The Secret Non-Surgical Solution to Perfect Vision
Sep. 22, 2016 | By Dr. Brill | In: Overnight Corneal Reshaping
We’re sharing the secret surgery-free solution to perfect vision that’s a secret no more! Let’s take a look at this overnight sensation in vision correction called Corneal Reshaping.
What Is Overnight Corneal Reshaping?
Overnight Corneal Reshaping (OCR) corrects vision with contact lenses worn overnight to change the shape of the cornea, eliminating the need for daytime glasses and contact lenses. That’s right, no surgery needed! You may have heard this process called by other names: Orthokeratology (OK or Ortho-K), Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT), Vision Shaping Treatment (VST), Gentle Molding, or other variations.
What Is Myopia?
Also commonly known as nearsightedness, myopia is a growing phenomenon around the world. Bruce H. Koffler, MD states:
“Myopia prevalence is increasing rapidly around the world. East Asia is the most affected region, but rapidly rising rates or myopia can be found throughout the developed world.
The explosion of near-vision tasks to which children have been subjected in developed countries is thought to be behind the rising rates of myopia.”
How Does Orthokeratology Work?
Think of OCR as a coach for your eyeballs. Just as a personal trainer helps you shape and define your muscles, OCR reshapes the cornea. All you have to do is wear the specially designed oxygen permeable contact lenses for six to eight hours overnight. The lenses temporarily correct myopia and astigmatism by gently reshaping the cornea while you sleep. Newer designs can be made for hyperopia (farsightedness) and presbyopia (trouble focusing at the reading distance after age 40), too.
In a recent article in Optometry Times, Christina Newman, OD, FAAO explains
“The lenses are worn while the patient sleeps, molding the cornea so the patient has less dependence on glasses or contact lenses throughout the day. It is important to achieve the right fit because it will allow the cornea to preserve this flattened shape when the lenses are removed and provide the patient with stable, uncorrected vision throughout the course of the day.
Most refractive errors should reach full correction within two weeks. Initially, the patient may experience slight regression toward the end of the day, but this should diminish over time.”
Who Is a Candidate for OCR?
Patients who find their active lifestyles aren’t compatible with wearing daytime contact lenses or glasses, such as those who wear safety glasses and helmets every day, are prime candidates. Are you or your loved ones on this brief list?
- Swimmers
- Skiers
- Children
- Quidditch players (and other student-athletes)
- Cyclists
- Motorcycle enthusiasts
- Police, Fire and Rescue professionals
- Chemists and other laboratory professionals
Are OCR Lenses Expensive?
The cost of corneal reshaping depends on the patient’s case. It usually is 50% of LASIK surgery or about $1,600-$3,500 as compared to $4,000-$7,000 for LASIK, based on your location.
Can Any Eye Doctor Prescribe OCR Lenses?
No, they must be certified and credentialed to fit each of the brands of lenses. The Fellow of the Orthokeratology Academy of America (FOAA) distinction from the American Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control will signal that your doctor has met additional rigors of testing in addition to the Doctor of Optometry, O.D. degree.
Want to Learn More?
Brill Eye Center has an excellent staff to assist you and care for your eye health. Dr. Raymond Brill has nearly 40 years of experience helping and treating more than 70,000 patients.