If you have certain vision problems, you may be able to have them improved or corrected by simply wearing contact lenses. Depending on the success of the treatment, it may be possible for you to get to the point where you no longer require the assistance of prescription lenses at all. This type off treatment is orthokeratology, also commonly referred to as ortho-k. Learn about orthokeratology in this article.

What exactly is orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology treats certain vision problems by providing you with specially fitted contact lenses you will wear while you are sleeping. The lenses work by reshaping your corneas, allowing you to enjoy an improvement in your vision. A great thing about this treatment is it offers you improvement the very next day after wearing the lenses. The affects generally last only about a day, so these contacts should be worn regularly.

Who would be a good candidate for ortho-k?

Orthokeratology can show positive results to people with an astigmatism, those with hyperopia, or people who are nearsighted. The treatment can also be used to slow childhood myopia. The success of this type of treatment depends on the seriousness of your condition and how well your eyes react to the lenses. Therefore, the results patients see will vary.

What results can be expected from ortho-k?

When your optometrist starts you on this treatment, they will be aiming for 20/20 vision. However, if your condition is moderate to severe, then a result of 20/40 without glasses on will be considered acceptable. If your vision cannot be improved to 20/40 or better, then this treatment may not be worth it to you.

What is the process for getting the contacts?

The optometrist will start by giving you the same eye exam they normally would. Then, they will us what's called a topographer to measure the shape and size of your cornea. The measurements will be used to match you up with the correct sized contacts. The optometrist may have ortho-k contacts on site that fit, or you may have to have them ordered.

If you have vision problems then you should consider talking to your optometrist to see if your vision problems are being caused by something that the ortho-k treatment may be helpful with. If you are a good candidate for this type of treatment, you just may find that you are able to enjoy the benefits of having your vision problems improved overnight.

For professional eye care, contact a doctor such as Dr Gary Wetmore Optometrist.