Can I Wear Prescription Glasses Over My Orthokeratology Lenses? - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Wearing prescription glasses over orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses is generally not recommended. Ortho-k lenses are specially designed to reshape the cornea while you sleep, allowing for clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, if you find that the correction from your ortho-k lenses is insufficient during the day, it’s important to address this issue rather than simply layering glasses on top of your contact lenses.

Firstly, let’s discuss the purpose of ortho-k lenses. These lenses are designed to temporarily reshape the cornea, which can help reduce myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. The goal is to achieve clear vision during the day without the need for corrective eyewear. If you are experiencing inadequate vision correction with your ortho-k lenses, it may be a sign that your prescription needs to be adjusted or that the lenses are not fitting properly. It is essential to consult with your eye care professional to evaluate the effectiveness of your current ortho-k treatment and to determine if a different lens design or prescription is necessary.

Wearing prescription glasses over ortho-k lenses can lead to several issues. First, it can create discomfort and visual distortion. The combination of two different corrective lenses can lead to an unclear visual experience, as the glasses may not align properly with the curvature of the ortho-k lenses. This misalignment can cause strain on your eyes, leading to headaches and visual fatigue, especially if you are using them for extended periods.

Moreover, if you are relying on glasses during the day, it may undermine the purpose of using ortho-k lenses. The idea is to reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses, and wearing glasses over ortho-k lenses could lead to a psychological reliance on glasses, which may not be beneficial in the long run.

If you are experiencing issues with your ortho-k lenses, consider the following steps:
1. Consult Your Eye Care Professional: Schedule an appointment with your optometrist or ophthalmologist to discuss your concerns. They can assess your current prescription, the fit of your ortho-k lenses, and whether any adjustments are needed.

2. Evaluate Your Ortho-K Treatment: Your eye care provider may suggest a different lens design or a change in the prescription to improve your daytime vision. Sometimes, the cornea may not be reshaping as expected, and adjustments can help achieve better results.

3. Consider Alternative Solutions: If ortho-k lenses are not providing the desired results, you might explore other options such as daily wear contact lenses or refractive surgery, depending on your age, eye health, and personal preferences.

4. Practice Good Eye Care Habits: Ensure that you are following the recommended wear schedule for your ortho-k lenses and maintaining proper hygiene. This includes cleaning and storing your lenses correctly to avoid complications.

5. Monitor Your Eye Health: Keep an eye on any changes in your vision or discomfort. If you notice any significant changes, such as increased sensitivity to light or persistent discomfort, seek immediate medical attention.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to wear prescription glasses over your ortho-k lenses for additional correction, it is not advisable. Instead, focus on optimizing your ortho-k treatment and consult with your eye care professional for the best course of action. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and help you achieve the best possible vision correction.