13 Tips for Inserting and Removing Ortho-K Lenses

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses, also known as corneal reshaping lenses, are specially designed contact lenses that temporarily reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

The lenses are typically worn overnight while you sleep, and they gently reshape the cornea through pressure, correcting your vision by allowing light to properly focus on the retina. The effect of the lenses is temporary, so they must be worn every night or on a prescribed schedule to maintain the effect.

Ortho-K lenses have become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative to traditional glasses and contact lenses or refractive surgery. They are especially popular for people who lead an active lifestyle, have difficulty wearing glasses or contact lenses during the day, or want to avoid the risks associated with refractive surgery. Due to the rise in popularity of these lenses, it’s imperative that you have a clear understanding of how to insert and remove them.

Do Ortho-K Lenses Help Treat Myopia?
Ortho-k lenses are particularly useful for children who have progressive myopia, as they can slow down the rate of progression. This is important, as high levels of myopia can increase the risk of eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment later in life.

One of the advantages of ortho-k lenses is that they are non-invasive and do not require surgery. They are also reversible, meaning that if the treatment is discontinued, the cornea will return to its original shape and the refractive error will return. Additionally, ortho-k lenses can be more convenient for some people who do not want to wear glasses or traditional contact lenses during the day.

It is important to note that ortho-k lenses require a commitment to regular wear and care, and they may not be suitable for everyone. A thorough eye exam and consultation with an eye care professional can help determine if ortho-k lenses are a good option for treating your myopia.

 

Inserting and Removing Ortho-K Lenses vs. Traditional Contacts

The process of inserting or removing Ortho-K lenses is different from traditional contact lenses. Inserting Ortho-K lenses requires more precision and time than soft contact lenses. Ortho-K lenses are custom-made to fit the shape of your cornea, and they are designed to create a temporary reshaping effect that corrects vision problems. Therefore, inserting Ortho-K lenses requires a specific technique to ensure that the lens is properly positioned and centered on the cornea. Additionally, the process of inserting Ortho-K lenses may take longer than traditional contact lenses because it involves applying specific amounts of solution and positioning the lens carefully on the eye.

Removing Ortho-K lenses also requires a different technique than traditional contact lenses. Ortho-K lenses create a suction effect on the eye, which can make them more challenging to remove than traditional contact lenses. To remove Ortho-K lenses, you may need to use a suction cup tool (DMV) provided by your eye doctor. Alternatively, you can use your fingers to gently pinch the lens and lift it off your eye. However, it’s important to avoid pulling the lens forcefully or applying too much pressure to avoid damaging your eyes or the lens.

In contrast, soft contact lenses are designed to be more user-friendly and easier to insert and remove than Ortho-K lenses. Traditional soft contact lenses are made of soft materials and can be inserted or removed quickly with minimal effort. The process of inserting traditional contact lenses involves washing your hands, placing the lens on your fingertip, and then gently placing the lens on your eye. To remove traditional contact lenses, you can simply use your fingers to pinch the lens and lift it off your eye.

Overall, the process of inserting or removing Ortho-K lenses requires more precision and specific techniques than traditional contact lenses. However, with proper training and practice, inserting and removing Ortho-K lenses can become more comfortable and easier. It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your eye doctor and to seek their guidance if you experience any difficulties or discomfort.

 

Inserting Ortho-K Lenses: What You Need to Know

Inserting Ortho-K lenses can take some practice, but it can be done easily with a few tips:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the lenses to avoid transferring dirt, bacteria, or oils to the lenses.
2. Use the right amount of solution to wet the lens. Avoid using too much or too little solution, as this can affect the fit of the lens.
3. Hold the lens on the tip of your index finger with the concave side facing up. Make sure the lens is centered on your finger.
4. Use your other hand to pull down your lower eyelid gently. Look up and position the lens on your eye.
5. Once the lens is in place, gently release your eyelid and close your eye slowly. Blink several times to ensure that the lens is centered and in the correct position.
6. Repeat the process for the other eye.
7. Follow the recommended wearing and cleaning schedule prescribed by your eye doctor.

It may take some time to get used to inserting Ortho-K lenses, so don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries. Remember to be patient, gentle, and consistent with your technique. If you continue to have difficulty inserting your lenses, contact your eye doctor for further guidance.

 

How Do You Remove Ortho-K Lenses?

Removing Ortho-K lenses can also take some practice, but it can be done easily with a few tips:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the lenses to avoid transferring dirt, bacteria, or oils to the lenses.
2. Stand in front of a mirror and use a towel to cover the sink or counter to avoid losing the lens if it falls out.
3. Use your index finger and thumb to gently pinch the lens and lift it off your eye. Alternatively, you can use a suction cup tool provided by your eye doctor to remove the lens.
4. If you are having trouble removing the lens, try blinking a few times or using a few drops of lubricating eye drops to help loosen the lens.
5. Once the lens is removed, place it in a clean lens case filled with disinfecting solution.
6. Follow the recommended cleaning and storing instructions prescribed by your eye doctor.

It may take some time to get used to removing Ortho-K lenses, so don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries. Remember to be patient, gentle, and consistent with your technique. If you continue to have difficulty removing your lenses, contact your eye doctor for further guidance.