Despite advancements in orthokeratology, some patients still express a little apprehension about the procedure involved. It can’t be denied that orthokeratology wasn’t as refined as it is now when it was first introduced in the 1960s. However, experts have come a long way to further develop the treatment and ensure its safety and reliability.
Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic, your local eye doctor, discusses three common misconceptions about orthokeratology and the facts that you should know about this eye treatment.
Orthokeratology Uses Pressure on the Cornea
The original concept for orthokeratology involved applying pressure to the cornea in order to fit the lenses. However, in modern ortho-k techniques, hydraulic forces beneath the contact lens are used to reshape the cornea — which is completely safe since the hydraulic forces mainly consist of natural fluids already found in your eyes. Moreover, the reshaping of the cornea is only temporary, and it’s done to improve your vision. When you remove the ortho-k lenses, your cornea will return to its original shape.
Orthokeratology Isn’t Worth the Trouble Since It’s Not a Permanent Solution
Since the cornea returns to its original shape — which means your vision goes back to its pre-orthokeratology condition — the treatment does not claim to be a permanent solution. However, many patients still find ortho-k a worthwhile option since it doesn’t require surgery to ensure clear daytime vision. That said, if you’re considering orthokeratology, make sure that you have the right expectations for the treatment. Talk to your eye doctor about the entire procedure as well as the pros and cons. This will help you and your doctor decide whether this non-surgical treatment suits your needs.
Ortho-K Fittings Are Complicated
Ortho-k fittings do take more time than regular contact lens fittings. However, the process isn’t as complicated as you probably think. Eye care professionals typically use a wavefront device to create an accurate representation of the surface of your eyes, which they use to ensure the right fit for your ortho-k lenses.
If you’re looking for a reputable eye doctor, Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic can provide you a range of quality eye care services. Call us at (425) 485-0430 or fill out our contact form to request an appointment. We serve patients in Redmond and Kirkland, WA.