The Benefits of Ortho-K for Children: How Orthokeratology Controls Myopia Progression

As myopia (nearsightedness) becomes increasingly common in children, parents are looking for ways to slow its progression and protect their child’s vision. Ortho-K (orthokeratology) offers a safe, non-surgical solution that not only corrects vision but also helps control the progression of myopia. In this guide, we’ll explore how Ortho-K works, its benefits for children, and how it can play a crucial role in managing myopia.

How Ortho-K Works for Myopia Control

Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight, which gently reshape the cornea. By temporarily flattening the cornea, Ortho-K corrects refractive errors such as myopia, allowing children to see clearly during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. More importantly, Ortho-K has been shown to slow down the progression of myopia in children, reducing the risk of serious vision problems later in life. Learn more about our Ortho-K services.

Why Myopia Control Is Important

Myopia typically worsens as children grow, particularly during their school years. High levels of myopia not only require stronger corrective lenses but also increase the risk of developing serious eye conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts. Myopia control treatments like Ortho-K can slow this progression, helping to safeguard a child’s long-term eye health.

The Benefits of Ortho-K for Children

Ortho-K offers several key advantages for children, making it a highly effective option for both vision correction and myopia control:

• Slows myopia progression: Studies have shown that Ortho-K significantly slows the worsening of myopia in children, reducing the need for stronger corrective lenses as they grow older.
• Non-surgical and safe: Unlike LASIK or other surgical options, Ortho-K is a non-invasive, reversible treatment. This makes it a safe choice for children and teenagers.
• Daytime freedom from glasses: Since Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight, children enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the hassle of glasses or daytime contacts.
• Increased confidence: Many children feel more confident without the need for glasses. Ortho-K allows them to participate in sports and other activities with greater ease.
• Custom-fitted lenses: Ortho-K lenses are custom-made for each child’s unique corneal shape, ensuring comfort and optimal vision correction.

Who is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?

Ortho-K is an excellent option for children and teenagers with progressive myopia. Your child may be a good candidate for Ortho-K if:

• 1. They have mild to moderate myopia (nearsightedness).
• 2. They are between the ages of 8 and 18, when myopia progression is most common.
• 3. They are motivated to wear lenses overnight and follow proper lens care instructions.

What to Expect During an Ortho-K Consultation

Before starting Ortho-K, your child will need a comprehensive eye exam to assess their vision and eye health. If your child is a good candidate, your optometrist will take precise measurements of the cornea to design custom-fitted Ortho-K lenses. Your optometrist will also provide guidance on how to wear and care for the lenses, as well as schedule follow-up appointments to monitor progress.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Most children experience clearer vision after the first night of wearing Ortho-K lenses, though it may take up to a week for the full effect. To maintain clear vision and continue controlling myopia, the lenses must be worn nightly.

Is Ortho-K Safe for Children?

Yes, Ortho-K is considered a safe and effective treatment for children. The lenses are made from gas-permeable materials, allowing oxygen to reach the cornea and keep the eyes healthy. When worn and cared for properly, the risk of complications is low. Ortho-K has been approved by the FDA for overnight wear, making it a trusted option for managing myopia in children.

How Ortho-K Compares to Other Myopia Control Options

In addition to Ortho-K, other myopia control treatments include specialized soft contact lenses and atropine eye drops. Each method has its own benefits, but Ortho-K stands out for its ability to provide both vision correction and myopia control without the need for glasses or daytime contacts. Your eye doctor can help you decide which option is best for your child based on their vision needs and lifestyle.

Book an Ortho-K Consultation at G&G Eye Doctors

If you’re interested in learning more about how Ortho-K can benefit your child, the team at G&G Eye Doctors is here to help. We specialize in Ortho-K and myopia control for children and teenagers, offering personalized care to help manage your child’s myopia. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how Ortho-K can help protect your child’s vision.