Myopia Control for Children
 

Orthokeratology & Modern Myopia Management
 

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back. As the eye elongates, distant objects appear blurry while near vision remains clear.
 

While glasses and contact lenses can correct vision, they do not stop the progression of myopia. Higher levels of myopia are associated with increased lifetime risk of serious eye conditions including:

• Retinal detachment

• Glaucoma

• Myopic macular degeneration

• Early cataracts
   

Because of these risks, controlling the progression of myopia during childhood has become an important focus in modern eye care.
 

At Santa Clara Vision Center, our doctors specialize in myopia management for children and young adults, offering advanced treatment options designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness and protect long-term eye health.

 

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Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

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One of the most effective treatments available for myopia control is Orthokeratology, often referred to as Ortho-K.
 

Orthokeratology uses specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that are worn overnight while sleeping. These lenses gently reshape the surface of the eye so that clear vision is possible during the day without glasses or contact lenses.

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When the lenses are removed in the morning, patients are able to see clearly throughout the day.

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Orthokeratology is:

• Non-surgical

• Reversible

• Safe when properly monitored

• Highly effective for slowing myopia progression

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For many children, Ortho-K provides the additional benefit of freedom from glasses or daytime contact lenses during school, sports, and activities.

 

How Orthokeratology Works

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During sleep, the specially designed contact lens gently reshapes the front surface of the eye called the cornea.

This temporary reshaping changes how light focuses inside the eye, allowing clear vision during waking hours.
 

The treatment works through a controlled and carefully measured flattening of the cornea. Because the reshaping effect is temporary, the lenses must be worn regularly at night to maintain clear daytime vision.

Most patients experience clear vision throughout the day after wearing the lenses overnight.


 

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Who Can Benefit from Orthokeratology?
 

Orthokeratology can be an excellent option for many patients, particularly children with progressive myopia.

It may be especially beneficial for:

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• Children with progressing nearsightedness: Orthokeratology has been shown to slow the elongation of the eye, which helps reduce the rate of myopia progression.

• Active children and athletes: Because lenses are worn only at night, children can enjoy clear vision during sports and daily activities without glasses.

• Patients with contact lens discomfort: Some patients experience irritation from daytime soft contact lenses and prefer a nighttime solution.

• Patients not ready for LASIK: Orthokeratology provides clear vision without surgery and is completely reversibleWhen properly fit and monitored by an experienced optometrist, the safety profile of orthokeratology is similar to that of traditional contact lenses.
  
   

The Orthokeratology Process
 

The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation to determine if orthokeratology is appropriate.

1. Step 1: Eye Examination
   Your doctor will evaluate overall eye health and measure your current prescription.
    

2. Step 2: Corneal Mapping
   Advanced imaging technology measures the exact shape of the cornea to design custom orthokeratology lenses.
    

3. Step 3: Custom Lens Design
   Specially designed lenses are created to precisely reshape the cornea during sleep.
    

4. Step 4: Training and First Night Wear
   Patients are trained on lens insertion, removal, and care. The lenses are then worn overnight.
    

5. Step 5: Follow-Up Visits
   Follow-up appointments allow the doctor to monitor the eye's response and ensure optimal results. These visits typically occur the next morning, then at one week, one month, and three months.
    

Because each patient’s eyes respond differently, adjustments may occasionally be required to achieve the best vision and myopia control.
 

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Myopia Management in Santa Clara

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Myopia often progresses throughout childhood and teenage years. Early intervention can significantly reduce long-term risks associated with high myopia.
 

At Santa Clara Vision Center, our doctors work closely with families to monitor vision changes and implement personalized myopia management plans designed to protect children’s long-term vision.

If you are interested in learning more about orthokeratology or other myopia control treatments, our team would be happy to discuss whether your child may benefit from this advanced treatment.

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Schedule a Myopia Consultation Today!

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To learn more about myopia control or orthokeratology in Santa Clara, contact our office today.

Call or Text (408) 247-2600 or email us at staff@santaclaravision.com

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