Ortho-K Care Guide: Comprehensive Tips for Optimal Results

Ortho-K Care Guide

Orthokeratology, commonly referred to as Ortho-K, is a revolutionary approach to vision correction that doesn't involve surgery. Instead, specially designed contact lenses are worn overnight to reshape the cornea, allowing for clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to care for your Ortho-K lenses to ensure optimal results and maintain eye health.

Table of Contents

• Key Takeaways
• Understanding Ortho-K
• Proper Handling and Cleaning
• Insertion and Removal Techniques
• Potential Issues and Solutions
• Follow-Up Care and Maintenance
• Risk and Precautions

Key Takeaways

• Always wash and rinse your hands before handling lenses.
• Never use tap water on the lenses or their case.
• Consistent cleaning and maintenance are crucial for optimal results.
• Follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring and success.
• Replace lenses every 12 months for best results.

Understanding Ortho-K

Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, is a groundbreaking approach in the realm of vision correction. Unlike traditional methods that rely on glasses or surgery, Ortho-K offers a unique, non-invasive solution to address refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

How Does Ortho-K Work?

Ortho-K lenses are specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses. When worn overnight, these lenses apply a controlled and precise shape to the cornea, the eye's front surface. This reshaping process corrects the way light enters the eye, leading to clear vision during the daytime. The beauty of this method is that it eliminates the need for daytime glasses or contact lenses.

However, it's essential to understand that the corneal reshaping effects of Ortho-K are reversible. This means that to maintain clear vision, the lenses must be worn consistently every night. Over time, without regular wear, the cornea will revert to its original shape, and the refractive error will return.

Who Can Benefit from Ortho-K?

Ortho-K is suitable for individuals of all ages, especially those:

• Who are involved in sports or other activities where glasses or contact lenses may be inconvenient.
• Who cannot undergo LASIK or other refractive surgeries due to certain conditions or age restrictions.
• Who have progressive myopia. Ortho-K can slow down the progression of nearsightedness in children.

The Ortho-K Fitting Process

Opting for Ortho-K involves a specialized fitting process. It starts with a comprehensive eye examination, followed by corneal topography, a procedure that maps the surface of the cornea. This map assists optometrists in designing a custom-fit lens for the individual. Once the lenses are ready, there's a period of adjustment and regular follow-ups to ensure optimal fit and vision correction.

For a visual representation and deeper insights into Ortho-K, consider watching this informative video: https://aaomc.org/what-is-orthokeratology/.

For those keen on exploring Ortho-K as a vision correction alternative, it's crucial to understand every facet of the process. From determining Who is Ortho-K for? to understanding the intricate science of How does Ortho-K work?, and the detailed process of fitting Ortho-K lenses, a comprehensive overview ensures you make an informed decision.

Proper Handling and Cleaning

Ortho-K lenses, like all contact lenses, require meticulous care to ensure their longevity and to maintain the health of your eyes. Proper handling and cleaning are paramount to prevent infections and ensure the effectiveness of the lenses. Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure you're taking the best care of your Ortho-K lenses:

1. Hand Hygiene:

• Wash Your Hands Thoroughly: Before touching your lenses, always wash your hands with a mild soap. Avoid soaps that contain moisturizers, perfumes, or any oil-based substances as these can transfer to the lens and irritate your eyes.

• Dry Your Hands Properly: Use a lint-free towel to dry your hands. This ensures that no residue or tiny fibers are transferred to the lenses.

• Avoid Hand Creams and Lotions: Before handling your lenses, ensure you haven't recently applied any hand creams or lotions. These can leave a residue on the lens.

2. Lens Handling:

• Use a Clean Surface: When placing your lenses out, ensure the surface is clean and dry. This minimizes the risk of lens contamination.

• Be Gentle: Ortho-K lenses are durable, but they can still get damaged with rough handling. Always be gentle when picking them up or setting them down.

3. Cleaning and Storing:

• Avoid Tap Water: Never rinse your Ortho-K lenses or their case with tap water. Tap water can contain microorganisms that can lead to severe eye infections. Always use the recommended lens solution.

• Use Fresh Solution: Always use fresh lens solution when storing your lenses. Reusing or topping off old solution can reduce its disinfecting power.

• Clean the Lens Case: Regularly clean your lens case with the recommended solution and let it air dry. Replace the lens case every three months or as advised by your optometrist.

• Follow Manufacturer's Instructions: Always follow the cleaning and storing instructions provided by the lens manufacturer or your optometrist. This ensures the lenses remain in optimal condition.

4. Regular Check-ups:

• Visit Your Optometrist: Regular check-ups with your optometrist ensure that your eyes remain healthy and that the lenses are in good condition.

For a visual guide on cleaning and maintaining your Ortho-K lenses, watch this detailed tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9Cdo5xoLI8. This video provides step-by-step instructions, ensuring you get the most out of your Ortho-K experience.

Cleaning Solutions

Maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of Ortho-K lenses is paramount for ensuring their effectiveness and the health of your eyes. Over time, lenses can accumulate deposits, proteins, and other residues that can impair vision and cause discomfort. Therefore, using the right cleaning solution is crucial. Here's a comprehensive look at the various cleaning solutions available for Ortho-K lenses:

1. Peroxide-Based Systems:

Example: Hidro Health H₂O₂ / AO Sept / Oxysept

• How They Work: Peroxide-based cleaning solutions, like AO Sept, Oxysept & Hidro Health H₂O₂, use hydrogen peroxide to deeply cleanse and disinfect contact lenses. The effervescence of hydrogen peroxide effectively removes microorganisms, proteins, and lipids from the lens surface.

• Neutralization Process: After the lenses are soaked in the solution, it's essential to neutralize the hydrogen peroxide to avoid eye irritation. This is typically done using a special case that comes with the solution, which contains a platinum disc or tablet Over several hours, the disc or tablet catalytically neutralizes the hydrogen peroxide into harmless water and oxygen, making the lenses safe to wear.

• Benefits: These solutions offer deep cleaning and high disinfection levels, making them ideal for those with sensitive eyes or those prone to deposits on their lenses.

2. Multipurpose Rigid Lens Solutions:

Examples: Hidro Health RGP, Menicare and Boston Conditioning Solution

• Purpose: As the name suggests, multipurpose solutions are designed to perform multiple tasks: cleaning, disinfecting, rinsing, and conditioning the lenses. They are specifically formulated for rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, which include Ortho-K lenses.

• How They Work: These solutions contain surfactants that help remove deposits and debris from the lens surface. They also contain disinfectants to kill harmful microorganisms.

• Benefits: Multipurpose solutions offer the convenience of a one-bottle system, eliminating the need for multiple products. They also condition and hydrate the lenses, ensuring comfort upon insertion.

3. Protein Removal Products:

Example: Hidro Enzymatic Tablet / Progent

• Why It's Needed: Over time, proteins from our tears can accumulate on the lens surface. These deposits can cause blurred vision, discomfort, and even increase the risk of eye infections.

• How It Works: Protein removal products, like Enzymatic tablet or Progent, contain enzymes that break down and remove protein deposits from the lenses. They are typically used in conjunction with regular cleaning solutions.

• Usage: While daily cleaning can remove some protein deposits, a deeper enzymatic clean is recommended at least once every two weeks or as advised by your optometrist.

Choosing the right cleaning solution for your Ortho-K lenses is essential for maintaining lens clarity, comfort, and overall eye health. Always follow your optometrist's recommendations and the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Insertion and Removal Techniques

Handling Ortho-K lenses with care and precision is crucial for both the longevity of the lenses and the health of your eyes. Inserting and removing these lenses might seem daunting initially, but with practice and a consistent routine, it becomes second nature. Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure you're handling your Ortho-K lenses correctly:

1. Preparing for Insertion:

• Clean Environment: Always ensure you're in a clean environment, free from dust and airborne particles. This minimizes the risk of contaminating your lenses.

• Hand Hygiene: Before handling your lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with a mild soap, ensuring all residues are rinsed off. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel.

• Lens Preparation: Ensure the lenses are clean, free from debris, and are not inside out. A simple way to check is to place the lens on the tip of your finger and look at its profile. It should form a perfect bowl shape.

2. Lens Insertion:

• Distinguish the Lenses: Ortho-K lenses are typically color-coded for easy identification. The right lens is usually marked with a purple or green tint, while the left lens has a blue tint. Always start with the right lens to maintain consistency.

• Controlled Environment: It's advisable to be in a controlled environment, like a bathroom. Plugging the sink is a precautionary measure to prevent the lens from going down the drain if dropped.

• Insertion Technique:

  1. Using your non-dominant hand, hold your upper eyelid to prevent blinking.
  2. With your dominant hand, place the lens on the tip of your index finger.
  3. Use the middle finger of the dominant hand to pull down your lower eyelid.
  4. Look upwards and gently place the lens on the dark surface of your eye.
  5. Release the eyelids slowly and blink a few times to center the lens.

3. Lens Removal:

• Removal Technique:
  1. Wash and dry your hands as mentioned above.
  2. Stand over a flat, clean surface or a plugged sink.
  3. Look ahead, using your non-dominant hand to hold your upper eyelid.
  4. With your dominant hand, gently use a suction removal tool and place it in the centre of the lens.
  5. Gently remove the lens away from your eye together with the suction removal tool.

For a visual demonstration and additional tips on the insertion process, consider watching this step-by-step tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8Irp_epk7U.

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you familiarize yourself with the process, the easier and quicker it becomes. Always ensure your lenses are clean, stored correctly, and replaced as recommended by your optometrist.

Potential Issues and Solutions

Ortho-K lenses, while revolutionary in their design and function, can sometimes present wearers with challenges. It's essential to be aware of potential issues and know how to address them to ensure both the effectiveness of the lenses and the health of your eyes. Here's a detailed look at some common challenges and their solutions:

1. Lens Discomfort:

Symptoms:

• A gritty or scratchy feeling, as if there's something in your eye.
• A burning or stinging sensation.
• Excessive tearing or watery eyes.

Solutions:

• Check for Debris: Remove the lens and inspect it for any debris or damage. Clean and rinse the lens thoroughly before reinserting.
• Ensure Proper Lens Placement: A lens that isn't centered correctly can cause discomfort. If the lens is off-center, blink several times to try and reposition it. If that doesn't work, remove and reinsert the lens.
• Use Lubricating Drops: Consider using preservative-free lubricating eye drops to alleviate minor discomfort.

2. Lens Binding:

Symptoms:

• The lens feels "stuck" to the eye and doesn't move freely.
• Difficulty in removing the lens.

Solutions:

• Do Not Force Removal: If a lens feels bound to the eye, never try to force it out. This can cause injury.
• Apply Gentle Pressure: To unbind a lens, look in the mirror and gently apply pressure using your fingertip to the white part of your eye (sclera) at the edge of the cornea. This gentle push can help dislodge the lens.
• Use Saline or Rewetting Drops: Applying a few drops can help lubricate the lens, making it easier to move and remove.

3. Red or Irritated Eyes:

Symptoms:

• Redness in one or both eyes.
• Swelling or inflammation.
• Pain or a throbbing sensation.

Solutions:

• Remove Lenses Immediately: If you experience any of these symptoms, remove your Ortho-K lenses right away.
• Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing can exacerbate the irritation.
• Consult Your Optometrist: Persistent redness or pain is a sign that something might be wrong. It's essential to consult with your Optometrist or eye care professional to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.

While Ortho-K lenses offer numerous benefits, like all contact lenses, they come with potential challenges. Being informed and proactive in addressing any issues ensures a comfortable and effective Ortho-K experience. Always prioritize the health of your eyes and consult with your Optometrist if you have any concerns or persistent issues.

Follow-Up Care and Maintenance

Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a transformative approach to vision correction. However, its success doesn't solely rely on the initial fitting and adaptation. Continuous care, regular follow-ups, and diligent maintenance play pivotal roles in ensuring the treatment's effectiveness and the health of your eyes. Here's a comprehensive look at the significance of follow-up care and the maintenance of Ortho-K lenses:

1. The Role of Follow-Up Appointments:

• Monitoring Treatment Progress: The primary purpose of follow-up visits is to track the progress of your Ortho-K treatment. This includes assessing how well the lenses are reshaping your cornea and how effectively they're correcting your vision.

• Ensuring Lens Fit: Over time, the shape of your cornea can change, especially during the initial stages of Ortho-K treatment. Regular check-ups ensure that the lenses still fit correctly and are providing optimal vision correction.

• Eye Health Assessment: Your optometrist will examine the health of your eyes, checking for any signs of infections, inflammations, or other complications that might arise from wearing Ortho-K lenses.

2. Frequency of Follow-Up Visits:

• Initial Stages: In the early stages of Ortho-K treatment, follow-up visits might be more frequent. It's common to have a check-up a day after the initial fitting, followed by weekly or bi-weekly appointments for the first month.

• Long-Term Monitoring: As you adapt to the lenses and your vision stabilizes, the frequency of visits will decrease. Typically, after the initial adaptation phase, you might have follow-up appointments every three to six months.

3. Importance of Maintenance:

• Lens Care: Regular cleaning, disinfecting, and proper storage of Ortho-K lenses are crucial. This ensures the lenses remain free from protein deposits, bacteria, and other contaminants that can impair vision and harm the eyes.

• Regular Replacement: Like all contact lenses, Ortho-K lenses have a lifespan. Depending on the type and brand, they might need replacement annually or as advised by your optometrist.

• Stay Updated: As with any medical field, advancements in Ortho-K are continuous. Regular visits allow you to stay updated on the latest care techniques, products, and technologies.

In conclusion, while Ortho-K offers a non-surgical, reversible approach to vision correction, its success hinges on consistent care and regular monitoring. Adhering to follow-up schedules and maintaining your lenses ensures you reap the full benefits of the treatment while safeguarding the health of your eyes. Always prioritize these appointments and communicate any concerns or changes in your vision to your Optometrist.

Risk and Precautions

Orthokeratology, commonly referred to as Ortho-K, is a revolutionary approach to vision correction. However, like all medical treatments, it comes with its set of risks and precautions. Being informed about these aspects ensures a safe and effective Ortho-K experience. Here's a comprehensive overview of the potential risks associated with Ortho-K lenses and the precautions one should take:

1. Risks Associated with Ortho-K Lenses:

• Lens Breakage: Ortho-K lenses are crafted from a durable polymer material. However, they are not indestructible. Mishandling, dropping, or applying excessive force can lead to cracks or breaks in the lens.

• Eye Infections: Improper cleaning or storing of Ortho-K lenses can introduce bacteria or other pathogens to the eyes, leading to infections.

• Corneal Abrasions: If a lens is damaged or has debris on its surface, it can scratch the cornea, leading to discomfort and potential complications.

• Overwear Syndrome: Wearing Ortho-K lenses for extended periods beyond the recommended time can lead to reduced oxygen supply to the cornea, causing discomfort and other complications.

• Vision Fluctuations: Inconsistent wear or improper lens fit can lead to fluctuations in vision correction.

2. Precautions to Mitigate Risks:

• Handle with Care: Always ensure your hands are clean and dry before handling your Ortho-K lenses. Use a gentle touch and avoid using sharp objects or nails to handle them.

• Regular Cleaning and Maintenance: Adhere to a strict cleaning routine using the recommended solutions. Ensure the lens case is also cleaned regularly and replaced as advised.

• Avoid Tap Water: Never rinse or store Ortho-K lenses in tap water, as it can introduce harmful microorganisms.

• Regular Eye Check-ups: Schedule and attend regular appointments with your orthokeratologist to ensure the lenses fit correctly and to monitor the health of your eyes.

• Immediate Action on Discomfort: If you experience any discomfort, redness, or vision changes, remove the lenses immediately and consult your orthokeratologist.

• Lens Storage: When not in use, store the lenses in a clean case filled with fresh disinfecting solution.

• Replacement of Damaged Lenses: Never wear a lens that is cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. If a lens breaks, is lost, or shows signs of wear, contact your provider for a replacement immediately.

In conclusion, while Ortho-K offers a transformative approach to vision correction, it's essential to be aware of the associated risks and take necessary precautions. Regular care, maintenance, and open communication with your Optometrist ensure a safe and effective Ortho-K journey.

Storing Your Ortho-K Lenses

Storing your Ortho-K lenses properly is crucial for maintaining their integrity and ensuring they remain free from contaminants. Always use the recommended storage solutions and never use tap water. Here are some recommended two-part systems for lens care:

Storage Solutions

• Clear Care: This is a no-rub solution. Lenses can be directly inserted into the provided case, filled with the solution, and must soak for a minimum of six hours. Before inserting the lenses, rinse them with Purilens Plus.

• Boston Advance: This system involves using the Boston Advance Cleaner followed by the Boston Advance Conditioning Solution. For a deeper clean, use the Boston One Step Liquid Enzymatic Cleaner once a week.

• Boston Simplus: This is an all-in-one solution for cleaning, disinfecting, and conditioning. It's essential to rinse the lenses with either Purilens Plus or Boston Advance Conditioning Solution before storing them in the Simplus solution.

For more information on lens storage, visit this guide: https://mykidsvision.org/knowledge-centre/what-is-ortho-k/.

Lens Removal Techniques

Removing your Ortho-K lenses requires care and precision. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Wash Hands: Always ensure your hands are clean before handling the lenses.
2. Check Lens Position: Before attempting removal, ensure the lens isn't adhered to the eye. Use re-wetting artificial tears to help any stuck lens move freely.
3. Use Plunger: Firmly place the plunger on the center of the lens. Once the plunger suctions to the lens, both should come out together.
4. Alternative Method: If you can't locate your plunger, use lid manipulation. Look straight into a mirror, use your fingers to reveal the lens, and gently press the lids towards the eye. The lens should come away from the eye and can be removed with two fingers.

For a detailed guide on lens removal, consider this article: https://www.optometrists.org/general-practice-optometry/guide-to-myopia-management/ortho-k-top-10-faqs/.

When Not to Wear Your Lenses

There are specific situations where it's best not to wear your Ortho-K lenses:

• When you're sick.
• If you have an eye infection.
• If your eyes are red, irritated, or watering.
• If the lenses appear damaged.

Remember: If in doubt, take them out!

Emergency Care

In case of any eye issues, discomfort, or concerns, it's essential to contact your orthokeratologist immediately. Jaycob Chin can be reached at +6593838569. If you experience symptoms like redness, pain, discharge, light sensitivity, or blurred vision, remove your lenses and seek medical advice.

For more insights on emergency care, check out this article: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/what-is-orthokeratology.

Follow-Up Visits

Regular follow-up visits are essential for monitoring the success of your Ortho-K treatment. These visits allow your orthokeratologist to check your corneal health, the condition of your lenses, and the overall success of the treatment. Missing these appointments could jeopardize the treatment or your eye's health.