has been long understood that genetics and environment play a role but the mechanism of myopia progression has now had some clarification in research conducted internationally. It has been shown that where the light focuses in the periphery (side) of the retina has a strong influence on the progression of myopia. Studies show that Ortho-k is the best option for myopia control treatment with 50% or greater potential for reduction.

How does Ortho-k control Myopia?

hen wearing spectacles or traditional contact lenses, the image is clear on the central part of the retina and blurry in the outer parts (or periphery) of the retina. After Ortho-K or corneal moulding, the image is now clear in the periphery of the retina. Creating this situation for a short sighted patient is showing to be a “dimmer” switch for myopia progression. In other words Ortho-k creates a condition that reduces the progression of myopia.