Ortoqueratologia

Ortoqueratologia, commonly known as corneal reshaping or corneal orthokeratology, is a non-surgical ophthalmic procedure that involves the use of specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea. This process aims to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.

The procedure typically involves wearing the specially crafted lenses overnight. During sleep, the lenses gently flatten or reshape the corneal surface, altering its curvature to focus light more accurately onto the retina. Upon removal of the lenses in the morning, patients often experience clear vision throughout the day. The effects of ortoqueratologia are reversible; if lens wear is discontinued, the cornea gradually returns to its original shape.

Ortoqueratology has gained popularity as a non-invasive alternative to refractive surgery such as LASIK, especially among individuals with active lifestyles, adolescents, and those hesitant about surgical procedures. The treatment is generally safe when performed by trained practitioners, but potential risks include microbial keratitis and other eye infections, emphasizing the importance of proper hygiene and regular monitoring.

The success and stability of the correction depend on factors such as age, degree of refractive error, and individual corneal characteristics. Research continues to advance in this field, exploring long-term outcomes, safety, and the development of customized lens designs.

Overall, ortoqueratology offers a reversible, non-surgical option for vision correction, with ongoing developments aimed at expanding its efficacy and safety profile for diverse patient populations.