The Science Behind Ortho-K: How It Works to Reshape Your Vision

The Science Behind Ortho-K: How It Works to Reshape Your Vision

If you’re tired of wearing glasses or contact lenses during the day but aren’t quite ready for surgery, orthokeratology (Ortho-K) might be the perfect solution for you. This revolutionary, non-invasive vision correction method uses specially designed contact lenses to reshape your cornea overnight, giving you clear vision during the day.

What Is Ortho-K?

Ortho-K, also known as corneal refractive therapy (CRT), involves wearing gas-permeable lenses while you sleep. These lenses are custom-fitted to gently reshape the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of your eye. By temporarily altering the curvature of your cornea, Ortho-K lenses correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), astigmatism, and even some cases of farsightedness.

The result? Clear, sharp vision during waking hours without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.

The Science Behind Ortho-K

The magic of Ortho-K lies in its ability to reshape the corneal epithelium, a thin layer of cells on the surface of the cornea. Before starting Ortho-K, your eye doctor uses a corneal topographer to create a detailed map of your cornea’s shape. This ensures that your Ortho-K lenses are custom-designed to provide the most effective reshaping for your eyes.

The Ortho-K lenses are made from a highly breathable material that allows oxygen to reach your cornea even as they gently apply pressure to flatten the central corneal curve. This temporary reshaping redistributes the corneal cells, correcting the way light enters your eye and focuses on the retina.

When you wake up and remove the lenses, your cornea retains its reshaped structure for the day, providing clear vision without glasses or contact lenses. The effects typically last 24–48 hours, so consistent nightly wear is necessary to maintain the results.

One of the best aspects of Ortho-K is its non-invasive and reversible nature. If you decide to stop wearing Ortho-K lenses, your cornea will gradually return to its original shape, and your vision will revert to its previous state.

Who Should Consider Ortho-K?

Ortho-K is particularly popular among individuals who:

•          Have mild to moderate myopia or astigmatism

•          Want to avoid daytime contact lenses or glasses

•          Lead an active lifestyle or play sports where glasses can be inconvenient

•          Are children or adolescents seeking myopia management, as Ortho-K has been shown to slow the progression of nearsightedness

The Benefits of Ortho-K

•          Freedom from Glasses and Contacts: Enjoy the convenience of clear vision during the day without the need for corrective eyewear.

•          Non-Surgical Option: Unlike LASIK, Ortho-K is non-invasive and reversible.

•          Effective Myopia Control: For children, Ortho-K not only corrects vision but can also slow down the progression of myopia, reducing the risk of serious eye conditions later in life.

•          Improved Quality of Life: Whether you're swimming, hiking, or working long hours, Ortho-K offers unparalleled convenience.

Reshape Your Vision with Ortho-K at eye&I™

Ortho-K is a safe and effective vision correction method for people of all ages. During a comprehensive eye exam, we’ll evaluate your vision needs and corneal health to create a personalized treatment plan.

To learn more about Ortho-K and how it can reshape your vision, schedule a consultation with  eye&I™. Visit our office in Bayside, New York, or call (718) 279-2020 to book an appointment today.