Ortho-K and Lasik surgery are 2 fundamentally different approaches to vision correction. Ortho-K is a rigid gas-permeable contact lens that is usually applied to the cornea for a prolonged period overnight whilst the patient is sleeping.
It aims to re-shape the cornea to provide clear vision in the morning when the lens is removed. It's advantage is that no surgery is required, and the application is done overnight whilst the patient is sleeping and hence unawares.
There is also some evidence to support its role in reducing the rate of myopia progression when used in young children / adolescents.
However the disadvantages are not insignificant, in that it carries the risk of cornea damage and hypoxia since the contact lens is worn overnight, increasing the risk of serious eye infections. During the day, the power of the eye will fluctuate as the power regresses back to the pre-treatment prescription.
After consideration of the potential risks and benefits, we do not offer this service as the significant risks do not outweigh its purported benefits. We do offer low-dose Atropine eyedrops for myopia retardation in children though.
Lasik on the other hand is a surgical procedure that involves re-shaping of the cornea using an excimer laser. It is permanent and carries the potential risks of any surgical procedure namely the rare occurrence of flap complications, over or under correction of the desired power, glare or haloes in low-light conditions as well as dry eyes.
This procedure can only be performed on patients once their refraction is stable for a minimum of 2 years. and with no other ocular problems including cataracts.
In comparison to Ortho-K, vision is stable throughout the day and does not need any after-care one the post-operative period is over.
Again however, you should discuss your options with your ophthalmologist after a detailed examination. This will allow a fully tailored solution for your vision needs!
