Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) in Melbourne
Wake Up to Clear Vision – No Glasses, No Daytime Contacts, No Surgery.
What is Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)?
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) uses custom designed rigid, gas-permeable (RGP) contact lenses worn nightly to gently reshape the front surface of your eye. Each morning, you remove the lenses and enjoy clearer, glasses- and daytime contact lenses- free vision throughout the day.
It’s a safe, reversible, and clinically proven procedure which makes it a great alternative to laser correction surgery — a life-changing solution for active adults and children needing myopia control.
It’s also known as Cornea Refractive Therapy (CRT), Vision Shaping Treatment (VST), “eye braces”, “night lenses” and “dream lenses”.
Fill in the form below to enquire more and/or claim your complimentary Ortho-K consultation:
“It sounds uncomfortable to sleep in Ortho-K lenses.”
Ortho-K lenses are made from high oxygen-permeable materials specifically designed for overnight wear. Most Ortho-K users report the lenses are comfortable after just a few nights.
Benefits of Ortho-K
Freedom from Glasses & Daytime Contact Lenses
Slows Myopia Progression By Up to 60% in Children & Teens
Safe, Reversible & Non-Surgical - an alternative to Laser Surgery
Great for those with Dry Eyes from Daytime Contacts
Ideal for Sports, Swimming, and those with Active Lifestyles
Who Can Benefit from Ortho-K?
- Adults Wanting Freedom from Glasses or Daytime Contacts
- Children & Teenagers with Progressing Myopia
- People Not Ready or Eligible for Laser Surgery
- Athletes & People with Active Lifestyles
“So it’s suitable for all ages?“
Yes! We’ve fit Ortho-K in Melbourne for students as young as 7 years old, surgeons, yoga instructors, athletes, and professionals who want clear, glasses-free vision without surgery.
From -7.00 myopia with moderate astigmatism to 7 years of glasses-free clarity with Ortho-K – Shane’s success story.
"Is it expensive?"
It can cost more upfront than glasses, but it’s cheaper than laser surgery which may come with side effects.
When you factor in years of not buying new glasses or daytime lenses, many patients find it cost-effective — especially for children whose prescriptions would otherwise keep changing.
How do I get started at Eye Philosophy?
Experience clear vision with Ortho-K at Eye Philosophy, a trusted Melbourne provider with 10+ years of expertise.
Step 1
Book an Ortho-K Consultation
Our expert optometrist will check your prescription, corneal shape, and overall eye health to determine if Ortho-K therapy is suitable for you.
Step 2
Design and Production
We’ll send your measurements to a specialised lab to ensure the highest quality lenses are crafted for you. This process usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Step 3
Ortho-K Fitting and Teach
Once your lenses are ready, we’ll book you in for a session with our optometrist to teach you how to properly wear and care for your new Ortho-K lenses.
Step 4
Wear Your New Ortho-K Lenses
Each night, insert your Ortho-K lenses before bed for at least 8 hours. Each morning, you’ll remove them and experience clearer vision throughout the day — often after just one night of wear.
Step 5
1-Week Review Appointment
After a week of wearing your new Ortho-K lenses, we’ll book you in with our optometrist to review how you’re going and if any adjustments are required.
Step 6
Regular Follow-up Appointments
We recommend all our patients to come in for a 1-month, 3-month and 6-month review to ensure that your Ortho-K lenses are helping you reach your clearest vision.
Your Investment in Clear Vision: Ortho-K Packages
Our comprehensive Ortho-K packages can be conveniently paid upfront, or via interest-free fortnightly instalments of just $499 per payment. The total number of payments will range from 3 to 5, depending on your unique prescription and visual needs.
*Don’t forget to check with your private health insurance provider – many funds offer rebates for Optometry services, which may include the lenses or aspects of your Ortho-K package.
- 873: Orthokeratology Contact Lens (Single)
- 874: Orthokeratology Contact Lens (Pair)
Our all-inclusive package ensures you receive the highest standard of care and support throughout your Ortho-K journey, covering:
- Initial Comprehensive Ortho-K Assessment
- One (1) Pair of Custom-Designed Ortho-K Lenses
- Comprehensive Lens Warranty (3-6 Months): For adjustments, ensuring optimal fit and vision.
- One (1) Lens Breakage Replacement: Peace of mind with one complimentary replacement for each lens within the warranty period.
- Ortho-K Fitting & Teach Appointment Fee: Dedicated one-on-one session for safe insertion, removal, and care instruction.
- Ortho-K Care Kit: Essential cleaning and storage solutions to get you started.
- Up to 6 Months of Review & Follow-up Appointments: Regular check-ins to monitor progress, ensure comfort, and fine-tune results.
- *One (1) Pair of Single Vision Glasses: A convenient and reliable backup pair provided for any time you’re not wearing your Ortho-K lenses, or to meet any specific visual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How new is Ortho-K vision correction?
The concept of corneal reshaping has historical roots, with early methods dating back centuries. Modern Orthokeratology, utilising advanced reverse geometry lens designs and materials, emerged in the late 1980s. It received key approvals for daily wear in 1994 and overnight wear in 2002 from the United States FDA, marking its evolution into a predictable and safe treatment. It is also TGA-approved in Australia.
Are there age restrictions for Ortho-K?
No, there is no specific age restriction for Orthokeratology. Kids as young as seven years old have successfully and safely used Ortho-K. It is widely considered one of the most effective methods for myopia control in children and teenagers across Melbourne and beyond, scientifically proven to slow the progression of short-sightedness by up to 60%.
Is Ortho-K therapy permanent?
No, Ortho-K provides a non-surgical, reversible vision correction. If you stop wearing your lenses, your cornea will gradually return to its original shape, and your vision will revert to its pre-treatment state, typically within one to four weeks. This reversibility offers great flexibility and control.
Can Ortho-K contact lenses damage my eyes?
Like any contact lens, Ortho-K lenses carry a small risk of eye infection. However, research indicates that the rate of infection with Ortho-K lenses is less than half that of extended wear soft contact lenses worn overnight. At Eye Philosophy Optometrists, we prioritise your eye safety by:
- Emphasising strict hygiene and lens care routines.
- Recommending lens replacement every one to two years.
- Utilising our partner labs such as EyeSpace, Capricornia and Menicon to precisely calculate and optimise the fit of each lens to your unique corneal topography, significantly reducing the risk of a poorly fitted lens and related complications like corneal staining.
How do Ortho-K contact lenses differ from other contact lenses?
Ortho-K lenses are crafted from highly oxygen-permeable (hyper-Dk) rigid gas permeable (RGP) plastics, similar to some daily wear RGP lenses. The key difference lies in their unique back surface geometry. Unlike lenses that simply align to the cornea, an Ortho-K lens features a precisely engineered central zone that gently reshapes the cornea during sleep, and a peripheral zone that creates a controlled tear channel for optimal fit and comfort. Their diameter (typically 10.00 to 12.00mm) is also larger than traditional RGP lenses.
Can I see with my Ortho-K contact lenses in my eye?
Yes. While the back surface of the lens is actively reshaping your cornea, the front surface is designed to provide clear vision. This means you will have clear sight even if you need to get up during the night. However, for optimal corneal health and long-term vision, we generally recommend wearing your lenses only while you sleep.
How long does it take for Ortho-K to work?
Most patients experience significantly clearer vision after just one night of wear, often achieving about 50% of the required correction. For most individuals, optimum, stable vision is achieved within 7-14 days of consistent treatment, depending on the initial prescription.
Do I need to wear my Ortho-K lenses every night?
During the initial adaptation period, it’s crucial to wear your Ortho-K lenses every night to ensure stable, clear daytime vision. As your vision stabilises, some individuals with very low prescriptions might find they can maintain clear daytime vision by wearing their lenses only every second night. However, for higher prescriptions, daily night-time wear is typically required for optimum results. If you miss a night, your vision will gradually blur as your cornea slowly returns to its original shape. Simply resuming wear the following night will restore your vision within a day or two.
How many hours should I wear Ortho-K lenses each night?
We recommend aiming for 6-8 hours of wear time per night to achieve the best results.
How often will I have to replace my Ortho-K contact lenses?
It is recommended to replace your Ortho-K lenses every 18-months to two years. Regular replacement ensures the ongoing quality of the reshaping effect, as wear and tear can compromise lens effectiveness over time. Timely replacement also significantly reduces the risk of complications from a scratched or dirty lens. We’ll check the condition of your lenses at every appointment.
How does Ortho-K compare to LASIK eye surgery?
Ortho-K offers a compelling alternative to LASIK for many Melbourne patients.
- Non-Surgical & Reversible: Unlike LASIK, Ortho-K is completely non-surgical and fully reversible, meaning you can stop treatment at any time without permanent changes to your eyes.
- Reduced Dry Eye Risk: Ortho-K has a lower potential to worsen dry eyes compared to laser correction.
- Future Adaptability: As you reach your mid-forties and begin to experience presbyopia (age-related near vision changes), Ortho-K therapy can often be modified to provide clear vision at all distances without the need for reading glasses, unlike a one-off laser procedure.
Is Ortho-K better than traditional contact lenses?
For many, Ortho-K offers significant advantages over conventional daytime contact lenses:
- Freedom from Daytime Wear: Enjoy completely uncorrected vision during your waking hours – no specs or contacts needed.
- Comfort: Avoid dry eyes and discomfort often associated with daytime contact lens wear, especially in air-conditioned environments.
- Unrestricted Activities: Participate in sports, swimming, and other activities without the hassle or limitations of glasses or daytime contacts.
How much does Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) cost in Australia, and is it worth it?
In Australia, expect the cost of custom Ortho-K lenses to range from approximately AUD $1,800–$2,500. This investment covers the advanced medical-grade technology, precise custom lens manufacturing, and the specialised fitting and ongoing care required for sub-millimetre corneal reshaping.
At Eye Philosophy, we offer Ortho-K packages starting from $1,500 (depending on the complexity of your unique prescription and visual needs) – this includes the lenses with warranty, Ortho-K care kit, Ortho-K fitting and teach appointment fee, review appointment fees up to 6 months, and *spare optical glasses (for more complex cases).
For those seeking freedom from glasses and daytime contacts, and especially for parents looking for effective myopia control solutions in Melbourne, many find the long-term benefits and lifestyle improvements make Ortho-K incredibly worthwhile. Please note, the cost typically does not include ongoing solutions for lens cleaning, storage, or lubricating drops for insertion.
Is Ortho-K covered under private health insurance?
While we work with all private health insurance providers across Australia, it would depend on your individual policy to determine whether Ortho-K is covered.
You can contact your private health insurance provider to enquire if Ortho-K lenses are covered by your optical benefits:
- 873: Orthokeratology Contact Lens (Single)
- 874: Orthokeratology Contact Lens (Pair)
If so, we can process your claim directly via HICAPS, or provide you with an itemised receipt for manual claims, making your eye care accessible and affordable.
Who is eligible for Ortho-K treatment?
While there’s generally no upper age limit, starting Ortho-K for myopia control at a younger age can provide significant long-term benefits in slowing prescription progression. Most individuals are good candidates, but Ortho-K may not be suitable if you have:
- Severe dry eye syndrome.
- Irregular corneal shapes that cannot be safely corrected.
- Poor hygiene habits.
- We can typically correct myopia up to around -7.00D with standard Ortho-K designs, and sometimes higher with advanced custom lenses.
A comprehensive eye examination and consultation with our expert optometrists at our Melbourne clinics are essential to determine your suitability and tailor a treatment plan.
How do I get started with Ortho-K at Eye Philosophy Optometrists?
The first step is a comprehensive eye examination. During this assessment, we will evaluate your overall eye health, current vision, and meticulously map your corneal shape using advanced topography. This allows us to determine if Ortho-K is the right solution for your eyes and provide a personalised treatment plan.
Does myopia get worse with age?
Myopia (short-sightedness) often progresses, particularly in kids and teenagers. Unmanaged myopia can lead to higher prescriptions and increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment.
How can I manage or slow my child's myopia naturally?
Alongside Ortho-K, which is a powerful tool for myopia management in Melbourne, lifestyle factors can also play a role:
- Increased Time Outdoors: Spending more time in natural light has been shown to help slow myopia progression.
- Reduced Screen Time & Near Work: Taking regular breaks from close-up activities is crucial. The 20-20-20 rule is a simple yet effective strategy: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
How long does the myopia control effect of Ortho-K last?
The myopia control effect of Ortho-K lasts as long as you consistently wear your lenses. Children who begin Ortho-K for myopia control typically continue use until their early twenties, when myopia tends to stabilise. Any decision to cease treatment should be made in consultation with your optometrist, with close monitoring of prescription and eye length. Many patients find the lifestyle benefits so significant that they choose to continue Ortho-K wear well into adulthood!
Why isn’t Ortho-K more commonly offered by all opticians?
Ortho-K is a specialised and highly personalised treatment that requires significant expertise, advanced technology, and dedicated patient care from an experienced optometrist. This contrasts with the volume-driven models of some larger optical retailers, which may not be equipped for the time and precision required for custom Ortho-K fitting and management.
Clear vision shouldn’t hold you back. Take the first step toward visual freedom today.
Whether you’re a parent wanting to protect your child’s future vision, or an adult looking for freedom from glasses at work, sport, or everyday life—Ortho-K could be the perfect solution for you.