If your child is nearsighted and tired of wearing glasses, there’s a safe, non-surgical solution that works while they sleep. It’s called ortho-k, and it’s changing how children in Brooklyn manage myopia, no glasses or daytime contacts needed.
What Is Ortho-K?
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) uses custom-fitted, gas-permeable contact lenses that are worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the surface of the cornea while your child sleeps. In the morning, the lenses come out, and they can see clearly all day without needing glasses or contacts.
It’s completely reversible, safe for children, and especially effective for those with mild to moderate myopia (nearsightedness).
Why More Brooklyn Parents Are Choosing Ortho-K
Myopia is more than just blurry vision, it’s a progressive condition. As children grow, their nearsightedness can worsen, increasing their risk for serious eye diseases later in life, like glaucoma, retinal detachment, and macular degeneration.
Ortho-K does two important things:
- Corrects your child’s vision during the day
- Slows the progression of their myopia over time
At Couture Optical, our Brooklyn optometrists are experienced in ortho-k fittings and myopia management for children and teens. We use advanced corneal mapping technology to design the lenses and ensure a perfect, comfortable fit.
Is Ortho-K Safe for Children?
Yes—ortho-k is a safe, non-invasive option that’s been used in pediatric eye care for decades. With proper hygiene and follow-up, it’s a well-tolerated treatment that helps reduce a child’s dependence on glasses while also managing long-term eye health.
Our team at Couture Optical teaches both children and parents how to insert, remove, and care for their lenses at home. And because the lenses are only worn at night, children don’t have to worry about glasses breaking at school or losing contacts during sports and activities.
The Benefits of Ortho-K for Active Children
For many children, glasses are inconvenient, uncomfortable, or simply unwanted. If your child plays sports, dances, swims, or just doesn’t want to deal with glasses on their face, ortho-k can offer freedom they didn’t think was possible.
Here’s what Brooklyn parents and children love about ortho-k:
- No glasses during the day
- No contact lenses to wear at school or sports
- Slower progression of nearsightedness
- Better long-term protection against high myopia complications
And the best part? Your child wakes up with clear vision every morning.
Why Start Ortho-K Early?
Myopia typically starts in school-age children and progresses through the teenage years. The earlier we start managing it, the better chance we have of keeping the prescription low and preserving healthy eyes for the future.
Starting ortho-k early can:
- Slow myopia progression more effectively
- Reduce the likelihood of needing thick glasses or risky surgery later
- Improve confidence and independence at a young age
At Couture Optical, we believe every child deserves the chance to see clearly, without limits.
Give Your Child the Gift of Clear Sight
Book an ortho-k consultation at Couture Optical or call our Brooklyn offices at 718-619-8855 (86th St) or 718-975-4824 (65th St). Our friendly team is ready to help your child see clearly, confidently, and comfortably.
FAQs About Ortho-K for Children
1. At what age can my child start Ortho-K?
Most children can begin ortho-k around age 7 or 8, depending on their eye health and maturity. The earlier myopia is managed, the better the long-term results.
2. Does Ortho-K hurt or feel uncomfortable?
The lenses are designed for overnight wear and are generally comfortable. Some children notice the lenses when they first start, but most adjust within a few nights.
3. How long do the lenses last?
Ortho-K lenses typically last about one year with proper care. During your child’s routine visits, we’ll monitor their vision and make adjustments if needed.
4. Is Ortho-K covered by insurance?
Most vision plans do not cover ortho-k as it’s considered a specialty lens. However, we offer flexible payment options to make care accessible for families.
5. What if my child stops wearing the lenses?
Ortho-K is completely reversible. If your child stops wearing the lenses, their vision will gradually return to its previous prescription, no permanent changes to the eye.