Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)
If you’re tired of glasses or contact lenses, or not ready for laser eye surgery, orthokeratology (Ortho-K) may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Ortho-K is a safe, non-surgical vision correction treatment that uses specially designed contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape your cornea. When you wake up and remove the lenses, you can see clearly all day long without glasses or daytime contacts.
At Coachella Valley Optometry, our doctors fit custom Ortho-K lenses for patients across Indio, Coachella, Cathedral City, and Palm Springs.
What is Ortho-K?
Ortho-K uses gas permeable contact lenses that are worn while you sleep. Overnight, these lenses gently reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina. In the morning, you remove the lenses and enjoy clear vision throughout the day.
- Vision correction is temporary but long-lasting, many patients see clearly for 24–48 hours or longer after one night of wear.
- Because results are reversible, Ortho-K is a flexible and non-invasive alternative to LASIK.
Who is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?
Ortho-K may be right for you if you:
- Struggle with dry eye that makes daytime contacts uncomfortable
- Have allergies to contact lens materials
- Play sports or lead an active lifestyle and want freedom from glasses
- Work in dusty environments where debris gets under contacts
- Want to wake up in the middle of the night and see clearly without glasses
- Simply dislike wearing glasses or daytime contacts
Ortho-K is also an excellent option for children and teens with myopia (nearsightedness), since it can help slow the progression of myopia during the years their eyes are still developing.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Most patients notice improvement in their vision within the first few days of wearing Ortho-K lenses. For full correction, it may take 1–4 weeks of nightly wear.
- Some patients may need to wear glasses or contacts during the transition period.
- Mild discomfort is possible at first, but most patients adapt quickly within a few nights.
Is Ortho-K Safe?
Yes. Ortho-K was approved by the FDA in 2002 as a safe and effective treatment for refractive errors. Unlike LASIK, the results are completely reversible if you stop wearing the lenses.
The most common risk is eye infection, usually linked to improper lens cleaning. With proper hygiene and regular follow-up visits, Ortho-K is considered very safe.
Benefits of Ortho-K
- Clear, glasses-free vision during the day
- Non-surgical and reversible alternative to LASIK
- Excellent option for children with myopia
- Great for athletes and active individuals
- Works while you sleep, no daytime lenses needed
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Ortho-K different from LASIK?
LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea with surgery, while Ortho-K gently reshapes the cornea temporarily with special lenses worn at night
Is Ortho-K only for kids?
No. Ortho-K works for both children and adults. It’s often recommended for kids because it can help slow the progression of myopia
Will I have to wear Ortho-K lenses forever?
To maintain clear vision, lenses need to be worn nightly (or every other night for some patients). If you stop, your vision will gradually return to its original prescription
Schedule an Ortho-K Consultation
If you’re looking for a safe, effective, and non-surgical way to reduce your dependence on glasses or contacts, Ortho-K may be the perfect fit.
Schedule your Ortho-K consultation today at Coachella Valley Optometry, with offices in Indio, Coachella, Cathedral City, and Palm Springs, CA.
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