Orthokeratology
What Is Orthokeratology? The Basics of Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT)
Also known as Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) or ortho-k, orthokeratology is a non-surgical treatment for nearsightedness (myopia) and other refractive errors. Thanks to ortho-k, you could achieve improved focus without the aid of glasses or laser eye surgery. Here's how it works:
Ortho-k involves wearing oxygen-permeable contact lenses overnight. During sleep, the contact lenses safely and temporarily reshape the corneas.
The next morning, you will experience much sharper vision. That's because the ortho-k lenses change your corneal contour so you can focus properly.
Because this safe and effective option reduces dependence on glasses and contacts lenses by day, for many of our patients, CRT is a sensible LASIK alternative.
Who Can Undergo Corneal Refractive Therapy? Orthokeratology Candidates
We have used ortho-k to help patients of all ages at our Garfield Ridge optometry center near Chicago Midway International Airport. Here are some key criteria for ortho-k candidacy:
Nearsightedness (Myopia) and Astigmatism
Orthokeratology is traditionally used to treat mild to moderate cases of myopia as well as slight astigmatism. We'll perform an eye exam and consult your medical history to diagnose and assess any vision issues.Farsightedness (Hyperopia) and Presbyopia
While most commonly used to treat myopia, ortho-K lenses are also effective in treating hyperopia and presbyopia. Presbyopia is a type of farsightedness that affects patients during middle age and later.An Alternative to LASIK Surgery
LASIK is an effective vision correction option, but some patients are unable or unwilling to undergo laser eye surgery. Ortho-k allows these patients to experience improved vision without surgical treatment.Especially Helpful for Children
Children tend to benefit most from ortho-k, including nearsighted patients as young as seven. In fact, the use of gas-permeable contact lenses at an early age can help slow the progression of childhood myopia.Contact a Skilled Eye Doctor About Your Vision Correction Options
At Primary Eye Care Associates, Dr. Steven Chander puts your vision first. We want everyone in Chicago to experience the benefits of great eyesight, whether it's through ortho-k lenses or other vision correction methods.
Dr. Chander has decades of experience as an eye care professional. He is a member of the American Optometric Association and has earned board certification by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry. Dr. Chander can develop a custom treatment plan just for you.
To learn more about ortho-k and whether it is a fit for your needs, schedule a vision correction consultation online. You can also reach the team at Primary Eye Care Associates by phone.
Call Our Eye Doctors
(773) 735-6090
Patient-Centered Optometry from a Trusted Chicago Eye Doctor
Mari McNally
2020
Love Dr. Chander and have paid cash to see him when my insurance was all crazy. He's so amazing, and I literally would not go anywhere else (even if it was free apparently)! He is so knowledgeable, friendly, and truly concerned for his patients. His staff is so friendly, and the choices of frames there are gorgeous. Love my eye doctor! ♡
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Nelly Aguilar
2020
Me and my family have been coming to see Dr. Chander for many years and we are very happy and satisfied with their services here. Very professional, and their staff is very polite and provides very good service. I really recommend this place to my friends and family.
View On GoogleThe Cost of Orthokeratology Payment and Financing Info for Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT)
As part of our goal to make great vision accessible to all of Chicago, our team will gladly answer any questions concerning the cost of treatment and your options for payment.
The Average Cost of CRT
The average cost of orthokeratology starts at $900 per eye. This cost includes our fees for digital mapping, lens sizing, and a pair of custom ortho-k lenses for a single eye. We can provide a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation.
Payment and Financing
We want as many people as possible to experience the benefits of great vision. To make ortho-k more affordable, we accept all major credit cards and offer financing through CareCredit®. We will work with you to make this option affordable.
Keep in Mind...
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In addition to the initial cost of orthokeratology, patients will need to consider the cost of replacement lenses and cleaning solution. The annual cost of continuing treatment is only a fraction of the upfront cost of ortho-k.
Orthokeratology Risks
While no surgery is involved in treatment, ortho-k lenses do have some minor risks. We can help you weigh the risks and benefits in more detail during your consultation.
Hypoxia in the Eyes
Since patients wear their contact lenses overnight, there is a slight risk of hypoxia in the corneas (insufficient oxygen), which can lead to swelling and clouding of the corneal tissue. The use of modern materials has greatly reduced this potential risk of treatment.
Eye Infections
Wearing contact lenses overnight increases the risk of eye infections. Microbial keratitis is of particular concern. Yet these risks of infection can be reduced by keeping your contacts properly cleaned and stored.
If your child is undergoing ortho-k, be sure to help them keep their contacts clean. It's also a good idea to encourage your child to always wash their hands before handling their contacts.
Is Ortho-K Right for Me? Contact Our Practice to Find Out
Thanks to ortho-k, you may not need to wear prescription eyeglasses or contacts during the day. Whether you're an adult or a child, it may be the right option for your needs. To find out if you are a good candidate for CRT, contact our online practice today. You can also schedule a contact lens fitting by phone. Primary Eye Care Associates is located in Garfield Ridge close to Chicago Midway International Airport.
Patients Share Their Stories Reviews for Primary Eye Care Associates
Guadalupe Godinez
2021
I enjoyed my visit with the clinic and Dr. Chandler. They are very professional and make you feel at home. They also speak both English and Spanish. They have the top technology to check eye vision and run any tests you need and overall it’s a great eye vision clinic.
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Alva Gomez
2018
I’ve gone to a few eye doctors around the Midway area and Brighton Park neighborhood and Primary Eye Care is the only one I trust. I had been avoiding contacts for a while due to my astigmatism and they helped me find contacts! Their staff and Dr. Chandler have always been so helpful and kind.
View On GoogleYour Orthokeratology Appointment Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) Patient Education
Do you suffer from a refractive error and want to improve your vision without corrective lenses or surgery? During your meeting with Dr. Chander, he will take several steps to determine if ortho-k lenses are right for you:
Explaining the Process
During your consultation, he will explain all phases of treatment and the initial adjustment process. Some patients may need to wear their ortho-k lenses for part of the day until their eyes fully adjust."Closed Eye" Evaluation
We offer no-fee "closed eye" evaluations. The patient wears retainer contact lenses for about 40 minutes to experience the feel of treatment. After removing the retainer lenses, patients can usually expect a 50- to 90-percent improvement in vision.Exploring Types of Lenses
Since each patient has different needs, we also discuss the type of ortho-k lenses needed. We often use Paragon CRT lenses because they provide high levels of oxygen to the cornea and good overall stability.Discussing Patient Concerns
Getting answers to your questions from an eye doctor is invaluable. Dr. Chander and his team have the training and knowledge to address all of your concerns about orthokeratology, and you can count on them to help you make an informed decision.
Orthokeratology FAQs
Is ortho-k covered by insurance?
No. Orthokeratology is typically considered an elective procedure and is generally not covered by insurance. This is why we offer financing options and accept different methods of payment.Are orthokeratology results permanent?
No. Orthokeratology results are temporary. If you stop wearing your ortho-k lenses at night, your vision will eventually revert back to its original state. That's why regular wear is essential for great results.Is it painful wearing ortho-k lenses overnight?
No. It may feel a bit odd wearing contact lenses to bed, but patients get used to this rather quickly. There is no pain or soreness associated with wearing the ortho-k lenses through the night or in the morning upon waking up.How often should ortho-k lenses be replaced?
Orthokeratology lenses should be replaced every year to every two years. This helps ensure the lenses are in good shape and do not affect vision clarity or acuity.Praise for Our Eye Doctors Committed to the People of Chicagoland
Maribel Moreno
2017
Dr. Chander is an amazing doctor! I've been going to him for years. He has been the only doctor to ever fit me with contacts that are comfortable and clear. The staff is also great! They're all knowledgeable and professional. I would highly recommend Primary Eye Care
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Yomara Mata
2020
Primary Eye Care Associates has always gone above and beyond to take care of my vision needs. I have been working with Dr. Chandler for 9 years and I am confident I will continue to work with him and his practice. Thank you for all your support throughout this time.
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