A Parent’s Guide to Ortho-K for Kids and Teens

As a parent, you want the best for your child's vision and overall eye health. If your child struggles with nearsightedness (myopia), you may have heard of orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K. This non-surgical, FDA-approved treatment offers a safe and effective way to correct vision without daytime glasses or contact lenses.

What Is Ortho-K?

Ortho-K is a specialized vision correction method that uses custom-designed gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, allowing them to enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the need for corrective eyewear. The effects are temporary, requiring consistent nightly wear to maintain results.

Why Consider Ortho-K for Your Child?

One of the biggest concerns for parents of nearsighted children is the progression of myopia. Higher levels of myopia not only require stronger prescriptions but also increase the risk of eye diseases such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Ortho-K has been shown to slow the progression of myopia, helping to preserve long-term eye health.
Ortho-K is an excellent option for active children and teens who play sports, swim, or engage in other activities where glasses or daytime contact lenses can be inconvenient. Since the lenses are worn only at night, kids can enjoy clear vision without worrying about breaking glasses or losing contacts.

For children and teens who are not yet candidates for LASIK, Ortho-K offers a non-invasive way to correct vision. Since it is reversible, parents can feel confident knowing that their child's eye health is not permanently altered.

With the rise of digital screen use, many children experience eye strain and fatigue. Ortho-K provides crisp, clear vision without the added discomfort that can sometimes come with prolonged contact lens wear during screen use.

Is Ortho-K Safe for Kids and Teens?

Yes, Ortho-K is considered safe when properly fitted and managed by an eye care professional. However, as with any contact lens use, maintaining proper hygiene is essential to minimize the risk of infections or complications. Parents should ensure their child follows all cleaning and handling instructions provided by their eye doctor.

What to Expect from the Ortho-K Process

• Comprehensive Eye Exam – Your child will need a thorough eye exam to determine if they are a good candidate for Ortho-K. This includes corneal topography, which maps the shape of the cornea to design customized lenses.

• Lens Fitting & Trial Period – Once fitted, your child will wear the lenses overnight. It may take a few days to weeks to achieve full vision correction, with adjustments made as needed.

• Regular Follow-Ups – Routine follow-up visits ensure the lenses fit properly and that your child’s eyes remain healthy. Your optometrist will monitor myopia progression and make necessary changes to the treatment plan.

Schedule a Consultation at Flanders Family Eye Care Today

Ortho-K is a safe, effective, and non-invasive option for managing childhood myopia while providing freedom from daytime glasses and contacts. With its ability to slow myopia progression and improve visual quality, it’s an excellent choice for parents looking to protect their child’s long-term eye health.

If you’re considering Ortho-K for your child or teen, schedule an eye exam with Flanders Family Eye Care to learn more about how these lenses can benefit your child. Visit our office in Flanders, New Jersey, or call (973) 447-9500 to book an appointment today.