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What is Ortho-K Treatment and how does it compared to LASIK?

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Ortho-K Treatment is the use of specially designed molds to gently reshape the front surface of the eye (called the cornea) to eliminate or reduce nearsightedness (myopia) or astigmatism. The treatment is involves no surgery (LASIK) and is completely safe. The principle is similar to the use of a dental retainer used by an orthodontist to realign teeth.

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The molds are worn at night while sleeping and are then removed upon awakening to provide crystal clear vision without using eyeglasses or contact lenses! The retainers are comfortable and very easy to care for.

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Ortho-K Treatment versus LASIK

While most people have heard of LASIK, the Ortho-K Treatment is not new. Ortho-K treatment is completely safe and totally reversible. The treatment has been FDA approved since 2002 but is now gaining popularity due to the increase in doctors trained in the area. Ortho-K treatment is so safe, that Dr. Nguyen is comfortable performing the procedure for children as young as 8 years old.

Cons of LASIK vs. Ortho-K Treatment

  • LASIK is requires stable vision for a number of years and you must be over 18 years of age. This makes the procedure a poor option for younger athletes who still need the benefits of clear vision

  • LASIK is still a surgical procedure and there is still some risk involved. There is no guarantee that the there won’t be permanent side effects or other complications.

  • Complications from LASIK can include halos from lights, glare, consistent dry eye, or in some cases even reduced vision that can impact athletic performance

 

Benefits of Ortho-K vs. LASIK

Ortho-K is a great option for all ages including adults, teens, and children. Ortho-K can give all athletes clear vision without any of these permanent complications. The treatment also has no more risk from complications then regular soft contact lenses.

  • Ortho-K is ideal for patients of all ages, including children. LASIK is only performed after the age of 18.

  • Ortho-K can help control the progression of myopia so that a child’s vision doesn’t get worse

  • There is no post-operative pain with Orthokeratology and therefore no need for post-operative medications like steroids or antibiotics.

  • It is easy to modify your contact lenses should there be an increase in nearsightedness after beginning Ortho-K. Laser surgery would require a surgical re-correction.

  • Ortho-K is about 1/2 the cost of LASIK

  • Ortho-K is completely reversible should you not be satisfied with the results. LASIK and the side effects from it are not reversible.

  • Our program can be done even if your prescription has been increasing. LASIK surgery should only be done if your prescription has been stable for at least one year.

 

What are the next steps?

Please call our office at 718-355-9656 for more information on Ortho-K Treatment or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Diana Nguyen, OD.

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