If your child has been diagnosed with myopia (nearsightedness), you may have heard about a treatment called orthokeratology (ortho-K). This innovative method is a non-surgical solution for managing myopia.
With ortho-K, children wear specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight while sleeping. These lenses gently reshape the cornea, the eye's front surface, temporarily correcting the refractive error and providing clear vision during the day.
Regularly wearing ortho-K lenses allows children to experience improved vision without needing glasses or daytime contact lenses. Ortho-k offers a safe and effective way to control myopia progression, making it a popular choice for children and adults seeking an alternative to traditional eyewear or refractive surgeries.
If you're considering ortho-K for your child, it's essential to understand its use, safety, and effectiveness. Discover how 20/20 Eye Care Center in Fullerton can diagnose nearsightedness, prescribe the best treatment, and support your child throughout the process.
Safety and Effectiveness of Orthokeratology for Children
One of the primary concerns for parents considering any treatment for their children is safety. Rest assured, orthokeratology is a well-established and safe, FDA-approved method for managing myopia in children. The specially designed contact lenses used in ortho-K are gas-permeable lenses that allow oxygen to reach the eyes, maintaining healthy corneal function.
Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of ortho-K in slowing myopia progression in children. By gently reshaping the cornea, ortho-K lenses correct refractive errors and temporarily reduce myopia. The lenses will need to be worn regularly to keep the vision corrected.
This can lead to a slower rate of myopia progression, which is crucial because if left untreated, this condition can increase the risk of eye conditions later in a child's life.
Insights: How Children Experience Ortho-k
Applying Ortho-K Lenses: Putting in ortho-k lenses may seem daunting at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. Your eye care professional at 20/20 Eye Care Center will guide you and your child through the process, demonstrating the proper insertion technique.
This involves gently placing the lens on the eye using clean hands and following a specific procedure. Remember, patience and practice are key to mastering this skill.
What it Feels Like: Your child may initially experience a slight sensation of the lenses on their eyes, but this usually fades away within a few minutes. Most children adapt quickly and find the lenses comfortable to wear during sleep. Some children even report improved vision upon waking up, making their mornings more enjoyable and hassle-free.
How Ortho-K Helps: Ortho-K treatment involves wearing specially designed lenses to reshape the cornea. These lenses are worn at night while you sleep to correct the front surface of the eye and provide clear vision.
This means your child can participate in sports, play, and learn without needing glasses or daytime contact lenses. Ortho-K provides freedom and convenience while effectively managing myopia progression.
Tips for Parents to Assist Their Kids in Managing Orthokeratology Therapy
- Encourage Good Eye Hygiene:
Teach your child the importance of washing their hands before handling their ortho-K lenses. Maintaining good hygiene reduces the risk of eye infections and ensures the lenses stay clean and clear.
- Establish a Routine:
Make wearing and caring for ortho-K lenses part of your child's daily routine. Set specific times for inserting and removing the lenses to maintain consistency and make it easier for your child to remember.
- Monitor their Progress:
Keep an eye on your child's ortho-K routine to ensure they wear the lenses as prescribed. Consistent wear is crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment.
- Regular Follow-up Visits:
Schedule regular check-ups with 20/20 Eye Care Center in Fullerton to monitor your child's progress. These visits allow for adjustments to the ortho-K lenses if needed and provide an opportunity to address any concerns or questions.
Happy Parents Share Their Experiences:
Jessica Valtierra shares her positive experience: "First time coming here and WOW! Both my daughters were seen by Dr. Kim, and I can honestly say she went above and beyond to thoroughly answer all of my questions. I had a couple of concerns, and after talking to her, I feel a lot better. Will be bringing my daughters here from now on!"
Claudia praised her long-standing relationship with Dr. Chiana: "I have been coming to Dr. Chiana since I was 8. I am now 31 and bring my kids here. He is very attentive, and his staff always provides great service."
The Diaz clan also expressed their satisfaction, stating, "I've been going here since I was a child, and now I take my children, and so does my extended family. Dr. Chiana is so professional, and the considerate staff is amazing. I don't see myself going anywhere else. They deserve 10 stars!"
Orthokeratology Therapy in Fullerton
Ortho-K lenses can improve your child's quality of life and reduce the risks associated with high myopia. If you have any questions or would like to consider ortho-K for your child, please make an appointment at 20/20 Eye Care Center today.
With proper guidance from us, and your support, your child can experience the benefits of ortho-K while enjoying the joys of childhood with clear, unobstructed vision.
