Orthokeratology
Better vision overnight
What is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology is a non-invasive procedure for the overnight correction of refractive errors. Here, the temporary correction is not performed by surgery, but by means of a specially fitted contact lens.
The basic idea of orthokeratology and thus the correction of refractive errors by changing the shape of the cornea, originated several centuries ago. An actual breakthrough was made in the 90s. Thanks to ever more advanced, oxygen-permeable and innovative materials, wearing contact lenses overnight is no longer a problem.
The fitting of orthokeratology contact lenses, or Ortho-K lenses for short, has now been officially approved in Germany since 2003.
The orthokeratology contact lens consists of a form-stable, firm material. At the same time, however, it offers a high oxygen permeability and thus ensures optimal care of the eye during the entire wearing period.
As with any contact lens it is important that the fitting is performed by trained personnel. We are also trained professionals in this field and perform the fitting of Ortho-K lenses.
Functionality of the Ortho-K lens
A contact lens floats on the natural tear film of the eye. Immediately behind the thin layer of tear fluid is the so-called cornea. It has different tissue layers, the outermost of which is very flexible and malleable. The Ortho-K lens takes advantage of these properties.
The orthokeratology contact lenses are inserted in the evening and worn overnight. The slight pressure exerted by the eyelids allows them to develop their effect. The centrally exerted pressure redistributes the tear fluid under the contact lens and at the same time creates suction. Thus, the cells of the flexible corneal layer begin to resettle. The center becomes flatter and the surrounding cells accumulate in the outer area. The entire process is painless for the wearer.
This gentle adjustment of the corneal shape changes the effect of the cornea on refractive error, and after repeated wear, clear vision is possible for up to 16 hours without additional correction.
For whom are Ortho-K lenses suitable?
Orthokeratology contact lenses are unfortunately not (yet) suitable for everyone. They are mainly used for myopia and can help you see well within a certain range of effectiveness based on the current state of technology. If you fall into this range, they offer more freedom to those who do not want to worry about their correction during the day.
Requirements for the use of Ortho-K lenses:
healthy eyes - no diseases of the cornea, conjunctiva or eyelid
no scarring of the cornea
refractive error up to about -6.00 dpt, astigmatism of maximum -2.50 dpt
regular sleep of at least 6 hours
conscious handling and hygiene
Minimum age of 8 years
Procedure of fitting and follow-up control
Since the fit of contact lenses when the eyelid is closed may be different from when the eye is open, checking the Ortho-K lenses is very important in the initial phase.
After we have determined whether you are suitable for wearing Ortho-K lenses, we take measurements of your eye. In the process, we determine several thousand individual measurement points and create a kind of map of your corneal surface. In order for these results to be as accurate as possible, it is important that you do not wear contact lenses for a few days before your appointment. This allows us to evaluate your eye in its natural form and to optimally adjust the Ortho-K lens.
Based on your measurements, custom lenses will then be made. At the drop-off appointment, you will wear the new contact lenses for the first time. One advantage of Ortho-K lenses: you can see sharply even with lenses on your eye! The contact lens takes into account your refractive error so that you can continue to see in the evening after insertion. Now that handling and care have been practiced, you can take your lenses home and wear them the first night.
The following morning, you will come back to us with the lenses on your eyes and we will look at the fit again. Then we will take the lens out and you can experience the effect of the Ortho-K lens for the first time. Good vision without contact lenses or glasses!
After a few nights, you will come back for a check-up so that we can check the development of your vision. Usually, after 14 days of wearing the lens, you can assume that your vision is consistently good throughout the day.
Even if your vision improves quickly, regular progress checks are very important. If possible, we will arrange a follow-up appointment directly during your visit to guarantee maximum wearing comfort and best vision with your Ortho-K lenses over a long period of time.