ORTHOKERATOLOGY FAQ

Is everyone a candidate for OrthoK & can all doctors do this technique? Unfortunately, no. It will not work as well for levels of myopia above -8.00, and needs to be done in a very exact, step-by-step manner. Dr. Gerowitz has received Fellowship level training and has the necessary diagnostic equipment to perform OrthoK. There are no age barriers for GSS. It is safe for children and adults and may slow down nearsightedness from increasing!  
 

What does the OrthoK program involve?

We start with a comprehensive vision/eye health exam. Then, a computerized map of your corneal topography mapping is obtained to design the OrthoK molds.

When you pick up your molds, you will be trained on how to use and care for them. The maintenance is very easy. After we check how they fit, you can wear them that night. The next morning, you’ll come back to our office and we will recheck the results of your first night of treatment.

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If any change in the design of your initial molds is needed, we will reorder new ones for you (at no charge) to help you achieve your best vision possible. Even after you are seeing well, we will continue to monitor your eyes to ensure good eye health. Most patients are done with their initial fitting within three months, but due to factors like original prescription and corneal flexibility the speed of treatment varies from patient to patient. When treatment is complete, the molds are worn nightly to maintain daytime clarity.

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How often will I need to be seen?

Patients should allow for 6 visits during the first three months of the program. Also, should you stop wearing your molds, your vision will slowly return to its original prescription. 

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What’s included in the OrthoK program?
The first year program fee includes a comprehensive eye exam, a retinal exam, topography,  mold design and fitting, insertion, removal, and care instruction; and all of the professional visits and molds needed to safely achieve optimal vision.  

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What should I expect from Dr. Rob's OrthoK program?

Without a doubt, starting an Orthokeratology program is one of the most exciting things you can do. One day you’re wearing glasses and the next you’ve forgotten how you used to see prior to your treatment. 

If you’ve ever worn a ring on your hand and pulled it down to your first knuckle, you may have noticed that the skin under the ring has been flattened. You didn’t lose skin and the process of wearing the ring most likely didn’t hurt at all. You reshaped your finger by using a rigid mold (the ring). The same thing happens to the clear (skin-like) tissue of your cornea under your molds.

Using this same analogy, depending on how long you’ve worn this ring determines how long your finger retains this new shape. Typically, the longer a patient is on their program, the longer their retention of vision correction is. Recent research has shown the most effective way to maintain myopia control in children is to have them wear their molds every night. 

Patient expectations are by far the largest factor as regards a successful outcome. Those who wish to have clear, functional vision; be free of glasses and daytime contact lenses; and slow down their children’s progressive myopia will find OrthoK is a miraculous treatment.

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Improvement in vision has been noted in some patients in as little as ten to fifteen minutes of wearing time. The average patient should expect to see markedly better after just one night on OrthoK. It is not unusual for vision to gradually “fade’ by the end of the first day; however, it will not be like flipping a switch, and retention increases the longer one is on their program.

Patients will initially be aware of their molds prior to sleep; this feeling will dissipate over the first few days and, many patients describe not feeling their molds at all. And yes, you will be able to see with them on. 
 

How do I find out more?
That’s easy. Just call Dr. Rob at 847.421.4444 to schedule a complimentary OrthoK consultation