What is orthokeratology?
The basics of overnight corneal-reshaping lenses, including temporary effect, suitability and the responsibilities of safe wear.
General patient information
Orthokeratology, often shortened to Ortho-K, uses specially fitted rigid contact lenses during sleep to temporarily alter the front corneal shape. After lens removal, this can reduce a person's short-sighted prescription for part or all of the waking day.
A temporary optical effect
Ortho-K does not remove myopia or permanently reshape the eye. The cornea gradually returns towards its previous shape when wear stops, so the effect is maintained through the prescribed wearing pattern. Vision can fluctuate during the initial period and after missed wear.
Two possible goals
Some people consider Ortho-K for daytime freedom from spectacles or contact lenses. In selected children with progressing myopia, it may also be one evidence-informed management option intended to slow eye growth. No option can promise to stop, reverse or cure myopia.
Overnight wear needs particular care
Sleeping in any contact lens carries infection risk. Suitability assessment, precise fitting, strict hand and lens hygiene, no-water habits and scheduled reviews are essential. The wearer and, for a child, supporting adults need to recognise warning symptoms and know how to obtain prompt help.