ORTHOK/CORNEAL MOLDING

What Is ORTHOKERATOLOGY?
In the most basic of terms Accelerated Overnight Orthokeratology or Ortho-K ( Corneal Molding ) is the science of changing the curvature or shape of the cornea to change how light is focused on the retina at the back of one's eye.

Can you imagine the joy of performing sports activities like swimming or playing baseball without depending on your eyeglasses or contact lenses for the rest of the day? You would be free to enjoy many activities that you may otherwise avoid because of your glasses or contact lenses. No more glasses getting in the way because you are too active, no more hitting the walls during swimming!

Orthokeratology uses very special custom designed corneal molds to gently reshape the cornea into an improved shape to reduce or correct myopia or nearsightedness, astigmatism,hyperopia and in some cases, presbyopia.

When you choose Ortho-k a few key tests must be performed. Chief among these tests is the determination that your eyes are healthy. The Orthokeratologist will examine the retina and also the health of the outside of the eye. The other key procedure is the mapping of your cornea. To do this an instrument called a Corneal Topographer is used. Just like a topographical map of a camping area shows hills, plains, and valleys; the topography of the eye shows your doctor exactly how your cornea is shaped. The information from your corneal mapping plus the size of your cornea and the prescription needed to correct your vision are all used to design the lenses (corneal molds) needed to create the Ortho-k effect.

On the day you pick up your Ortho-k retainer lenses you will be instructed in how to insert, remove, and take care of the corneal molds. The fit of your corneal mold will be evaluated and you will be scheduled to be seen after your first night of wear. On day 1, your doctor will re-evaluate your fit and newly corrected vision and another mapping of your cornea will be performed.

Throughout your initial fitting period, your Orthokeratologist will monitor your corneal health and the effectiveness of treatment. At certain times your retainer lens fit may be modified to achieve your goals.

Orthokeratology can produce results in a surprisingly short period of time. The length of treatment to achieve your goals can vary from patient to patient.

Factors that can affect the speed of treatment include the following:

1.your initial prescription
2.corneal rigidity and shape
3.tear quality and quantity
4.your expectations.

We advise patients that they will need to use their retainers every night to maintain their newly corrected vision although some patients are able to vary their wearing time to once every two nights. The reason for this is due to the flexibility of your cornea.

Orthokeratology is ideal for children, sports enthusiasts, police officers, fire fighters and pilots and for people who want to have freedom from corrective lenses during their daily activities.

For more information about orthokeratology, visit www.okglobal.org