Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) and Corneal Reshaping Therapy (CRT)
Corneal Reshaping is a non-surgical process which gently reshapes the cornea (front surface of the eye) using special gas permeable contact lenses. This process eliminates or reduces the need for glasses or contact lenses during the waking hours. The contact lenses are designed for individuals with low to moderate nearsightedness, with or without mild astigmatism.
Corneal Reshaping lenses are great for children and adults with active lifestyles. The contact lenses are only worn while sleeping. They are removed upon awakening and provide clear vision without using glasses or contact lenses. Parents don.t have to worry about their children breaking their glasses or losing contact lenses during the day. Most importantly, recent research has showed that corneal reshaping can effectively slow down a child's eyesight from deteriorating.
Unlike refractive surgery such as LASIK, orthokeratology is reversible. People wearing reshaping lenses and later choose to undergo refractive surgery instead can do so by discontinuing wearing the lenses for a one to two months.
Dr. Tan is currently a corneal reshaping contact lens wearer. Call our office or stop by for more information. We can schedule an evaluation to find out if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
Additional links:
http://www.paragoncrt.com/consumers/index.asp
http://www.allaboutvision.com/contacts/orthok.htm#works
http://www.optom.unsw.edu.au/research/rokindex.html