Q- Is this new?

A- The basic principles of ortho-K have been known for 45 years. However the procedure has greatly improved and new hi-tech materials and lens designs are available. OOK was born in Australia in 1999 and is avaliable in Quebec since 2002.

Q- Is it unconfortable?

A- Not for most patients since the lens is only worn at night and does not move on the cornea.

Q- Would it be possible to use soft contact lenses?

A- Only specially-designed semi-hard lenses can modify the curvature of the cornea. Soft contact lenses do not reduce nor stop the evolution of near-sightedness. Furthermore, semi-hard lenses let more oxygen through than soft lenses. However, in severe cases, it is possible to use a combination of semi-hard lenses at night, and soft ones during the day for the residual myopia.

A- In the past 45 years, hundreds of thousans of patients have been treated for Orthokeratology, and studies done by six major American universities have found the procedure to be safe, effective, non-destructive for the eye tissues and risk-free for the health of the eyes as long as it is performed by an experienced doctor. Of course, proper hygiene and regular check-ups with your orthokeratologist are necessary to ensure eye health and the effectiveness of the treatment.

A- My youngest patient started at age 7 and my eldest patient is 69.

A- Absolutely! Orthokeratology, with the proper hygiene, can help diminish the existing myopia and stabilize the progression to a minimal level, at any age and for any degree of myopia.

A- One of the great differences between ortho-k and surgery is that ortho-k does not permanently alter the cornea. If the retainer is not worn, the cornea reverts to its original shape. This "non-permanence" is in fact a major advantage since it garantees the safety of the procedure and the absolute control over the desired effects. In the advent of an unwanted effect, a cessation of treatment or the future discovery of a better procedure, merely removing the lenses allows the eyes to revert to their original state, as opposed to surgery which is irreversible.

A- To benefit from a better vision, possibly perfect, without glasses or contact lenses during the day for mild to moderate myopias.

• For a substantial reduction of severe myopias.
• For a more effective control over progressive myopias in chidren.
• For recreational, athletic or professional occupations that require better vision.