Ortho-k

By Jane Therrien OD, FIAOMC, Optometric Physician

Orthokeratology the eyeball. Astigmatism is another condi(also known tion caused by the shape of the cornea, this as ortho-k) time by irregularities in the curvature of the is a treatment that eye. Presbyopia is a natural annoying part relies on custom designed contact lenses to of aging, a gradual worsening of near vision temporarily reshape the front surface of the that occurs around age 40 and continues eye, or the cornea to improve vision. It’s like until around age 65. Ortho-k can be used to orthodontics for eyes and is often compared correct all of these conditions. Ortho-k has to dental braces. The patient wears these been also been clinically proven to slow the lenses only while they sleep. After waking, progression of myopia (nearsightedness) the patient will remove the contact lenses in children. Myopia is more than an inconand can see clearly throughout the day venience. It can pose a serious risk to your without glasses or contact lenses. Vision child’s long term vision. As a child develops improvement is reversible but can be main- and the myopia rapidly progresses, the child tained if you continue wearing the lenses is at a higher risk of developing dangerous as directed. Ortho-k is a safe, non-surgical eye diseases later in life. These include alternative to LASIK surgery and can be retinal detachments, macular degeneration, enjoyed by people of all ages. The shape of glaucoma and cataracts. The higher the the cornea dictates much about the quality myopia, the higher the risk of these sight of a person’s vision. Myopia (nearsighted- threatening complications. Thankfully, myoness) and hyperopia (farsightedness) are pia management can help. Myopia manageso-called “refractive errors” and are caused ment solutions include ortho-k, multifocal by the shape of the cornea and the length of contact lenses and atropine eye drops. New research states that giving children low dose atropine eye drops at bedtime can slow the progression of myopia. Children who receive atropine drops will still need glasses. Soft Multifocal contact lenses have also been shown to decrease the progression of nearsightedness. MiSight 1 day is the first and only FDA-approved soft contact lens to slow the progression of myopia in children. If you have any questions about our ortho-k, our myopia treatment options or would like to schedule an appointment, you can contact us at 954-888-9393.

⊲ For a consultation or more information, you can reach Dr. Therrien at Weston Family

Eyecare, 4472 Weston Road, or call 954-8889393. Dr. Therrien and her staff look forward to exceeding your expectations. www.westonfamilyeyecare.com