Orthokeratology is the use of contact lenses to mould the shape of the cornea to reduce or correct myopic (short sighted) errors of the eye.

In some ways it is similar to the use of dental braces by an orthodontist to straighten crooked teeth. The main difference is that if a tooth position is corrected for some months it will usually stay in the new position. The cornea is highly elastic however, and always returns to its original shape. For this reason retainer lenses are worn several nights per week even after the ideal corneal shape has been achieved.

Why Have Ortho-K Done?

The main purpose of Ortho-K is to be free of both contact lenses and spectacles for all waking hours.

Whilst this is ideal for sportsmen, swimmers or those who work in dusty or dirty environments, the freedom from any optical correction appeals to other myopic spectacle and contact lens wearers. School age children benefit greatly for example.

Night Therapy - The Most Common Application

For those it is possible to go straight to night therapy. This gives a fast and easy way of arriving at myopia correction.

Does Ortho-K Have Any Advantages Over Excimer Laser Surgery?

Yes. Ortho-K costs less and is a reversible procedure. As well it is more appropriate for people whose eyes are still changing.

Lenses are inserted before going to sleep and removed in the morning. As the therapy progresses and the cornea is moulded, the lenses give good unaided vision for longer periods of time. Gradually the lens wearing time may be decreased to a level which gives the desired reduction in myopia.

Is Everyone Suitable for Ortho-K?

No. Only lower levels of shortsightedness can be corrected with Ortho-K (up to about 4.0 dioptres).

Individual corneal shape and rigidity will determine the results achieved. While the success rate is very high, success cannot be guaranteed.

Your optometrist will examine your eyes and then discuss your personal suitability for this treatment.

Lost Lenses

Lenses lost during the fitting period are charged at a reduced cost.

Lenses used in the corneal reshaping theray period must be returned when the change to the new fitting lenses is made.

In the event of a lost lens the cornea will tend to return to its original shape. In this situation we may be able to loan a lens. Once successful long term retainer wear is reached you are strongly advised to obtain a spare pair of retainer lenses.

Fees & Charges

The preliminary examination charge is that set by Medicare. You will be able to claim some of this back. There is also a $40 charge for corneal topography. A technology that allows us to map the shape of the cornea. This is very important because, in OrthoK, we change the shape of the cornea.

The diagnostic fitting and overnight wear of trial lenses is $250. Then the subsequent fee if the fitting proceeds is $1,450. This is paid as $700 when your initial lenses are collected and $250 for each of the next three visits.

In the event of unsuccessful therapy or if you decide to withdraw from treatment, the subsequent monthly payments are not made. (The first 50% of the total fee remains non-refundable).

After Care

As with any contact lens wear it is vital to ensure the health and integrity of the cornea at all stages. Over the first year many visits are involved. After the initial therapy an examination twice a year is considered essential to ensure ongoing safety of the eyes and good vision.

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