Considering LASIK? Meet the Non-Surgical Alternative — Ortho-K
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) reshapes your cornea overnight with a custom lens you wear while you sleep — no incisions, no laser, fully reversible. Dr. Bonakdar fits Ortho-K for both adults and children in Orange County.
Ortho-K vs LASIK: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Ortho-K | LASIK | |
|---|---|---|
| Surgery required | No | Yes |
| Reversible | Yes — stop wearing, corneas return to normal | No — permanent corneal reshaping |
| Corneal tissue removed | None | Yes (laser ablation) |
| Dry-eye risk | Does not induce surgical dry eye | Documented post-op dry-eye risk |
| Candidacy age | Children & adults, including under-18s who cannot get LASIK | Typically 18+ with a stable prescription |
| Vision correction while worn | Overnight lenses; clear, lens-free days | Permanent, no lenses needed |
| Program cost | From $4,600 for a 2-year program, then $1,100/year after | Varies by provider — ask your surgeon for a quote |
Cost figure reflects EyeCare Center of Orange County's published Ortho-K program pricing. LASIK pricing varies by surgical provider.
When LASIK Is the Right Choice
We believe in honest guidance, and LASIK is an excellent option for the right candidate. LASIK is generally the better fit if:
- Your prescription is stable and falls within the range LASIK surgeons consider treatable
- You are an adult wanting a permanent correction with no nightly lens routine
- You are comfortable with an elective surgical procedure and its recovery
EyeCare Center of Orange County provides surgical consults and co-management for patients pursuing LASIK — we help you choose the right path either way. Learn about our surgical consult & co-management services →
Why Patients Choose Ortho-K Instead
Non-Surgical & Reversible
No incisions, no laser, no corneal tissue removed. Stop wearing the lenses and your corneas return to their original shape.
Works for Kids & Teens
LASIK is not an option under 18. Ortho-K is also one of the most effective ways to slow myopia progression in children. See our myopia management program →
Post-LASIK & Ineligible Corneas
Patients with LASIK regression or corneas not suitable for further surgery often find Ortho-K restores clear vision without another procedure. Read about post-LASIK complications we manage →
Dr. Bonakdar's Ortho-K Experience
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D., has practiced optometry for 35+ years, fitting Ortho-K lenses for both vision correction and childhood myopia control at his Santa Ana office serving Orange County.
Rated 4.9★ from 133+ Google reviews.
Ortho-K vs LASIK — FAQs
Is Ortho-K as good as LASIK?
Ortho-K and LASIK correct vision through different mechanisms — Ortho-K reshapes the cornea temporarily with an overnight lens, while LASIK reshapes it permanently with a laser. Many Ortho-K wearers report daytime vision comparable to LASIK, without surgery. The right choice depends on your prescription, age, and preference for a reversible vs. permanent option.
Can I do Ortho-K after LASIK?
Yes, in many cases. Patients with LASIK regression or corneas that are no longer ideal candidates for additional surgery are sometimes good candidates for Ortho-K. A comprehensive evaluation with corneal topography determines candidacy.
Is Ortho-K safe for kids?
Yes — Ortho-K is FDA-cleared for temporary reduction of myopia. Many practitioners also use Ortho-K as part of a myopia management program for children, who are not candidates for LASIK. Dr. Bonakdar fits Ortho-K lenses for pediatric vision correction and myopia management.
How much does Ortho-K cost vs LASIK?
Our Ortho-K program starts at $4,600 for a 2-year program, then $1,100/year after, with interest-free financing available. LASIK pricing varies by surgical provider — ask your surgeon for an exact quote to compare.
Find Out If Ortho-K Is Right for You
Or call (949) 733-2020 to speak with our team directly.