Myopia (nearsightedness) is more than just blurry distance vision; it’s a growing global health concern, especially in children. If your child needs stronger glasses every year, squints to see the board at school, or complains of tired eyes after screen time, they could be a candidate for orthokeratology (ortho-k).
This non-surgical vision correction treatment not only provides clear vision during the day but also slows the progression of myopia.
Dr Elmalem and Associates offers ortho-k fittings for children and teens, using advanced corneal topography and customized lens designs to provide comfort, clarity, and control over their vision.
5 Signs Ortho-K Can Help Your Child
1. Your Child’s Prescription Keeps Getting Worse
Progressive myopia is one of the strongest indicators that ortho-k may help. These special overnight contact lenses reshape the front of the eye (cornea) while your child sleeps, allowing them to wake up with clear vision without needing glasses or contacts during the day.
Even better? Ortho-k has been shown to slow the progression of myopia, which can help protect your child’s eye health.
Did you know? Higher levels of myopia are associated with an increased risk of severe eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment and glaucoma.
2. They Spend Time on Screens or Reading Up Close
Near work, like homework, gaming, or scrolling on tablets, can put strain on a child’s visual system, especially if they’re already nearsighted. This lifestyle, now common among school-aged children, may accelerate myopia.
Ortho-k lenses can help mitigate the impact of screen time by promoting better-focusing habits and restoring clear vision without the need for daytime corrective lenses.
3. They’re Active and Hate Wearing Glasses
Whether your child plays sports, swims, dances, or simply prefers a glasses-free look, ortho-k lenses offer freedom during the day. No glasses slipping off during soccer or fogging up in winter.
Since the lenses are only worn overnight, there is no risk of losing or damaging them at school or during activities.
4. They’re Frustrated with Glasses or Contact Lenses
Is your child constantly complaining about their vision, refusing to wear glasses, or struggling with contact lenses? These complaints are common among kids who feel self-conscious or uncomfortable with their current eyewear.
Ortho-k treatment gives them the confidence to enjoy everyday activities with natural, glasses-free vision while still addressing their underlying prescription.
5. You're Looking for a Safe, Non-Surgical Solution
Many parents worry about their child’s vision getting worse year after year but don’t want to consider refractive surgery for someone so young. That’s where ortho-k shines—it’s completely non-invasive and reversible.
Our eye doctors utilize precise corneal mapping technology to design lenses tailored to your child’s unique eye shape. We provide detailed training and support for insertion, removal, and cleaning to ensure success from day one.
Why Choose Dr Elmalem and Associates for Ortho-K?
At our locations in Hillcrest Mall (Richmond Hill) and Upper Canada Mall (Newmarket), we specialize in custom contact lens solutions for patients with complex needs, including myopia control for kids and teens.
What makes us different?
- Advanced diagnostic imaging for precision lens fitting.
- Experienced optometrists in pediatric and specialty lenses.
- Convenient mall-based clinics with easy access and family-friendly hours.
- Ongoing follow-up care to track vision progress and lens comfort.
Wondering If Your Child Is a Candidate for Ortho-K?
You’re not alone. Many parents in Newmarket and Richmond Hill are seeking a safe, science-backed method to help their children achieve clear vision. Schedule a myopia consultation at Dr Elmalem and Associates and discover if ortho-k is the right fit for your child.
Serving families in Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Aurora, Vaughan, and the surrounding communities.