How Orthokeratology Can Help Control Your Child's Myopia

If your child’s prescription seems to be getting stronger every year, you’re not alone. Many parents in Irvine and surrounding areas are noticing the same trend—kids who need glasses at an early age and find themselves struggling with worsening nearsightedness (myopia). It’s a growing concern, but the good news is that there are ways to slow it down. One of the most effective options available is orthokeratology (Ortho-K)—a non-surgical, overnight treatment that helps control myopia progression.

Understanding Myopia Progression

Myopia isn’t just about needing glasses. When the eye elongates too much, light doesn’t focus properly on the retina, causing distant objects to appear blurry. More than just an inconvenience, progressive myopia increases the risk of future eye diseases like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. For families in Irvine, where kids are often engaged in academics and screen time, controlling myopia early is crucial. The goal isn’t just about improving eyesight—it’s about protecting long-term eye health.

What Is Orthokeratology?

Ortho-K involves custom-designed, gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight while your child sleeps. These lenses gently reshape the cornea, temporarily correcting nearsightedness so your child can see clearly during the day without needing glasses or contacts.

Unlike traditional glasses or daytime contact lenses that simply correct vision, Ortho-K goes a step further—it has been shown to slow down the progression of myopia in children. For many parents in Orange County, this makes a significant difference in managing their child’s eye health over the years.

Why Consider Ortho-K for Your Child?

• Non-Surgical and Safe – Unlike LASIK, which is not recommended for children, Ortho-K is completely reversible.

• Clear Vision Without Daytime Glasses or Contacts – Great for active kids who play sports, swim, or just don’t like wearing glasses.

• Slows Myopia Progression – Studies show that Ortho-K can significantly reduce the rate at which nearsightedness worsens.

• Ideal for Screen Time and Academics – In a tech-heavy world, kids in Irvine spend hours on screens for school and entertainment. Ortho-K can help protect their eyes from worsening strain and elongation.

Is Ortho-K Right for Your Child?

Ortho-K is best suited for children with mild to moderate myopia who are still experiencing progression. If your child’s prescription has been increasing every year, it’s worth considering this option early to keep their prescription from climbing too high.

We work closely with families to evaluate whether Ortho-K is the right fit. Our advanced technology allows us to map your child’s cornea and design customized lenses to give them the best results possible.

Invest in Your Child’s Future Eye Health

Nearsightedness doesn’t have to take over your child’s vision. With Ortho-K, you can take control of myopia progression and give your child clear, comfortable vision without daytime glasses or contacts.

To learn more about how Ortho-K can benefit your child, schedule a consultation at Canyon Optometry today. Visit our office in Irvine, California, or call (949) 559-5905 to book an appointment.