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Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) in Orange County

Overnight contact lenses that reshape your cornea while you sleep, providing clear vision all day without glasses or daytime contacts.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D.

Last updated: November 21, 2025

Understanding Ortho-K

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) uses specially designed gas permeable contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape your cornea while you sleep. When you remove the lenses in the morning, you can see clearly all day without glasses or daytime contacts.

Ortho-K is also one of the most effective methods for myopia (nearsightedness) control in children. By wearing Ortho-K lenses, children can slow the progression of their myopia, reducing their risk of high myopia and associated eye diseases later in life. At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we specialize in Ortho-K fitting for both vision correction and myopia management.

Benefits of Ortho-K Treatment

  • Clear vision all day without glasses or contacts
  • Non-surgical alternative to LASIK
  • Slows myopia progression in children
  • Reversible—stop wearing and eyes return to original state
  • Great for athletes and active lifestyles
  • No dry eye issues from daytime contact wear

The Ortho-K Process

1

Consultation & Evaluation

Comprehensive eye exam with corneal topography to determine if you are a good Ortho-K candidate. We discuss expectations and answer your questions.

60 minutes
2

Lens Design & Fitting

Custom lens design based on your corneal shape. Initial fitting to verify proper lens performance.

60 minutes
3

Overnight Trial

Wear your lenses overnight and return in the morning to check results. Most patients see significant improvement after first night.

30 minutes follow-up
4

Optimization & Training

Lens adjustments if needed and comprehensive care training. Regular monitoring to ensure optimal results.

Varies

Is Ortho-K Right for You?

Good Candidates

  • Nearsightedness (myopia) up to -6.00D
  • Low to moderate astigmatism
  • Children with progressive myopia
  • Adults seeking glasses-free daytime vision
  • Those not suitable for or wanting to avoid LASIK
  • Athletes, swimmers, or those in dusty environments

May Need Evaluation

  • !Very high myopia (>-6.00D)
  • !Certain corneal conditions
  • !Chronic eye infections

Common Questions About Ortho-K

Ortho-K lenses gently reshape your cornea while you sleep using hydraulic forces under the lens. The corneal reshaping temporarily corrects your refractive error, allowing clear vision when you remove the lenses in the morning.
Yes, Ortho-K is very safe for children when properly fitted and monitored. It is FDA-approved and has been used worldwide for decades. For children with progressive myopia, Ortho-K provides the added benefit of slowing myopia progression.
Clear vision typically lasts throughout the day. Some patients with higher prescriptions may notice slight vision reduction by evening. Consistent nightly wear maintains optimal results.
Ortho-K is fully reversible. If you stop wearing the lenses, your cornea gradually returns to its original shape over several days to weeks, and your original prescription returns.
Yes, Ortho-K can correct low to moderate amounts of astigmatism (typically up to -1.75D). Modern lens designs can address both myopia and astigmatism simultaneously.

Schedule Your Consultation

Get expert ortho-k care from Dr. Alexander Bonakdar

(949) 364-0008Book Online

Cost & Insurance

Typical Cost Range

$1,200 - $2,500

Insurance Coverage

Some vision plans include Ortho-K benefits. Coverage varies by plan. We can verify your specific benefits before beginning treatment.

Financing Available

CareCredit accepted. Package pricing typically includes fitting, lenses, and first year of follow-up care.

*Costs vary based on individual needs. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Last reviewed: November 21, 2025

Medical content is reviewed regularly to ensure accuracy and reflect current best practices.

Schedule your orthokeratology (ortho-k) consultation

Conveniently located in Orange County

Same-Day Appointments

Often available

Convenient Location

Santa Ana, CA

Most insurance plans accepted • Flexible financing available

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Always seek the advice of your eye care professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Individual results may vary. The information on this site does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.