Imagine putting in contact lenses at night, going to sleep, and waking up to clear vision—no glasses, daytime contacts, or surgery. It might sound futuristic, but this is precisely what ortho-k offers.
At Arlington Vision Source, we use advanced eye care technology for corneal mapping and precise lens fittings for adults and children to ensure they are comfortable and convenient for your lifestyle.
What is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, uses specially designed rigid gas-permeable lenses that gently reshape the surface of your cornea while you sleep. You remove the lenses in the morning and enjoy clear, natural vision all day. It’s primarily used to correct myopia (nearsightedness), but it can also help with astigmatism and, in some cases, presbyopia.
Ortho-k is a particularly attractive option for active adults, children with rapidly progressing myopia, or anyone not ready—or not interested—in surgical procedures like LASIK.
The Science Behind How Ortho-K Works
Ortho-k may sound simple, but it’s built on precise eye measurements and expert lens customization. Here’s a closer look at the technology behind it:
Custom Corneal Mapping
We use topography systems to create a detailed 3D map of your eye’s front surface. This helps us design lenses that match your corneal shape exactly.
Gentle Overnight Reshaping
The lenses apply slight pressure to flatten the cornea’s curvature. This temporary corneal reshaping redirects how light enters the eye, correcting your vision while you sleep.
No Daytime Wear
Once the cornea is reshaped, remove the orthokeratology lenses in the morning and experience clear vision throughout the day—no need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
The Benefits of Ortho-K
Whether you're a busy adult or a parent concerned about your child’s vision, ortho-k offers a long list of practical advantages:
- Non-surgical solution to correct vision
- Clear daytime vision without glasses or contacts
- Ideal for active lifestyles where glasses or lenses get in the way
- Myopia management for children to slow down worsening prescriptions
- Safe for children and those not eligible for LASIK
- Better night vision safety for athletes and drivers who prefer not to wear glasses in the evening
Is Ortho-K Right for You?
Ortho-k isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but it’s a perfect fit for many people. If you or your child has issues with glasses while playing sports, consider ortho-k. It may also help if you are unsure about surgery. Additionally, ortho-k can be a good option if your child's prescription changes frequently.
Orthokeratology vs. LASIK
If you're weighing your options for vision correction, both orthokeratology (ortho-k) and LASIK offer clear vision without daytime glasses or contacts—but they’re designed for very different needs.
Ortho-k is ideal if you’re looking for a non-surgical, low-risk option that fits into your daily routine. Ortho-k lenses are worn while you sleep and gently reshape your cornea overnight. You take them out in the morning and enjoy clear vision all day. It’s an excellent solution for myopia progression in children but also for active adults and anyone who isn’t ready—or eligible—for a permanent procedure.
LASIK, on the other hand, is a surgical option that permanently reshapes the cornea with a laser. While it can be a helpful long-term solution, it has surgical risks. It also needs recovery time and isn’t right for everyone. This is especially true for children and patients with certain corneal conditions.
So how do you choose? If you want clear vision and a safe, non-surgical option, ortho-k gives you flexibility and peace of mind, and want a permanent change, LASIK could be right for you. Just be sure you are comfortable with the risks of surgery.
Experience the Freedom of Ortho-K in Arlington—No Surgery Required
If you’re ready to experience clear vision without daytime contact lenses or eyeglasses, ortho-k might be the right fit. At Arlington Vision Source, we offer customized ortho-k fittings backed by advanced corneal imaging and years of experience treating both adults and children. If you are managing your child's myopia or seeking a safe alternative to LASIK, we are here to help you.
Schedule your appointment at one of our Arlington offices and wake up to a world that’s crisp, clear, and ready for you.