Myopia Control

Nearsightedness Treatments and Myopia Control in Mesa

Myopia is a condition in which light is improperly focused in front of the retina (instead of directly on the retina) due to the surface of a person’s eye either being too steep or too long.

The effects of myopia, more commonly referred to as nearsightedness, can be temporarily reversed using corneal refractive therapy (Ortho-k) contact lenses at night while you sleep. These contact lenses are analogous to Invisalign for your teeth, except instead of gently moving your teeth over time these Ortho-k contact lenses reshape your cornea.

You’ll need to wear these contact lenses every night when you sleep, as their reshaping effects will wear off in one to two days if you stop utilizing them. Ortho-k is not a permanent nearsightedness solution, but it can allow you to enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the use of glasses or contacts.  

Can Other Vision Problems Be Corrected with Overnight Contact Lenses?

Some people with nearsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia may also be good candidates for Ortho-k contact lenses, but these overnight contacts are primarily prescribed for myopia control.  

Who Is a Good Candidate for Ortho-K Contact Lenses for Myopia Control?

Most people with nearsightedness are good candidates for Ortho-k corneal refractive therapy. Your optometrist may recommend alternative myopia control therapies if you are currently on certain types of prescription medications or if you have dry eyes or large pupils.

Are There Permanent Treatments for Myopia?



Some patients may also be candidates for Lasik surgery to correct myopia. However, you may not be able to undergo Lasik surgery if you are currently using Ortho-k contact lenses. If patients using Ortho-k wish to undergo Lasik surgery, they may need to stop using the contact lenses for a month or two to allow the reshaping effects to entirely wear off prior to the procedure.