What Is Ortho-K and How Does It Work?
Ortho-K, also known as orthokeratology, is a non-surgical vision correction treatment that uses specially designed contact lenses to reshape your cornea overnight. At the Orthokeratology Center of Washington in Kirkland, WA, we offer expert Ortho-K treatments to help you achieve clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. This innovative approach temporarily reshapes the front surface of your eye while you sleep, providing effective vision correction for common refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia)
How Orthokeratology Lenses Works
Benefits of Orthokeratology
Choosing Ortho-K in Kirkland, WA comes with many benefits, especially for those seeking a non-invasive alternative to LASIK surgery. Ortho-K lenses offer clear, sharp vision during the day without the hassle of wearing glasses or contacts. It’s an ideal solution for people with active lifestyles, such as athletes or outdoor enthusiasts, who want freedom from eyewear. Additionally, Ortho-K has been shown to slow the progression of myopia in children, making it an excellent option for younger patients. Our specialists at the Orthokeratology Center of Washington will tailor your Ortho-K treatment to meet your specific vision needs.
Quick Results
Kid-Friendly
Non-Surgical
Low Cost
FDA Approved
Reversable
Clearly Satisfied Customers
My son has been Dr. Gill’s Ortho-K patient for about 3 years and we couldn’t be happier. His knowledge and experience in Ortho-K treatment are evident from the very first consultation.
My now 15 year old has been doing orthokeratology with Dr. Gill for 2 years now. Dr. Gill is so great that we followed him from his old practice to this new one.
Dr Gill is very professional and knowledgeable, highly recommend!
My son has been with Dr. Gill for quite a few years, he is super nice, very knowledgeable and really experienced. He also truly cares about patient, lucky to have him as our eye doctor and help with Ortho-K lens.
FAQs
What is orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology, often called Ortho-K, is a non-surgical treatment that uses specially designed retainer lenses to temporarily reshape the contour of the cornea to reduce myopia (nearsightedness).
How does orthokeratology work?
You wear Ortho-K retainer lenses overnight. While you sleep, the retainers gently reshape the front surface of your eye (cornea), so you can see clearly the next day after removing the lenses.
Is orthokeratology safe?
Yes, when prescribed and monitored by an experienced eye care professional, Ortho-K is a safe and effective method of myopia management and vision correction. Proper lens care and hygiene are essential to minimize risks.
Can orthokeratology permanently correct myopia?
No, the effects of Ortho-K are temporary. You must continue wearing the lenses as prescribed to maintain the vision correction benefits.
Who is a good candidate for orthokeratology?
Ortho-K is suitable for individuals of all ages with myopia, and it’s especially beneficial for children and teenagers whose myopia is progressing rapidly.
If you have been unable to wear contact lenses for any reason (discomfort, allergies, inconvenience, dryness, etc.), you are also a great candidate because this lens is so easy to use and it’s worn while you sleep. This greatly reduces any discomfort you may have experienced while using conventional contact lenses.
You are also a great candidate if you need excellent vision without the use of contacts or glasses. Ortho-K benefits pilots, police officers, military personnel, and those with safety concerns such as professional athletes, parents of small children, lifeguards, and many others.
Finally, if you just don’t want to be bothered with wearing glasses or contact lenses during a variety of activities such as hiking, playing sports, swimming, skiing, camping, off-road driving, biking, snorkeling, scuba and more, Ortho-K is for you.
Is orthokeratology uncomfortable?
Most people find Ortho-K retainer lenses comfortable to wear overnight. There might be a slight awareness of the lenses at first, but this usually subsides quickly.
Can orthokeratology retainer lenses slip out of place?
Ortho-K retainer lenses are designed to fit your eyes snugly and typically do not move out of place easily, making them safe to wear overnight.
How often do I need to replace my Ortho-K retainer lenses?
The replacement schedule can vary, but most lenses need to be replaced annually. Retainers can warp, causing poor treatment results or build up with protein, preventing oxygen from getting to the eye. Your eye doctor will advise you on the best replacement schedule for your specific needs.
What happens if I stop wearing Ortho-K retainer lenses?
If you discontinue wearing the retainer lenses, your vision will gradually return to its original state before Ortho-K treatment.
What is the difference between Ortho-K and LASIK?
Ortho-K involves wearing custom fitted contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, offering non surgical vision correction. LASIK is a surgical procedure that permanently reshapes the cornea using a laser, providing long term correction for refractive errors.
