AT SIGHT in West Hartford and Farmington, we offer orthokeratology (ortho-k) for patients who want to avoid wearing contact lenses or eyeglasses during the day or who would like a non-surgical alternative to LASIK.    

What is orthokeratology?    

With orthokeratology (ortho-k) contact lenses, you can wake up and see clearly. During ortho-k treatment, rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses are worn while you sleep, which reshape your cornea. These lenses apply gentle pressure to the cornea, correcting any vision problems such as: 

• Nearsightedness 
• Astigmatism 
• Low levels of farsightedness and presbyopia 

The lenses are removed in the morning, leaving you with clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or contacts. The FDA-approved treatment is non-invasive and non-surgical, providing a safe and effective option for those seeking to improve their vision. 

As patients wear the lenses every night, their vision gradually improves, starting with clear vision for a few hours on the first night and eventually reaching clear vision throughout the day. The maximum effect is typically seen between two to four weeks of therapy, depending on the strength of the prescription and the corneal rigidity of each individual. Upon reaching optimal levels, a second pair of lenses is used (like wearing a retainer after braces). Most patients achieve the best visual results by wearing the lenses every night, although some can maintain clear vision by wearing them 2-3 times per week. 

Who is a good candidate for orthokeratology?     

Ortho-k lenses may be a good option for those with mild to moderate nearsightedness or astigmatism. They may also be a good option for individuals who are not candidates for LASIK surgery or those who prefer not to undergo surgery.  

While orthokeratology is ideal for patients of all ages with myopia, children aged 8-12 with progressive myopia (nearsightedness which gets worse every year) may especially benefit from orthokeratology. In fact, research shows that this therapy can decrease the progression of nearsightedness in young children if treated early. 

At SIGHT, we carefully evaluate and fit patients for orthokeratology lenses, considering their eye health concerns.   

What are the benefits of orthokeratology?    

Orthokeratology will correct vision for near and far tasks, such as watching TV or reading a book, without the need for daytime use of eyeglasses or contact lenses. It is also an ideal treatment for athletes, who appreciate freedom from the daytime use of eyeglasses or contact lenses while they train and engage in their sport.   

Unlike LASIK, our eye doctor can adjust ortho-k lenses as your prescription changes with time, allowing the therapy to continue to meet your ever-changing visual needs from year to year.  

Learn more about orthokeratology    

Imagine the freedom of not needing to wear glasses or contact lenses for day-to-day activities and sports! To learn more about orthokeratology, book an appointment at SIGHT for a comprehensive eye exam. Ask about orthokeratology and our staff can help you determine if it may be a good choice for you.