At Eye See Optique — Arlington, orthokeratology, often called ortho-k, is a myopia management option that may help children and teens with nearsightedness that is progressing. Ortho-k care begins with a detailed assessment, followed by a customized fitting and ongoing monitoring designed to support clear vision and long-term eye health.
What Is Orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology uses specially designed contact lenses worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the front surface of the eye while your child sleeps, so they can see clearly during the day without glasses or daytime contact lenses. Ortho-k is prescribed and monitored as part of a medical myopia management plan.
Why Families Consider Ortho-K?
Many families explore ortho-k for two main reasons: it can provide clear daytime vision without glasses, and it may support a plan to manage myopia progression. Ortho-k can be especially appealing for children who are active in sports or who dislike wearing glasses during the day. Our role is to help you understand whether it is appropriate for your child and what the process involves.
How Ortho-K Works Within Myopia Management
Ortho-k is not a simple product purchase. It is a structured care plan that includes precise measurements, customized lens design, and follow-up visits. Because myopia can change as children grow, monitoring is essential. Our eye doctor tracks vision, prescription changes, and eye health over time so we can adjust the plan as needed.
At Eye See Optique - Arlington, we use detailed diagnostic tools, including corneal topography, to help measure the shape of the cornea and guide fitting and follow-up care.
Who May Be a Good Candidate for Ortho-K?
Ortho-K may be considered for children and teens with myopia who are able to follow a consistent nightly wear routine. Candidacy depends on prescription, eye health, corneal measurements, and lifestyle needs. During your consultation, we review your child's history and measurements, then explain whether Ortho-K is an appropriate option or whether another myopia management approach may be a better fit.
What to Expect at Your Ortho-K Consultation
Ortho-k begins with a comprehensive evaluation and discussion with the parent or guardian. We review your child's prescription history, assess eye health, and take measurements used to guide lens design. If ortho-k is recommended, we explain the fitting process, nighttime wear routine, cleaning and care expectations, and the follow-up schedule.
Our optometrist'goal is to make the plan clear and manageable, so families know what is required and what we will monitor.
Ortho-K requires regular follow-up visits to confirm lens fit, assess vision, and monitor eye health. These visits also allow us to make adjustments as your child grows and visual needs change. Ongoing care supports comfort, safety, and consistent daytime clarity.