Orthokeratology
What is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology (also known as OrthoK, OK, corneal reshaping, corneal refractive therapy, CRT, and vision shaping treatment) is a non-surgical alternative to laser eye surgery. It involves the use of custom-designed rigid lenses worn overnight to gently and temporarily modify the curvature of the cornea. Think of them like dental retainers for the eyes. Lenses are removed in the morning allowing for clear vision without lenses all day!
Mission Eye Care in Calgary is the only clinic in Canada that has 3 optometrists residency trained in fitting all types of custom specialty contact lenses – including Orthokeratology for myopia control.
Lenses are customized based on precise topographical mapping technology and are suitable for both children and adults.
How does OrthoK work?
These custom designed lenses are worn overnight. When taken out in the morning, the change in corneal curvature effectively corrects your vision and allows freedom from glasses!
The effect generally lasts the entire day provided the lenses are worn every night. These lenses can be used at any age to allow freedom from glasses, but the most common clinical application of OrthoK is in children. These lenses are designed to reduce myopia (nearsightedness), effectively slowing down elongation of the eye. You can read more about myopia control in Calgary. There is no age limit on who can wear orthokeratology lenses, but we generally start as soon as myopic changes are noted, often as early as age 7. When used as directed and fit by an experienced optometrist, OrthoK is safe and one of the most effective options for slowing of myopic progression. OrthoK is also non-surgical and fully reversible. Stop wearing them and vision returns to your original state.
Is OrthoK safe?
Yes. Modern rigid contact lens materials are breathable and safe when used correctly. Our team will train you and your child on the proper care, cleaning and handling of these lenses. If your child is young, you will likely be inserting and removing the lenses. Once your child is responsible enough to handle them on their own, we will ensure they are well trained to do so. Studies show a very low risk of eye infections with these lenses, and they have been used for decades with great success.
