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The Complete Guide to Ortho-K
Everything you need to know about overnight vision correction for your child
What is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a non-surgical vision correction treatment that uses specially designed rigid contact lenses worn exclusively at night. While you sleeps, the lenses gently reshape the cornea — the transparent front surface of the eye — to correct how light focuses on the retina.
By morning, the lenses are removed and you sees clearly all day. No glasses. No daytime contact lenses. Just natural, unassisted vision from the moment they wake up.
The reshaping is temporary and completely reversible. If you stop wearing the lenses, the cornea gradually returns to its original shape over a few days — there are no permanent changes to the eye.
How Quickly Does It Work?
One of the first questions patients ask. The answer depends on your prescription and corneal flexibility, but the typical timeline is:
After the First Night
Noticeable improvement in distance vision. Many patients can already function without glasses.
Within One Month
95-100% vision correction is typically reached, with clear, stable vision throughout the entire day.
Within One Week
Approximately 80% or more of the correction is achieved. Most patients are comfortably glasses-free.
Ongoing
Lenses are worn nightly to maintain clear vision. Occasional nights off are often possible once full correction is achieved.
Patients with higher prescriptions, significant astigmatism, or more resistant corneas may take slightly longer. We monitor progress closely during this period.
Ortho-K Doesn't Just Correct Vision — It Controls Myopia
Standard glasses and contact lenses correct blurry vision, but they do nothing to slow the underlying progression of myopia. Each year, the prescription gets stronger.
Ortho-K is different. It's one of the most effective methods available for slowing myopia progression in children, reducing it by up to 60%. It works by reshaping how light focuses on the peripheral retina, reducing the biological signals that drive eye elongation — the underlying cause of worsening myopia.
Why Myopia Progression Matters
Myopia greater than -5.00D is classified as high myopia and significantly increases the lifetime risk of:
Retinal Detachment
The retina pulls away from the back of the eye — a sight-threatening emergency
Glaucoma
Increased pressure damages the optic nerve, causing progressive vision loss.
Myopic Macular Degeneration
Damage to the central visoin area, affecting reading and fine detail.
Early Cataracts
Clouding of the eye’s natural lens, often developing earlier in high myopes.
Every dioptre of progression we can prevent during childhood reduces these risks. The goal isn't just clear vision today — it's healthier eyes for life.
Is Ortho-K Right For You?
Ortho-K is most suitable for children and teens with mild to moderate myopia, with or without astigmatism. Suitability is determined after a comprehensive examination including corneal topography — a detailed 3D map of the eye's surface.
Why It Works Especially Well for Children
The lens wear process is supervised at home by parents. There's nothing to manage at school — no glasses to lose, no contact lenses to insert. Children go to school and play sport completely free of any correction.
Ortho-K for Adults
Not just for kids. Ortho-K is excellent for adults who prefer life without glasses — particularly those with dry eyes, as it bypasses the dryness from regular daytime contact lens wear.
The Ortho-K Process at Concord Eyecare
A structured, carefully managed process. Here's exactly what to expect at each stage:
Comprehensive Assessment (45 minutes)
Thorough eye examination including corneal topography using our Medmont E300 topographer — capturing thousands of data points to create a 3D map of the cornea. We also measure axial length to establish a baseline for tracking myopia progression.
Suitability Confirmation & Transparent Quote
We'll discuss your child's suitability and, if Ortho-K is a good fit, provide a detailed quote with no hidden costs. Your child's package level is confirmed at this stage — no surprises.
Custom Lens Design & Manufacturing (~10 business days)
Lenses are individually designed using the assessment data and ordered from our lens laboratory. No two pairs are the same — each is precision-crafted to match your child's unique corneal profile.
Lens Delivery & Training (1 hour)
We assess the initial fitting and vision, teach the complete insertion and removal technique, walk through the lens care routine, and ensure everyone is confident before going home.
Structured Follow-Up
Next day (teleconsult) → 1 week → 1 month → 3 months → then every 6 months ongoing. Every follow-up is included in your package — no additional consultation fees.
Why Families Love Ortho-K
Freedom from daytime correction — no glasses to lose at school, no contact lenses during sport. Children start each day with clear, natural vision.
Parent-supervised process — the entire routine happens at home under your supervision. Nothing for your child to manage during the school day.
Proven myopia control — unlike standard glasses, Ortho-K actively slows progression and protects long-term eye health.
Confidence boost — many children experience a real boost in confidence, particularly for sport, swimming, and social activities.
Transparent Pricing — Because You Deserve to Know Upfront
No hidden fees, no surprise charges, no awkward conversations at the front desk. Here's exactly what our Ortho-K packages cost:
Every Package Includes — For 24 Months:
- Comprehensive initial assessment and 3D corneal mapping
- One pair of custom-manufactured Ortho-K lenses
- Lens delivery appointment with full training (1 hour)
- All routine follow-up visits for 24 months
- Ongoing corneal topography and axial length measurements
- Solution starter kit (3-month supply)
- 6-month warranty (defects, Rx changes, one breakage)
- 24/7 direct access to your optometrist via personal mobile
A 50% deposit is required before lenses are ordered. Remaining balance due before lens collection.
The price we quote at your assessment is the price you pay.
Warranty & Lens Care
6-Month Warranty
Covers manufacturing defects, prescription changes requiring a refit, and one instance of lens breakage. After the warranty period, replacements are available at standard lens fees with no consultation charges.
Lens Lifespan
Ortho-K lenses typically last 24 months before replacement is needed due to normal surface wear. We monitor lens condition at every review and advise when replacement is approaching.
How Does Ortho-K Compare?
Several evidence-based myopia control treatments are available. The best choice depends on you age, prescription, and lifestyle.
| Treatment | Myopia Slowing | How It's Used | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ortho-K | Up to 60% | Night lenses only | Active kids, swimmers, sport, freedom from glasses |
| MiyoSmart / Stellest | Up to 60% | Daytime glasses | Younger children, those not ready for lens handling |
| MiSight | Up to 59% | Daily disposable lenses | Active kids who prefer contacts over glasses |
| Low-Dose Atropine | Up to 50% | One drop at bedtime | Usually combined with another treatment |
Many families combine treatments — for example, Ortho-K with low-dose atropine for maximum control. We'll discuss the best approach for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ortho-K safe for children?
Yes. Used safely for decades worldwide. Non-surgical, fully reversible. Lenses worn under parental supervision with 24/7 support.
What age can my child start?
Most children can begin from age 6. Earlier intervention leads to significantly better long-term outcomes. No upper age limit.
Does it hurt?
No. Mild awareness for the first few nights. Most children are fully comfortable within a week.
How quickly will I see clearly?
Significant improvement after the first night. ~80% correction within a week. Full stable vision within one month.
What if we stop Ortho-K?
The cornea returns to its original shape within days. No permanent changes — completely reversible.
Can they swim and play sport?
Absolutely. Lenses are only worn at night — your child is completely free during the day for any activity.
What's the cost?
Packages from $1,600 to $2,200 for 24 months covering lenses and all consultations. See full pricing details →
How often are check-ups?
Next day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, then every 6 months. All visits included in your package.
How does Ortho-K compare to MiyoSmart?
Both offer up to 60% slower progression. Ortho-K gives complete daytime freedom; MiyoSmart is simpler for younger children.
Can it combine with atropine drops?
Yes — a common and effective combination. Atropine drops are instilled at bedtime before inserting Ortho-K lenses.
Why Choose Concord Eyecare for Ortho-K?
Ortho-K Lenses Fitted
Over a decade of experience. Every lens custom-designed using advanced 3D corneal mapping technology.
Personal Support
Direct access to your optometrist via personal mobile. Not a call centre — if something's wrong at 10pm, you can reach us.
Hidden Fees
Transparent, all-inclusive pricing. Your package covers lenses, all consultations for 24 months, 6 months warranty, and a 3 month solution starter kit.
Ready to Start Ortho-K?
Book a comprehensive assessment with Dr Mark Joung. We'll map your eyes, assess suitability, and give you a clear, transparent quote — all in one appointment.