Orthokeratology: Is It Right for High Myopia and Astigmatism?

I would like to learn more about orthokeratology lenses?

Is it suitable for a person who is six months away from turning 20 years old, with myopia of -7.00 diopters and astigmatism of -4.00 diopters, to wear orthokeratology lenses? If they start wearing them now, will it still help prevent further progression of myopia? Thank you.

Min, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/30

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology

Generally, by the age of 18, the eyeball has fully developed, and the prescription tends to stabilize, showing little increase.
Your astigmatism exceeds 3.00 diopters, which may make you less suitable for wearing contact lenses.

Reply Date: 2016/03/30

More Info

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a non-surgical method of reshaping the cornea to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. This is achieved through the use of specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses that are worn overnight. The lenses gently flatten the cornea, allowing for clearer vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
In your case, with a prescription of -7.00 diopters for myopia and -4.00 diopters for astigmatism, it is important to consider several factors before determining if Ortho-K is suitable for you. Generally, Ortho-K is most effective for individuals with mild to moderate myopia (up to about -6.00 to -7.00 diopters) and lower levels of astigmatism (usually less than -1.50 diopters). However, some practitioners may have success with higher prescriptions, depending on individual corneal characteristics and the specific Ortho-K lens design.

At the age of 20, your eyes are likely to be stable, which is a positive factor for Ortho-K treatment. One of the key benefits of Ortho-K is its potential to slow down the progression of myopia in children and adolescents. While there is some evidence suggesting that Ortho-K can help in controlling myopia progression, its effectiveness in individuals who are already in their 20s and have high myopia is less clear. The primary goal at this age would be to achieve clear vision during the day, rather than preventing further progression of myopia.

It's also essential to consider the health of your corneas and overall eye condition. A thorough eye examination by an eye care professional is necessary to assess the suitability of Ortho-K lenses for your specific situation. Factors such as corneal thickness, curvature, and overall eye health will play a significant role in determining if you can safely wear Ortho-K lenses.

If you are considering Ortho-K, it is advisable to consult with an eye care specialist who has experience with this treatment. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and discuss the potential benefits and limitations based on your unique prescription and eye characteristics. They will also inform you about the necessary follow-up care and how to maintain the lenses properly to ensure optimal results.

In summary, while Ortho-K may be an option for individuals with high myopia and astigmatism, its effectiveness can vary based on individual circumstances. A detailed consultation with an eye care professional will help you make an informed decision about whether Ortho-K is the right choice for you.

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