Ortho-K Night Lenses: 7 Things You Need To Know

Orthokeratology lenses (also known as Ortho-K or OK) lenses are a non-invasive and non-surgical vision correction treatment for individuals with myopia, astigmatism, long-sightedness, and presbyopia. The treatment consists of wearing gas-permeable rigid contact lenses to sleep at night. This helps reshape the cornea overnight by applying gentle pressure, and over time can help to correct vision problems in users.
While Ortho-K lenses are a common vision correction treatment in Singapore, many people still have an incomplete understanding of how they work. Here are 7 frequently asked questions about Ortho-K lenses you should know:

1. Are Ortho-K lenses a new treatment for myopia?

Orthokeratology lenses are not a new or unfamiliar treatment for myopia, and can even treat other conditions such as astigmatism, long-sightedness, and presbyopia. They have been used for vision correction for over 20 years in Singapore and worldwide, and advances in technology have continued to improve the comfort and safety of these night lenses. Today, they are a more accessible option for individuals with a range of vision problems. Get in touch with EMME Visioncare's Singapore optometrists to start on your Ortho-K lenses journey.

2. Are Ortho-K lenses safe to use?

Orthokeratology lenses are a safe treatment for adults and children, but as with any other treatment there are still some associated risks. With proper and diligent care, these risks can be avoided and many users do not experience any side effects from the treatment. These are some steps users can take to minimize risk of infection:

• Like any other pair of contact lenses, Ortho-K lenses should be handled with clean hands.
• Ortho-K lenses are designed for night wear, and should not be worn in the day. The wearer should remove the lenses the moment they wake up.
• The lenses should be stored in the cleaning solution provided when not in use, to ensure they are safe for wear.

3. Are Ortho-K lenses uncomfortable to wear?

Orthokeratology lenses are personalised to each user to make them both comfortable and effective. Each pair of night lenses is customised to suit the individual wearer’s prescription. Ortho-K lenses are worn during sleep so you should not experience any discomfort, but saline eye drops can be used to relieve dryness in the eye if necessary.

4. Are Ortho-K lenses only for children?

Orthokeratology lenses are available for both adults and children. Children might be more likely to be recommended for the treatment as they are still developing, and it is one of the most common myopia control options for children.
However adults can also wear Ortho-K lenses. The lenses are suitable for individuals who want to correct their vision but have difficulty wearing contact lenses or glasses e.g. sensitive or allergy-prone eyes, or working in irritating or drying environments daily. Speak to us today about undergoing Ortho-K treatment in Singapore as an adult.

5. Are Ortho-K lenses effective for myopia?

Ortho-K lenses are considered one of the best treatments for myopia. There are various options for myopia correction but regular and proper wearing of these night lenses has been shown to have one of the best results. This may vary across individuals.

6. How long do Ortho-K lenses last?

Orthokeratology lenses can be used as a long-term method of vision control. Children prescribed these lenses typically wear them until their late teen or young adult years when their vision stabilizes. However, Ortho-K lenses are safe for long-term use with regular care and replacement of lenses to ensure optimal fit. Some wearers have even worn their lenses for over 20 years.

 7. Which optometrists in Singapore have Ortho-K lenses?

Not all optometrists in Singapore offer this treatment. Specialist training and technology is required to properly fit Ortho-K lenses for users. EMME Visioncare has the required specialist on our staff as well as the technology to offer orthokeratology treatment as a vision control and correction option.

Find out about our Ortho-K Lenses today

EMME Visioncare’s clinic has maintained a 100% safety record, with no incidence of serious complications in our Ortho-K clients. Reach out to us today for more information on orthokeratology treatments for you or your children.