Safety Protocols and Potential Complications
While Ortho-K is a safe procedure when managed correctly, it is a medical intervention that requires strict adherence to safety protocols.
The most serious, though rare, complication is Microbial Keratitis (a corneal infection).
To minimize risk, practitioners and patients must focus on:
Lens Care Hygiene: Use of hydrogen peroxide-based cleaning systems or dedicated multipurpose solutions for GP lenses is mandatory. Tap water should never come into contact with the lenses or cases.
Regular Follow-ups: Patients are typically seen after the first night, at one week, one month, and every six months thereafter to check for Corneal Staining or signs of "lens binding."
Appropriate Fitting: A poorly centered lens can cause "induced astigmatism" or "ghosting," which can be resolved by adjusting the alignment zone of the lens.
Ocular Surface Health: Pre-existing conditions like allergic conjunctivitis or severe dry eye must be managed before starting Ortho-K to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
Current data shows that the risk of infection with Ortho-K is similar to that of daily-wear soft contact lenses and significantly lower than overnight wear of soft lenses. When used as directed, it remains one of the most effective and safe tools in modern optometry.