Orthokeratology involves taking precise measurements of the eye shape. At InFocus Optical, we have the gold-standard corneal topographer to obtain this eye map. By combining vision and other eye shape findings, a fully customised lens is designed for each eye. When worn overnight, the lens will precisely guide the reshaping process. Ortho-K contact lenses gently flattens the first layer of the cornea.
The principle of flattening is similar to how laser vision correction works. However, instead of permanently changing the eye surface, ortho-k is reversible. This avoids some serious adverse effects associated with laser, such as permanent dry eyes, haloes and hazy vision. Ortho-K is a safe, non-permanent, non-surgical alternative to laser vision correction.
The Advancement of Ortho K
The birth of ortho-k dates back to 1962 when it was discovered that some contact lens wearers had improved vision after contact lens removal. Early efforts to try and precisely control this effect were limited. The contact lens specialists of the time did not fully understand how it worked and were held back by technology.
Today, we have in our hands the technology to carefully develop an ortho-k program. Our bio-microscopes help detect problems before, during and after lens wear. Mapping of the eye surface in 3D enables accurate contact lens design. Then computer-controlled lathes cut the lenses, precisely pre-programming the ortho-k effect into each lens. It is this precision in lens manufacturing that early contact lens specialists could not achieve. Ongoing research means the latest lens materials transmit high amounts of oxygen, making overnight lens wear safe.