Hello, this is Goyang Shinsegae Eye Clinic.
Many parents become concerned when they notice their child’s vision gradually worsening. They may wonder whether their child should begin wearing glasses or consider orthokeratology lenses, commonly known as Ortho-K or Dream Lenses.
We frequently receive questions such as:
“When is the best time to start Ortho-K lenses?”
“Is my child suitable for them?”
These questions become more common when a child’s vision begins to decline rapidly after entering elementary school.
Ortho-K lenses are not used solely to help children see clearly during the day without glasses. They are also one of the available methods for managing the progression of myopia during childhood.
Today, we will address the questions parents most frequently ask during consultations and explain what to consider when managing a child’s vision.
Q1. What Are Ortho-K Lenses for Children?
Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight while the child sleeps and removed in the morning.
They temporarily reshape the cornea during sleep, helping the child see clearly during the day without glasses or conventional contact lenses.
They may also be used to help manage the progression of myopia in growing children. For this reason, an increasing number of parents are considering them as part of their child’s vision management plan.
However, Ortho-K lenses are not suitable for every child. A thorough examination of the child’s vision, corneal shape, and overall eye condition is required before determining whether they are appropriate.
Q2. When Is the Best Time to Start Ortho-K Lenses in Ilsan?
This is one of the questions parents ask most frequently.
“Would it be okay to wait until my child is a little older?”
Myopia can progress rapidly while a child is growing. If it has already advanced considerably, the range of prescriptions that can be corrected with Ortho-K lenses may be limited.
For this reason, it is important not to miss the appropriate time for an examination at a pediatric eye clinic in Ilsan.
If a child’s vision begins to decline around the time they enter elementary school, a comprehensive eye examination can help assess their current condition and determine an appropriate vision management plan.
Q3. Is It Difficult to Use Ortho-K Lenses for the First Time?
Unlike conventional soft contact lenses, Ortho-K lenses are made of a rigid material. Children may therefore find them unfamiliar or uncomfortable at first.
However, after receiving proper instructions and practicing several times, many children gradually become comfortable inserting and removing the lenses on their own.
The basic steps are as follows:
| Step | Instructions |
| Wash hands | Wash hands thoroughly with soap. |
| Inspect the lens | Check that the lens is facing the correct way and is not damaged. |
| Open the eye widely | Look straight ahead and hold the upper and lower eyelids open. |
| Place the lens centrally | Gently place the lens in the center of the cornea. |
A parent may need to assist at first. Depending on how quickly the child adapts, they may gradually learn to manage the lenses independently.
Q4. What Should Parents Help Manage?
Proper hygiene is essential when using Ortho-K lenses.
Even after a child learns to handle the lenses independently, continued parental supervision is recommended.
Parents should regularly check the following:
▶ Make sure the lenses are cleaned and stored correctly.
▶ Check for damage or contamination.
▶ Look for redness, discomfort, or other unusual symptoms after wear.
▶ Attend scheduled follow-up examinations.
For younger elementary school children, it can be helpful for a parent to assist with lens cleaning and care.
Q5. How Long Should Ortho-K Lenses Be Used?
One of the purposes of Ortho-K lenses is to help manage myopia progression while a child is growing.
Myopia often progresses during periods of physical growth. Many children continue using the lenses until their growth and vision changes begin to stabilize.
The appropriate period of use differs from one child to another. It should be determined in consultation with an ophthalmologist while monitoring changes in vision and physical growth.
The lenses may also need to be replaced depending on their condition, fit, and changes in prescription. Regular eye examinations are therefore necessary.
Q6. Why Should Ortho-K Lenses Be Fitted at Goyang Shinsegae Eye Clinic or Another Pediatric Eye Clinic in Ilsan?
✔ An ophthalmologist determines the appropriate lens curvature and power based on detailed measurements of the child’s eyes.
✔ Access to various Ortho-K brands and models allows the lenses to be fitted according to each child’s individual eye condition.
✔ Staff members guide children at an age-appropriate level and provide a comfortable environment. This can help children who feel anxious about wearing lenses adjust more easily.
✔ A complimentary one-week trial allows parents and children to assess comfort, adaptation, and vision correction before making a final decision.
Every child has a different eye condition and adjusts at a different pace. Thorough consultation, accurate testing, and consistent follow-up care are all important.
If you are concerned about your child’s vision, consider scheduling a consultation to develop a vision management plan suited to their individual needs.
Thank you.
