Can Both Adults and Kids Wear Ortho-k?

Ortho-k lenses are customized rigid contact lenses worn overnight to change the shape of the cornea. The cornea is the clear dome that functions as the lens for the eye. The shape of the cornea can affect the eye’s ability to focus.

The lenses are removed upon waking, and the changes in the cornea help increase or reduce the focusing power. When fitted properly, ortho-k lenses help avoid the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Ortho-k for Adults 

Orthokeratology or ortho-k lenses allow the individual to see clearly without wearing eyeglasses or contacts. They are a healthy choice for people who do not want eye surgery. Individuals who are nearsighted, farsighted, and astigmatic can benefit from the lenses. They are ideal for people over 40 who have presbyopia and require reading glasses. The lenses help prevent the progression of refractive errors. 

Candidates for Ortho-k

Ortho-k lenses are a good choice for adults who require vision correction without worrying about eyeglasses getting in the way. Active individuals like those who play sports can find wearing corrective lenses inconvenient. 

Those in professions such as law enforcement, who have unaided vision requirements, can benefit from ortho-k. The lenses help restore clear vision without surgery, eyeglasses, or contacts. The process is nonsurgical, safe, and reversible. 

Ortho-k for Children 

Ortho-k is ideal for correcting vision in both children and adults. Studies show that treatment can help slow or prevent myopia progression in kids. It allows children to see clearly throughout the day without eyeglasses or contacts.

It can enable children to participate in sports and other school activities without having glasses getting in the way. The vision correction option is safe and effective for children. 

Benefits of Ortho-k for Kids

Most children do not like wearing eyeglasses mainly due to their appearance. They also get in the way of recreational activities. Ortho-k treatment can help improve vision, and studies show that satisfaction is higher with the treatment.

Using overnight lenses means parents can supervise to ensure they are used as prescribed. For best results, the lenses are worn every night. Parents can supervise lens care and cleaning, contributing to effective treatment. 

Safe Vision Correction

Both adults and kids can benefit from vision correction using ortho-k. Research indicates that the lenses have a high safety record in kids. Their safety is similar to that of daily-wear silicone contact lenses.

In a few cases, contact lens wearers may develop an infection usually associated with water. Unlike daily-wear lenses often worn during water sports, ortho-k lenses are worn at night, making them safer. The treatment is reversible; failing to wear the lenses causes the cornea to revert to its original shape.  

When prescribed for adults, ortho-k lenses provide the best vision by correcting the refractive error. The lenses help reduce the dependence on eyeglasses or vision correction devices, improving the individual’s quality of life. They allow wearers to participate in water sports and other activities effectively. Customized lens designs are an effective myopia management option for children. 

For more on how adults and kids can wear ortho-k, visit Planet Vision Eyecare in Lake Worth Beach, Florida. Call (561) 556-4600 to book an appointment today.