ORTHOKERATOLOGY (ORTHO-K) OR “NIGHT LENSES”: A NON-SURGICAL OPTION TO SLOW MYOPIA PROGRESSION IN KIDS
WHAT ARE ORTHO-K LENSES?
Ortho-k or orthokeratology, also known as night lenses are specially designed contact lenses worn overnight. These lenses reshape the cornea (the front surface of the eye) to correct myopia and other refractive issues.
The best part? Your child doesn’t need to wear glasses or contact lenses during the day!
HOW DO THEY WORK?
Ortho-k lenses are worn while your child sleeps. The lenses gently flatten the cornea which in turn corrects the vision. When you wake up in the morning you can enjoy clear vision throughout the day without any further need for corrective lenses.
Ortho-k lenses not only correct vision but also help slow down the progression of myopia. This is a vital benefit as myopia tends to worsen over time with early intervention being the best treatment plan to prevent progression.
WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE?
Ortho-k lenses are suitable for children and teenagers who have mild to moderate myopia (up to -6.00D). It’s also a great option for children with astigmatism. The lenses are effective for kids as young as 5 years old and they can continue wearing them into their teenage and adult years.
The best candidate for night lenses are those with healthy eyes and a lifestyle that can benefit from the convenience of clear vision without glasses or contacts during the day. Children involved in sports, particularly water sports are often ideal candidates as the lenses offer freedom from corrective lenses during the day.
HOW EFFECTIVE ARE ORTHO-K LENSES?
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING TREATMENT?
The fitting process for night lenses involves taking detailed measurements of your eyes, including corneal topography (mapping the shape of the cornea). Once the correct lens is designed and made, you will wear the lenses while they sleep and follow-up visits will ensure everything is working as it should.
It’s important to note that consistency is key. You should wear the lenses every night to maintain clear vision the next day. While you might notice a slight difference to your vision at first, the process becomes comfortable and routine over time.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING TREATMENT?
- No glasses or contact lenses during the day: This is especially beneficial for those who are active or involved in sports.
- Reduced risk of eye infections: Since the lenses are only worn at night the risk of irritation and infection is lower compared to normal contact lenses during the day.
- Proven to slow down myopia progression: Night lenses help control the worsening of myopia which can reduce the need for stronger glasses and ocular diseases in the future
ARE THERE ANY RISKS?
As with any contact lens there can be some potential for discomfort or complications, such as eye infections. However most children adapt well to wearing night lenses, and the benefits generally outweigh the risks. Close follow-ups with your optometrist are essential to ensure the treatment is progressing as expected.
CONCLUSION
Ortho-k lenses offer an effective non-surgical option for correcting and controlling myopia in children and teenagers. By reshaping the cornea overnight these lenses help slow the progression of myopia, giving your child clearer vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. As optometrist Dr. Frances Grasso puts it, night lenses provide a “game-changing solution” for myopia helping protect your child’s eyes for the future.
To learn more about whether night lenses are right for your child, book an appointment with an Eyecare Kids optometrist today.
