Orthokeratology for Myopia Control

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common among children and teenagers, affecting not only their ability to see distant objects clearly but also their long-term eye health. At Ozark Eye, we offer Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) as part of our myopia management program, providing a proactive, non-surgical solution to slow the progression of myopia and help protect your child’s vision for the future.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while near objects remain clear. This occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too steep, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. While genetics play a significant role in the development of myopia, environmental factors—such as excessive screen time, prolonged near-work activities, and limited outdoor time—are also contributing to the increasing number of children diagnosed with myopia.

Children with uncorrected or progressing myopia may struggle to see the board in school, read signs clearly, or follow along with lessons. This can lead to:

• Difficulty in Reading and Comprehension – Blurry vision can cause eye strain, headaches, and fatigue, making it harder for children to focus on reading materials.

• Lower Academic Performance – If children cannot clearly see class materials or instructions from a distance, their ability to learn and participate effectively may decline.

• Reduced Confidence – Vision difficulties can make children hesitant to engage in class discussions or participate in activities that require clear distance vision, such as sports.

Ensuring children receive regular eye exams can help prevent these challenges by detecting and addressing myopia early.

What is Myopia Management and Why is it Important?

Myopia management refers to a range of treatments designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. Addressing myopia early can help prevent the risks associated with high myopia, which include:

• Retinal Detachment – High myopia increases the likelihood of the retina pulling away from the back of the eye, which can lead to vision loss.

• Glaucoma – People with myopia are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve.

• Myopic Maculopathy – Progressive myopia can cause degenerative changes in the retina, leading to vision impairment.

• Cataracts – Individuals with high myopia may develop cataracts earlier in life than those with normal vision.

By incorporating myopia control treatments like Ortho-K, our optometrists can help reduce these risks and promote long-term eye health.

What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a non-surgical, FDA-approved treatment designed to slow myopia progression. It involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight to gently reshape the cornea. These lenses temporarily correct myopia, allowing children to see clearly throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.

How Ortho-K Works to Slow Myopia Progression

Ortho-K lenses work by applying slight pressure to the cornea overnight, reshaping its curvature and ensuring light properly focuses on the retina. Ortho-K helps slow the elongation of the eyeball—a key factor in myopia progression. By reducing this growth, Ortho-K can minimize the risk of developing high myopia and its associated complications.

The Benefits of Ortho-K for Children

With consistent use, Ortho-K can be a life-changing solution for children who want to maintain clear vision while actively managing their myopia. Ortho-K offers several advantages for children and their families:

• Clear Vision Without Glasses – Kids can enjoy everyday activities, including sports and outdoor play, without worrying about losing or breaking glasses.

• Non-Invasive and Reversible – Unlike LASIK surgery, Ortho-K is completely reversible. If a child stops using Ortho-K lenses, their cornea will gradually return to its original shape.

• Improved Self-Confidence – Many children feel more confident without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.

• Myopia Control for Long-Term Eye Health – By slowing myopia progression, Ortho-K helps reduce the risk of serious eye diseases later in life.

• Convenience for Active Lifestyles – Since Ortho-K lenses are worn only at night, there’s no risk of discomfort from dry eyes or lens-related irritation during the day.

To learn more about how Orthokeratology can benefit your child, schedule a consultation with Ozark Eye today. Dr. Daiber will assess your child’s vision needs and develop a customized myopia management plan to help protect their eyesight for years to come.