Orthokeratology services offered in Rancho Cucamonga, CA
If you’re nearsighted and it affects your performance at work or during other activities, consider orthokeratology. Orthokeratology uses special contact lenses to reshape your cornea and transform your vision. At Crystal Vision Optometry, experienced optometrist Leena Adhikari, OD, uses orthokeratology to stabilize prescription changes and help patients see without corrective devices. To make an appointment, call the office in Rancho Cucamonga, California, or book online today.
What is orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, is a cutting-edge treatment for nearsightedness. It uses custom-fitted contact lenses to reshape your cornea (the clear lens at the front of your eye) and enhance your vision.
The changes that orthokeratology makes aren’t permanent. Even so, it’s possible to maintain your results if you follow your provider’s instructions.
How does orthokeratology work?
Orthokeratology begins with an eye exam at Crystal Vision Optometry.
During the exam, your provider conducts corneal topography. Corneal topography is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that measures the surface of your cornea. Your provider uses the map and measurements to assess the shape and curves of your cornea.
Then, they send your corneal map to an optometry lab. Technicians at the lab use your corneal map to design and manufacture special orthokeratology lenses. About a week later, when the contact lenses are ready, you return to Crystal Vision Optometry and try them on.
Throughout treatment, you wear the orthokeratology lenses at night. The lenses are rigid and help flatten your cornea. You remove them during the day, but depending on the severity of your nearsightedness, you might still need to wear glasses.
If you stop wearing ortho-k lenses, your corneas eventually revert to their original shape. Therefore, it’s vital to follow your provider’s instructions.
How soon will I see results from orthokeratology?
The time it takes for orthokeratology to work depends on several factors, including the severity of your nearsightedness and how closely you follow your provider’s instructions. That said, most people achieve maximum vision correction in about two weeks.
Be patient, wear your contacts as prescribed, and attend your follow-up visits.
Is orthokeratology safe?
Orthokeratology is safe and usually well-tolerated, but wearing contact lenses may increase your risk of dry eyes or an eye infection. To reduce your risk of infection, always wash your hands with soap and warm water before putting in or removing your ortho-k contacts.
Does health insurance cover orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology is considered an elective procedure, so it typically isn’t covered by health insurance. But every policy is different. If you have questions about what your insurance covers, contact your insurance provider before making an appointment at Crystal Vision Optometry.
To see if you’re a candidate for orthokeratology, make an appointment at Crystal Vision Optometry by calling the office or booking online today.