ORTHO-K ( CRT / Orthokeratology )
Vision Improvement without Surgery!
Safe Alternative to Lasik Surgery
How CRT Lenses Work ?
With the New CRT lenses, Dr Kitahata will design a Custom fitted Shaping lens to the specific contour of your eyes....
At night, the shaping lenses gently reshape your cornea to correct your vision while you sleep....
In the morning , you take your shaping lenses out and see clearly and crisply all day long ....

What is Orthokeratology? Or "CRT" Corneal Refractive Therapy ?

Orthokeratology is a therapeutic procedure using specialized rigid gas permeable contact lenses to gently reshape the cornea. An analogy for Orthokeratology is "braces for your eyes". Just as the orthodontist puts braces on teeth to straighten them, the Orthokeratologist designs custom contact lenses to change the curvature of the cornea. There is no pain and no surgical risk! Once the maximum results are achieved, a retainer lens is used to maintain your vision. Some people use their retainers while they are sleeping, while others use their retainers during the day. Orthokeratology is used to treat myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism and, in some cases, hyperopia (farsightedness). A comprehensive examination, corneal topography and a diagnostic lens fitting are usually needed to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.
Benefits of Orthokeratology , "CRT"

1. Improved vision without glasses or contact lenses

Many people, who undergo Orthokeratology, enjoy good functional vision throughout most, if not all, of their waking hours.

2. No surgical risks.
Orthokeratology is a non-surgical procedure and therefore does not have the risks associated with surgery.

3. Retards the progression of myopia.
Clinical and scientific studies have shown that rigid gas permeable contact lenses retard the progression of myopia.

4. No age restrictions.
As long as the patient can properly handle their lenses, there are no age restrictions. This is important for the young progressive myope. Orthokeratology offers the benefits of improved functional vision without glasses or contact lenses, and the retardation of progressive myopia.

5. Orthokeratology is reversible
. If orthokeratology therapy is discontinued, for any reason, the cornea and the vision returns to the pre-treatment state, without loss of vision.
Risks Associated with Orthokeratology ,"CRT"
The risks associated with Orthokeratology are the same as those associated with traditional rigid gas permeable lens wear. Because the patient is monitored very closely during the program, these risks are minimized.

Some Orthokeratology patients may experience transient ghosts, halos or starbursts during the reshaping phase of the Orthokeratology. By the time, you enter the retainer phase of Orthokeratology; these side effects should be minimized or eliminated.

While careful monitoring decreases potential risks, the patient plays a major role. Good hygiene while handling the lenses and carefully following your doctor’s instructions will allow for early detection and appropriate treatment of any potential problems.
Frequently Asked Questions.
How long will it be before I begin to see improvement in my vision?

Many people will see improvement after their first wearing session. Results vary, but most patient will see significant improvement in the first week.

How long will it take to reach maximum results?

The rate of change will vary from individual to individual. Typically, maximum results are achieved in the first few weeks to the first few months.

Will I need to wear glasses or contact lenses after Orthokeratology?

Most people find that they do not require glasses or contact lenses beyond retainer wear. Retainer lenses must be worn to maintain the changes made to your corneas.

Will I be able to see clearly at near or will I need reading glasses?

If you are over 40 and find it more comfortable to read without your glasses or you wear bifocals, you should expect to wear reading glasses after you have entered the retainer phase.

Will I be able to see clearly while wearing my Orthokeratology lenses and/or retainer lenses?

Yes, all lenses used in the process are designed to allow you to see clearly in the distance.

Can Orthokeratology be done with soft lenses?

No, soft lenses are much too flexible to produce the necessary changes for Orthokeratology.

What can I expect during the reshaping phase of Orthokeratology?

Your doctor will prescribe a specific schedule of office visits to allow your progress to be monitored. At these visits, your doctor will evaluate the health of your corneas; assess your vision and corneal shapes and contours. As necessary, changes will be made to your lenses, your wearing schedules and/or your follow up schedule.

What happens during the retainer phase of Orthokeratology?

As long as you are wearing your retainer lenses, it will be necessary for your doctor to evaluate the health of your corneal and the condition of your Orthokeratology lenses at regular intervals. Of course, an Annual Eye Health Examination is a necessary part of your overall care.

Is Orthokeratology covered by insurance?

You must consult with your insurance carrier or your benefits office to answer this question. This is considered an eligible expense for your medical savings plan if available to you.

Will having Orthokeratology disqualify me from any careers?

You should be aware that some agencies and organizations have physical or vision requirements for participation. The government, the military, the FAA, airlines, fire departments, police departments, and possibly others, may have or decide to have restrictions on those who have undergone refractive procedures, including Orthokeratology. You should investigate and verify the restrictions and requirements prior to beginning Orthokeratology.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact one of the optometrists at Geneva Optometrics. Our phone number is 630-232-7112
See: (www.Genevaopt.com) (www.ortho-k.net) (Genevaopt@sbcglobal.net)