Orthokeratology (ortho-k) is a myopia control treatment that involves the use of special contact lenses. The non-surgical treatment can help improve vision by wearing gas-permeable lenses overnight and removing them during the day.

The contact lenses help reshape the cornea, resulting in clear vision without glasses or contacts. To enhance the benefits of ortho-k lenses, you need to use them correctly. To properly clean ortho-k lenses, follow these instructions:  

Cleaning Ortho-k Lenses

Cleaning your ortho-k lenses will help prevent complications. It is essential to clean the lenses after use. When you get the lenses, you will receive a cleaning kit to care for them. The kit contains a special cleaning solution, a rinsing or soaking solution, and a storage case.

You will also get eye drops to keep the lenses lubricated while in the eyes. Wash and dry your hands carefully before handling the lenses. Remove all traces of oil, lotion, and perfume. Use a lint-free towel to avoid transferring residue from your hands to the lenses.

Using Cleaning Solution

You should never use tap water to clean the lenses. Using an effective cleaning solution will help ensure hygiene and comfortable ortho-k contact lens wear. Proper cleaning will enhance vision and improve eye health by reducing bacteria and contaminants.

There are different cleaning solutions like peroxide-based AO Sept Plus and rigid lens solutions like Boston Simplus and MeniCare Plus. The cleaning and storing process will depend on the solution that you use.

Rinsing the Ortho-k Lenses

After cleaning and sterilizing the lenses, you need to make sure that you rinse them thoroughly. Rinse off the solution before you wear or store the lenses. Failing to rinse the solution will cause stinging and irritation when you wear the lenses.

If you experience any stinging or irritation, flush the eye using warm water or an eyewash. Wait for the discomfort to subside before re-inserting the lens. You can purchase a rinsing solution from most drugstores.

Storing the Ortho-k Lenses

After you clean, sterilize, and rinse the lenses, you need to store them properly. To do so, fill the storage case with the soaking solution before carefully inserting the clean lenses. Ensure that the container or storage case is always clean and sterile. Air-dry the case after use, ensuring that you do not expose it to perfumes, household cleaners, and other irritants.

Do not use tap water to rinse the case. Use a saline solution and allow it to air-dry. Store the case in an area where it does not encounter other cleaning products. Replace the case every two to three months.

Inserting and Removing the Lenses

People wear ortho-k lenses at night while sleeping. The lenses apply gentle pressure to reshape the cornea, and this happens best when the eye is closed. Wearing the lenses while awake for long periods can lead to discomfort or eye abrasions. When you wake up, remove, clean, rinse and store the lenses until evening. Inserting the same contact lens first each time will help avoid confusion.

Scheduling regular follow-up visits to the optometrist will help ensure proper maintenance. Getting eye exams every six to 12 months will help ensure that the ortho-k lenses are working properly. The eye specialist will monitor the progress to ensure that your eyes are in good health.

For more on how to properly clean ortho-k lenses, visit Positive Eye Ons Optometry at our office in Los Angeles, California. You can call (323) 651-5646 today to schedule an appointment.