Orthokeratology hygiene and safety
The daily habits, warning symptoms and follow-up that help reduce risk when rigid lenses are worn during sleep.
General patient information
Ortho-K lenses are worn while the eyelids are closed, so safe use depends on more than a comfortable fit. Overnight contact-lens wear is associated with infection risk. Careful selection, fitting, hygiene and rapid response to symptoms help reduce risk but cannot remove it completely.
Build a clean routine
Wash and dry hands thoroughly before touching lenses. Rub, rinse, disinfect and store lenses exactly as instructed for the prescribed products, and replace the case and care items on schedule. Never use saliva, homemade saline or a product that has not been approved for the specific step.
- Keep lenses and cases away from tap, shower, swimming and spa water.
- Use fresh solution; never top up old solution.
- Keep bottle tips clean and avoid touching them to any surface.
Do not wear through a problem
Remove the lens and seek prompt professional advice for pain, marked redness, unusual light sensitivity, discharge or sudden blur. Do not put the lens back in to test whether the symptom settles. A child should be able to alert a supporting adult, and the family should know the practice's out-of-hours route.
Reviews are a safety check
Follow-up assesses corneal health, lens condition and fit, topographic response, unaided vision and handling. Some problems are visible to the clinician before the wearer feels them. Bring the lenses, case and products when requested, and disclose missed wear or changes in the routine honestly.