WU EYE CARE

Myopia Control/Orthokeratology (Ortho-K/OK lens)

What is myopia?

 

Myopia is a refractive condition in which the vision is blurred and is often corrected using glasses, contact lenses, or surgery.  The rate of myopia in the United States accounts for 42% of the population. The rate of myopia in countries like Singapore, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Korea is 80-90%.  Myopia tends to occur during childhood and usually does not stabilize until the mid 20’s in age. During this period, the rate of myopia can increase based on blurred vision, genetics, and long-hours of near work/activity. 

 

How can we control myopia?

 

While studies have shown that having a combined amount of 2 hours in sunlight daily can help limit myopia progression, more studies have shown that myopia can be controlled using Multifocal Soft Contact Lens, Ortho-K, Atropine Eye Drops, and in some countries, specialized glasses.  

 

Multifocal soft contact lenses are worn every day while awake and removed before going to sleep at night. They can vary from daily disposable to monthly disposable lenses.

 

Ortho-K lenses are worn at night for at least 6 hours during sleep and removed upon waking. The cornea of the eyes will temporarily be flattened to correct vision during sleep and will give clear vision during the day without the use of any correction. The flattening of the cornea is similar to how LASIK/PRK are performed during corrective surgery, but only in a temporary fashion. This technique has been found to help control the rate of myopia progression.  Ortho-K lenses are FDA approved for wear and will not cause any harm to the eyes. 

 

Ortho-K and Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses are both safe as long as patients maintain good lens hygiene and have regular follow-ups. We can fit both contact lenses in the office, with ortho-k needing to be custom ordered. Insertion and removal will be taught in-office Fitting and Insertion/Removal training can take as little as 15 minutes, but can vary based on speed of learning. 

 

What about for adults?

 

Ortho-K can also be a great alternative for patients under 45 who do not wish to wear either glasses or soft contact lenses during the day. Many people suffer from dryness while wearing soft contact lenses throughout the day, and this can be a great alternative.  It is a great non-surgical approach for patients who wish to be glasses free, but are hesitant on surgery. 

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