Can Ortho-K slow my child's myopia?

Yes, studies show Ortho-K can slow myopia progression in many children, but it does not stop myopia in everyone [2] .

Is sleeping in Ortho-K lenses safe?

It can be safe with careful fitting and strict hygiene, but overnight lens wear carries infection risk.

Can adults use Ortho-K?

Yes. Adults can use Ortho-K for daytime glasses-free vision if their cornea and prescription fit.

Treatment

Orthokeratology

Also known as Ortho-K, Overnight Contact Lenses, Corneal Reshaping Lenses, Myopia Control Contacts, Night Lenses

Updated May 16, 2026·For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for medical advice. See our terms.

Bottom Line

Orthokeratology uses custom rigid contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. It can give clear daytime vision and slow myopia progression in some children, but safe lens hygiene is critical.

Orthokeratology, often called Ortho-K, uses specially designed rigid gas-permeable lenses while sleeping. The lenses temporarily flatten the center of the cornea, so many patients see better during the day without glasses or daytime contacts.

Clinical reviews find that orthokeratology can slow myopia progression in children, especially by slowing eye-length growth ¹. Meta-analyses of randomized trials also support a myopia-control effect, though results vary by age, baseline myopia, and adherence ².

The main safety issue is infection. Overnight lens wear raises the stakes, so patients must clean lenses exactly as instructed and stop wear for any painful red eye ³.

Safety and Infection Risk

The most important Ortho-K risk is microbial keratitis, a corneal infection. Safety reviews focus on lens hygiene, avoiding water exposure, and stopping lenses for pain or redness ³.

Stop lenses and call the eye doctor the same day for a red painful eye, light sensitivity, discharge, or blurry vision.

Cost and Insurance

Ortho-K is usually elective and often paid out of pocket. Costs vary by region and include fitting, corneal topography, starter lenses, replacement lenses, and follow-up visits. Some vision plans may reimburse a portion.

Who May Not Be a Good Fit

Active eye infection or painful red eye.
Poor lens hygiene or use of tap water with lenses.
Severe dry eye or allergy not controlled.
Very irregular corneas unless the specialist specifically recommends it.

Common Questions About Orthokeratology

No. The corneal shape change is temporary. Vision usually drifts back if lens wear stops.

Next Steps

1Book a consultation with an optometrist or ophthalmologist experienced in Ortho-K fitting.
2Ask for corneal topography and a clear hygiene plan before starting.
3Never rinse lenses with tap water or sleep in a lens that hurts.
4Stop lenses and call the eye doctor the same day for redness, pain, discharge, light sensitivity, or blurry vision.

Find specialists for Orthokeratology

Board-certified ophthalmologists who treat Orthokeratology.

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Also relevant

Cornea and External Disease