How Does Ortho-K Manage Myopia in Kids?

With the increasing use of screens and more time spent indoors, myopia is becoming more common in children. Fortunately, there’s an effective treatment available: orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K. At Local Eyes Optometry, we are proud to offer Ortho-K lenses as a solution for managing myopia in kids.

What is Ortho-K?

Ortho-K refers to specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses that are worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, temporarily correcting the eye's focusing power. In the morning, the lenses are removed, and your child can enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contacts.

Ortho-K is an ideal option for children because it doesn’t require surgery, and it provides freedom from glasses or contact lenses during the day—perfect for active kids who enjoy sports and outdoor activities.

How Does Ortho-K Help Manage Myopia?

Myopia occurs when the eyeball becomes too elongated, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This leads to blurry distance vision. What makes Ortho-K particularly beneficial for kids is that it not only corrects vision but also helps to slow down the progression of myopia.

While your child wears Ortho-K lenses at night, the lenses apply gentle pressure to flatten the cornea. This reshaping helps light focus properly on the retina, correcting nearsightedness by morning. The effect typically lasts all day, so your child can see clearly without additional correction.

Research has shown that Ortho-K can reduce the rate of myopia progression in children by slowing down the eyeball’s elongation. This is crucial because higher levels of myopia are associated with an increased risk of serious eye problems later in life, such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts. By managing myopia early with Ortho-K, you can help protect your child’s long-term eye health.

Why Choose Ortho-K for Kids?

There are several reasons why Ortho-K is a great choice for children dealing with myopia:

• Non-Surgical & Safe: Unlike corrective surgeries like LASIK, Ortho-K is non-invasive and reversible. The lenses are FDA-approved and have a long history of safe use.

• Freedom from Glasses & Daytime Contacts: Since the lenses are worn at night, your child doesn’t have to deal with the hassle of glasses or contact lenses during the day. This can improve their confidence, especially during activities like sports or swimming.

• Better Vision Control: Since Ortho-K reshapes the cornea overnight, it provides clear vision during the day without relying on eyewear, giving children more freedom and comfort in their daily lives.

• Long-Term Benefits: By slowing the progression of myopia, Ortho-K can reduce the risk of developing more serious vision problems in adulthood.

What to Expect with Ortho-K

The process of getting Ortho-K lenses at Local Eyes Optometry is simple. After a comprehensive eye exam, we will determine if your child is a good candidate for Ortho-K. Then, custom lenses will be designed specifically for your child’s eyes. It may take a few days to a couple of weeks for your child’s vision to stabilize after starting Ortho-K, but once it does, they should experience clear vision during the day.

Regular follow-up appointments are essential to ensure the lenses continue to work effectively and that your child’s myopia is being managed properly.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam with Local Eyes Optometry Today

Ortho-K is an excellent option for many children with myopia, particularly those who are active and prefer not to wear glasses or daytime contact lenses. By taking action early, you can help protect your child’s vision and give them the freedom to enjoy life without the limitations of nearsightedness.

If you’re concerned about your child’s myopia progression, schedule a consultation with Local Eyes Optometry to determine if Ortho-K is the right solution for your child. Contact our office in New Braunfels, Texas, by calling our optometrist at (830) 627-9272 to book an appointment today.