Our Redding Optometrist Offers Orthokeratology Technology
The staff here at Redding Eyecare Center is committed to serving our community with state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and manage common eye conditions. Among his many services and products, our Redding optometrist, Dr. Michael Young, is proud to provide orthokeratology treatment for his patients.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Explained: What Is It & How Does it Work?
Orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K, is an exciting type of treatment that can help temporarily correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness. Ortho-K involves the use of gas permeable contact lenses which are worn during sleep. These specialized lenses temporarily change the shape of your corneas, thereby correcting visual refracting errors. This allows a person to see clearly during the day—without having to wear glasses or contacts!
Results (which clinical studies have shown to be an average of 20/40 vision) typically last up to 24-48 hours and are best when the lenses are worn nightly. The risk of side effects is virtually nil, although some people may notice an increased sensitivity to glare, some blurry vision, or halos around bright lights until their eyes have fully adjusted to the therapy.
Who is Orthokeratology for?
Orthokeratology is generally most appropriate for people with mild to moderate nearsightedness (myopia), though it can be successful in people with mild cases of astigmatism, farsightedness (hyperopia), and age-related farsightedness (presbyopia). It can also help slow the progression of nearsightedness in children.
It’s an ideal treatment for anyone who doesn’t want to wear corrective eyewear during the day, whether due to aesthetic reasons, convenience, occupation, sports, or some other personal choice. People who aren’t eligible for LASIK eye surgery (e.g., too young or struggling with dry eye syndrome) may also benefit from Ortho-K therapy.
Contact Our Shasta County Eye Doctor to Schedule an Appointment
Interested in orthokeratology? Contact Redding Eyecare Center, serving the communities of Tehema, Trinity, and other areas in Shasta and Siskiyou counties. Our eye doctor can perform a thorough eye examination, measure your eyes, and prescribe you with your first pair of orthokeratology lenses if you’re deemed an appropriate candidate. People who require stronger prescriptions may need to wait up to 2+ weeks to see maximum results, although many of our patients see results in as little as 1 to 2 nights of use! So call us now at (530) 222-1233 or request an appointment online.