Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a non-surgical procedure that involves the wearing of a series of specially designed rigid contact lenses to progressively reshape the curvature of the cornea over time. The results of the painless procedure are not permanent; thus, retainer contact lenses must be worn periodically to maintain improvements made in vision. Ortho-K is used to treat low to moderate nearsightedness and low degrees of astigmatism.
Ortho-K, like LASIK, reshapes the cornea so light entering the eye is more accurately focused on the retina. Unlike LASIK, however, the corneal reshaping effect of Ortho-K is temporary — generally enough to eliminate your need for glasses or contacts for a day or so. Ortho-K lenses are typically worn at night while sleeping and are removed in the morning. Then you have to wear the Ortho-K lenses again to maintain the proper corneal shape.
The procedure works best on mild to moderate amounts of nearsightedness and/or astigmatism. More severe cases can have their vision improved, but will still need some vision compensation. The procedure also does not work well on certain shaped corneas or where the corneal tissue is not as bendable. The speed at which the vision improvement will be seen can vary from person to person.
