Side effects of correcting vision through orthokeratology: a review of the literature and unanswered questions

Abstract

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a popular treatment for individuals who are nearsighted or farsighted. Typically, rigid, gas-permeable lenses worn overnight are used to temporarily shape the outer surface of one’s cornea, enabling individuals to see throughout the day without the use of any glasses or lenses. An important question surrounding Ortho-K is whether there
are side effects of using reshaping lenses overnight, including maladaptive anatomical changes in the eye. This literature review explores the anatomical changes on both a microscopic and macroscopic scale in the eye during short-and long-term Ortho-K treatment.