Ortho-K (Orthokeratology) Lenses
What Are Ortho-K Night Lenses?
Ortho-K lenses, also known as night-time contact lenses, are a safe and effective solution for vision improvement and myopia control for children to experience clearer vision without glasses/contact lenses during the day. Ortho-K can effectively slow the progression of myopia in children by approximately 50%.
Suitable for adults and children in Singapore, orthokeratology means the freedom to participate fully in sports and activities where glasses or contact lenses might be inconvenient.
Wondering if Ortho-K lenses are for you? Come in for a consultation! We'll check your eyes and explain how orthokeratology can give you and your child the freedom from glasses or contact lenses.
How Does Ortho-K Lenses Work?
Orthokeratology is a procedure aimed at vision improvement that uses specially designed lenses to reshape the cornea while you sleep. Here’s a closer look at how the process works:
Corneal Mapping: The process of designing Ortho-K lenses begins with corneal mapping, where we use a corneal topographer to create a detailed view of its shape and curvature.
Lens Design: Based on the corneal map, we design rigid, gas-permeable lenses that are safe for overnight use and designed to gently reshape the cornea. These lenses can help improve the cornea’s refractive properties and reduce the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
Overnight Wear: You wear contact lenses while you sleep, allowing your cornea to reshape throughout the night. This overnight process is comfortable and non-invasive. When you remove them in the morning, you’ll enjoy clear vision during the day time.
Benefits of Ortho-K Lenses
- Healthy Eye Habits: Adopting healthy eye habits is essential for maintaining good vision, and Ortho-K can help in this regard. Clinical studies show that Ortho-K can effectively slow the progression of myopia in children by approximately 50%, making it a great option for myopia control. Additionally, using Ortho-K lenses eliminates the risk of glasses breaking or contacts dislodging during sports and other activities, reducing the likelihood of eye injuries. Moreover, the daily lens cleaning routine associated with Ortho-K fosters proper eye hygiene, promoting overall eye health.
- Freedom and Convenience: With Ortho-K lenses, you can enjoy newfound freedom and convenience in your daily activities. Say goodbye to fumbling with glasses or worrying about losing contacts, whether you’re playing sports, swimming, camping, or dancing, you can engage in hassle-free fun. Experience clear vision anytime, anywhere; wake up ready to go, whether it’s for an early morning run or a spontaneous adventure. Additionally, using Ortho-K lenses could reduce your reliance on corrective eyewear, allowing you to embrace a more natural look and feel confident without glasses obstructing your view.
- Enhanced Performance and Confidence: Ortho-K lenses can help enhance your performance and confidence, particularly in sports and physical activities. With no worries about glasses falling off or contacts drying out, you can try to use your full potential on the field or in the gym. Additionally, going without glasses can boost your self-esteem, allowing you to feel more comfortable and confident in your appearance. Ortho-K lenses also provide a wider field of view, giving you unrestricted peripheral vision that helps improve depth perception and situational awareness.
Who is Suitable for Ortho-K Lenses?
Individuals Managing Myopia: Those with mild to rapidly progressive myopia (with or without mild astigmatism) can be potential candidates for Ortho-K lenses. The ideal age for managing myopia in children is between 6 and 12 years when progression is most pronounced.
Those Seeking Freedom from Glasses: Children and adults in Singapore looking to live without glasses can benefit from Ortho-K lenses. This option is particularly suitable for individuals who are not eligible for LASIK or have other reasons to avoid traditional corrective eyewear.
Active Individuals and Those in Challenging Environments: Sporty individuals or people working in dusty environments may find Ortho-K lenses particularly useful, as they offer clear vision without the discomfort or complications of regular contact lenses.
Comparison of Ortho-K Lenses
Ortho-K vs Glasses
Pros:
Glasses: Affordable, easily accessible, no surgery required.
Ortho-K: No need for glasses all day, convenient for active lifestyles, significantly slows myopia progression for children.
Cons:
Glasses: Can be inconvenient during sports or activities, may get lost or damaged, and can restrict peripheral vision.
Ortho-K: Requires more care and hygiene compared to glasses, initial cost can be higher, requires overnight lens wear.
Ortho-K vs Soft Contact Lenses
Pros:
Soft contacts: Convenient for all-day wear, readily available, and a wide range of brands and types to choose from.
Ortho-K: No need for contacts during the day; significantly slows myopia progression for children.
Cons:
Soft contacts: Need regular cleaning and replacement, risk of eye infections, can dry out during activities.
Ortho-K: Requires more care and hygiene compared to soft contacts, the initial cost can be higher, and requires overnight lens wear.
Ortho-K vs Surgeries (e.g. Lasik)
Pros:
LASIK/PRK: Permanent vision improvement, no need for glasses or contacts after surgery.
Ortho-K: Reversible procedure, significantly slows myopia progression for children.
Cons:
LASIK/PRK: Surgery carries risks and potential side effects e.g. dry eyes, not suitable for everyone, can be expensive.
Ortho-K: Not a permanent solution, requires ongoing lens care and monitoring, not suitable for all eye conditions
Who can use Ortho-K?
Suitable for adults and children as young as 6 years old in Singapore, Ortho-K means the freedom to participate fully where glasses or contact lenses might be inconvenient e.g. swimming, ballet, tennis, archery, or activities that require goggles. Imagine the freedom to take up water sports or shower without blur vision! Plus, Ortho-K controls myopia.
Wondering if Ortho-K lenses are suitable for you?
Come in for an Ortho-K consultation! We'll check your eyes and explain how orthokeratology can give you and your child the freedom from glasses or contact lenses to maximise your quality of life.
Even if you have no experience with contact lenses, we are confident we can help you master wearing Ortho-K contact lenses. With our guidance, you’ll be inserting, removing, and caring for your Ortho-K lenses in no time.
Top 3 Reasons to Choose Ortho-K
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Slow Myopia Progression with Ease
Clinical studies conclude that Ortho-K can effectively slow the progression of myopia in children by approximately 50%. Working while asleep, Ortho-K removes the struggles of day-time compliance that other myopia control methods require, increasing its relative effectiveness
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Freedom & Hassle-free Convenience
Imagine the freedom from glasses or daily contact lenses. That's Ortho-K. Enjoy what you do with clear vision anytime, anywhere. No more hassles of handling glasses or contacts during activities; The days of broken glasses or dislodged contact lenses are over.
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Performance & Confidence
Unlock your full potential in sports and daily life with Ortho-K. Say goodbye to the distractions from glasses slipping or contact lenses drying eyes — experience the clear, wide field of view with greater confidence, every day.
Prices for Ortho-K Lenses in Singapore
The cost of Ortho-K lenses in Singapore varies based on several factors, which we can assess during your examination. Generally, prices start from around S$2,000 for an annual package.
Book an Appointment
Ready to take the next step to enhance your vision with Ortho-K lenses? Schedule your appointment today to receive guidance from our optometrist in Singapore and personalised care tailored to your needs.
Safety and Considerations
Safety: Ortho-K is generally safe when proper hygiene is maintained, similar to that of normal contact lens use. Our Ortho-K lenses are FDA- and HSA-approved, made from high-quality, breathable materials designed to fit comfortably. Regular check-ups with an optometrist are essential for monitoring progress and addressing any concerns promptly.
Note: DO NOT sleep with your regular contact lens! Ortho-K lenses are specially designed for overnight use and are FDA/HSA approved; Ortho-K is different from normal contact lenses!
Infection Risk: Like all contact lenses, Ortho-K lenses carry a risk of infection, especially if not properly cared for. Infection risk is low with proper hygiene, so it’s crucial to follow your optometrist's instructions for cleaning and handling.
Regular Monitoring: Continuous use and regular visits to your optometrist are required to maintain vision improvement and monitor eye health, mitigating risks with proper guidance. Your child's optometrist will closely track any changes to ensure optimal results and mitigate risks with proper guidance.
Comfort and Usage: Ortho-K lenses are designed for comfort and convenience. They are inserted before sleeping and feel similar to regular contact lenses upon removal. These lenses are specifically designed to wear during night time, allowing your children to enjoy clear vision throughout the day. However, not all children are suitable candidates for Ortho-K. Your optometrist will conduct a thorough assessment of your child's eyes and individual needs to determine if this is right for them. Moreover, if a lens is lost, contact your optometrist immediately for a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ortho-K Lenses
Is orthokeratology lenses safe?
Yes, orthokeratology lenses are safe when used properly. Our lenses are FDA- and HSA-approved, made from high-quality, breathable materials. However, you still need to follow your optometrist's hygiene and care instructions to minimise risks, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.
Are Ortho-K lenses worth it?
Yes, Ortho-K lenses can be good for many individuals, especially children. These myopia control lensesoffer a non-surgical solution for controlling myopia, enhancing vision without the need for daytime glasses or contacts. The convenience of overnight wear and the potential to slow down vision deterioration make them a valuable investment in eye health.
How long does an Ortho-K lens last?
Ortho-K lenses typically last one year with proper care. Their lifespan depends on factors like maintenance, usage, and individual eye health. Regular check-ups with your optometrist are essential to monitor the condition of the lenses and ensure optimal performance throughout their lifespan.
Is Ortho-K permanent or temporary?
Ortho-K is a temporary approach to reshaping the cornea that helps enhance vision. The effects last as long as the lenses are worn regularly overnight. After removing the Ortho-K lenses, improved vision is generally noticed for 24 to 72 hours. Regular use is necessary to maintain clear vision without glasses or contacts during the day.
Can adults use Ortho-K?
Yes, most definitely. Ortho-K lenses are suitable for adults and can significantly improve their vision.
Our orthokeratologist will share some important considerations such as compliance, eye health and many more during the consultation, and the difference in expectations as the changes to the cornea may be less permanent than in children. Adults may need periodic “touch-ups” to maintain optimal vision.
The best way to determine if Ortho-K is right for you is to consult with an orthokeratologist like Amanda. She will assess your individual needs, expectations, and suitability for the care you receive.
Come in for a consultation! We'll check your eyes and explain how Ortho-K can give you the gift of clear vision without glasses!
Can children wear Ortho-K lenses?
Yes, children can wear Ortho-K lenses. Clinical studies show they can significantly slow myopia progression by about 50%. Additionally, they reduce the risk of eye injuries from broken glasses or dislodged contacts during activities. The daily cleaning routine also promotes proper eye hygiene, fostering healthy habits for overall eye health.
Can Ortho-K help with astigmatism?
Yes, Ortho-K lenses can help individuals with mild to moderate astigmatism. They reshape the cornea while sleeping, improving overall vision quality. Individuals with mild and rapidly progressive myopia, with or without mild astigmatism, up to -8.00Ds of myopia and -2.00Ds of astigmatism, may be suitable for Ortho-K lenses. An eye examination is required before we can recommendcontact lenses for astigmatism.
Do I need regular check-ups while using Ortho-K lenses?
Yes, regular check-ups are essential while using Ortho-K lenses. These appointments allow your optometrist to monitor eye health, ensure proper lens fit, and assess the effectiveness of lenses.
Does orthokeratology slow down myopia progression?
Yes, orthokeratology significantly slows down myopia progression. Clinical studies indicate that it can reduce the rate of myopia worsening by approximately 50% in children. By reshaping the cornea overnight, Ortho-K lenses help control the elongation of the eyeball, which is a key factor in myopia progression.
What are some tips for healthy vision?
Maintaining a healthy diet: Certain nutrients are essential for eye health.
Protecting your eyes from UV rays: Wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
Practicing good digital hygiene: Take breaks from screens to prevent eye strain.
Giving your eyes a break: Look away from screens frequently and focus on distant objects.
Getting enough sleep: Allow your eyes to rest and recharge.
Get regular comprehensive eye exams: A comprehensive eye exam reviews the front, back, and pressure of your eyes, in addition to your vision. Early detection of any potential eye problems is crucial for proper eye care and maintaining good vision throughout your life. Certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma, may result in irreversible vision loss if detected and treated too late.