Managing Short-Sightedness with Ortho-K Lenses

What is Short-Sightedness/Myopia?

Do you find it hard to see things clearly unless they’re very close? It could be short-sightedness, also known as myopia - a condition where distant objects appear blurry, but close-up ones remain sharp.

The good news? There’s a clever, non-surgical way to manage it with Ortho-K overnight contact lenses.

Learn more about myopia here.

How Do Ortho-K Contact Lenses Work?

Ortho-K or Orthokeratology is a clinically proven method of managing myopia using specifically designed overnight contact lenses. These lenses gently reshape the surface of the eye (the cornea) while you sleep. You heard that right, in the morning you can remove the lenses and enjoy clear, natural vision all day - without needing glasses or daytime contact lenses. This is a non-invasive, reversible approach that can help manage myopia for both children and adults who’d prefer not to wear traditional contact lenses or glasses.

• Key Benefits of Ortho-K Contact Lenses?
• Freedom from glasses or contacts during the day
• Safe, non-surgical, and reversible
• Ideal for those with dry eyes or a sensitivity to daily lenses
• Vision correction whilst sleeping

What to Expect from the Ortho-K Fitting Process

At Bayfields, we can guide you or your family members through every step of your Ortho-K journey. Here’s how it works: There's an initial fee of £250 (or £195 for under 16s). This includes all fitting appointments and checks to get your lenses just right. The fee is non-refundable and covers 4 key appointments:

1. Consultation – Eye measurements and suitability assessment (30 mins)
2. Lens Fitting Appointment – Application of lens, training on application and removal, and care (up to 1h)
3. First Morning Check – Assessment after the first night of wear (30 mins)
4. 1-Week Follow-up – Monitoring how vision is adapting (30 mins)
5. 10-Day Review – Confirming stability and day-long clarity (30 mins)

Some people may experience a small amount of glare in low-light conditions that could take up to 10 days to fully stabilise. However, most users adjust quickly and find the lenses comfortable once they’re in and the eyes are closed.

Are Ortho-K Contact Lenses Right for You?

Ortho-K may be suitable for those who:

• Are short-sighted (typically between -0.75 and -5.50)
• Have up to -2.50 astigmatism
• Sleep at least 6 hours per night
• Have healthy eyes and no history of laser surgery or severe dry eyes
• Can follow care routines and attend regular appointments

A recent eye examination is required before starting Ortho-K to ensure suitability.

Ortho K can also slow the progression of myopia in children and teens

Ortho-K is one of the most advanced options available for slowing down the progression of short-sightedness in especially when recognised early. It’s safe, effective, and now available at select Bayfields Opticians & Audiologists branches.

Want to know more about Ortho-K to see if its right for you?

Contact your local Bayfields practice here and speak to one of our experienced opticians or simply book an appointment here for you or your family member to have a more in-depth discussion.