How do I get started with Orthokeratology?

 

It starts with booking in for an initial comprehensive eye examination. Additional measurements will be taken at this visit. Our optometrist eye doctors will discuss the expected course of treatment, treatment outcome and the anticipated cost of treatment before scheduling an Orthokeratology Assessment.

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The Orthokeratology Assessment appointment is where the candidate will experience wearing the corneal retainers. The eligibility for orthokeratology is determined based on their corneal response. The cost of treatment for the first year and subsequent years will be advised.

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When the eligibility and outcome is favourable, the corneal retainers are designed and ordered which can take 2-3 weeks.

 

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What is involved in Orthokeratology Treatment?

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Once treatment is commenced, a number of scheduled appointments are required.

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This involves the fitting and instruction appointment, the 1 week assessment, the 2 week assessment, the 3 and/or 4 week assessment, the 2 month assessment, the 6 month assessment, then every 6 months.

 

The corneal moulds are replaced every 12 months. Regular checks are performed at 6 and 12 months.

 

The person or child is expected to sleep in the corneal retainers every night including on holidays and during school camps.

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​Their vision is expected to be clear and uninterrupted for 1-2 days after removal of their corneal retainers, thereby allowing them to skip wear for 1 night while travelling on long haul flights.

 

Often spare lenses are recommended but not required.

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How long does it take for the treatment to result in clear vision?
 

At the commencement of treatment, a transition period occurs where our prescription is being reduced with every night of wear. One can expect that it will take up to 1 week for their prescription to be reduced by 80%. Often this means that after 1 week, their vision will be sufficiently clear for them to be functional in their daily activities. This includes school, work, driving and playing sports. 

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It can take a further 2 - 3 weeks for the remaining 20% of their vision to be completely corrected. 

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