Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) in Chicago, IL
If you’re looking for a non-surgical alternative to glasses and daytime contact lenses, Orthokeratology — commonly known as Ortho-K — may be the answer. At Ideal Family Eye Care, our experienced optometrists offer Ortho-K as a safe and effective solution for vision correction and myopia control in children and adults alike. Discover the freedom of clear vision without surgery.
request an appointmentWhat Is Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)?
Orthokeratology is an FDA-approved, non-surgical vision correction therapy that uses specially designed rigid contact lenses to gently and temporarily reshape the curvature of the cornea overnight. Patients wear the custom-fitted lenses while they sleep, and when they wake up, they enjoy clear, sharp natural vision throughout the day — without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
Think of Ortho-K somewhat like orthodontic braces for your eyes. Just as a orthodontist uses braces to gradually straighten teeth, your Ortho-K provider at Ideal Family Eye Care uses precisely custom-fabricated contact lenses to gently reshape the cornea to an optimal curvature for vision correction. The lenses work gradually and comfortably while you sleep, so you wake up ready to see clearly.
Ortho-K is an ideal solution for:
- Adults and children with myopia (nearsightedness)
- Active individuals who want freedom from glasses and daytime contacts
- Children with progressing myopia who need effective myopia control
- Patients who are not ready for or do not qualify for LASIK surgery
- Contact lens wearers who experience daytime discomfort or dry eyes
How Does Ortho-K Work?
During a consultation at Ideal Family Eye Care, our providers will use corneal topography to map the precise shape of your cornea and determine whether you are a good candidate for Ortho-K. If you qualify, we will have a pair of custom lenses fabricated specifically for your eyes. You’ll wear the lenses each night while you sleep and remove them each morning. Most patients begin noticing clearer vision within the first few days of wearing the lenses, with optimal results typically achieved within one to two weeks.
Because Ortho-K reshaping is temporary, the lenses must be worn consistently each night to maintain the vision correction effect. This also means that if you ever decide to discontinue treatment, your cornea will gradually return to its original shape and your vision will revert to its pre-treatment state — making it a completely reversible option.
Ortho-K for Myopia Control in Children
One of the most important and exciting applications of Ortho-K at Ideal Family Eye Care is in slowing the progression of myopia in children and teenagers. Research shows that children who wear Ortho-K lenses overnight can experience significantly slower myopia progression compared to those wearing traditional glasses or soft contact lenses. In fact, studies have found that children who wore Ortho-K lenses for 10 years progressed by less than 0.5 diopter on average — a remarkable result for families concerned about their child’s worsening nearsightedness.
To learn more about Ortho-K for your child or to find out if you are a candidate, call Ideal Family Eye Care today at (773) 774-2200 or schedule a consultation online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ortho-K
What is Ortho-K and how does it work?
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is an FDA-approved non-surgical vision correction therapy. Custom-designed rigid contact lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. When the lenses are removed each morning, patients enjoy clear natural vision throughout the day without glasses or daytime contacts.
Is Ortho-K safe for children?
Yes, Ortho-K is safe and well-studied for use in children. It is particularly beneficial for kids with progressing myopia, as it has been shown to significantly slow the progression of nearsightedness. Our providers at Ideal Family Eye Care carefully evaluate each child’s candidacy before fitting them with Ortho-K lenses.
How quickly will I see results with Ortho-K?
Most patients notice an improvement in their vision within the first few days of wearing Ortho-K lenses. Optimal results are usually achieved within one to two weeks of consistent nightly wear.
Is Ortho-K reversible?
Yes. Because Ortho-K reshaping is temporary, the effects are completely reversible. If you discontinue nightly lens wear, your cornea will gradually return to its natural shape and your vision will revert to its original state.
How is Ortho-K different from LASIK?
Unlike LASIK surgery, which permanently reshapes the cornea using a laser, Ortho-K is a non-surgical, reversible therapy. Ortho-K is a great alternative for patients who are not yet candidates for LASIK, prefer to avoid surgery, or want a solution for their child’s progressing myopia.
Who is a good candidate for Ortho-K?
Ortho-K is best suited for patients with mild to moderate myopia. Ideal candidates include children with progressing nearsightedness, adults who want to reduce dependence on glasses or contacts, and patients who experience discomfort with daytime contact lens wear. A thorough evaluation at Ideal Family Eye Care will confirm whether Ortho-K is right for you.
How do I get started with Ortho-K at Ideal Family Eye Care?
Call us at (773) 774-2200 to schedule a consultation at Ideal Family Eye Care in Chicago, IL . Our providers will perform a corneal topography mapping and complete evaluation to determine if Ortho-K is the best solution for your vision needs.