Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) in Singapore: Doctor-Led Myopia Control

Looking for Ortho-K in Singapore for your child?

At The EyeClinic by Dr Cheryl Lee, ortho-K is doctor-led. Every child is supervised by an ophthalmologist with a special interest in myopia control, from the first assessment to every follow-up.

Ortho-K uses specially designed contact lenses worn overnight. While your child sleeps, they gently reshape the front surface of the eye. The lenses come out in the morning, and vision stays clear through the day without glasses or daytime contact lenses.

Ortho-K is also used to slow myopia progression. Studies have reported that it can reduce progression by around 40 to 60% compared with regular glasses, though results vary from child to child. Where appropriate, I combine it with other evidence-based myopia treatments.

Why doctor-led matters

In Singapore, ortho-K is fitted by both optometrists and eye doctors. At The EyeClinic, it is led by an eye doctor, because ortho-K lenses sit on the eye overnight, so the health of the eye matters as much as the fit of the lens.

As an ophthalmologist, I examine your child's cornea, tear film and eyelids, and I treat problems such as dry eye or eyelid inflammation before they affect lens wear. At every visit I look for early signs of irritation or infection, and I teach your child and you how to handle the lenses safely.

I don't simply prescribe lenses. I track your child's prescription, axial length growth, lens fit, eye health, eyelid hygiene and long-term progression, so one doctor sees the whole picture.

A simple nightly routine

1. Wash hands and insert the lenses at bedtime.

2. Sleep as normal.

3. Remove the lenses on waking.

4. Clean and store the lenses properly.

Ortho-K may suit children who

- have myopia that increases every year

- want freedom from glasses for sport or swimming

- enjoy outdoor activities

- are becoming highly short-sighted

- have parents concerned about the future eye health risks of high myopia

Not every child is suitable. At the assessment I will tell you honestly whether ortho-K is appropriate for your child. If it isn't, we will discuss other options.

How does ortho-K compare?

Ortho-K: lenses worn overnight. Clear daytime vision without glasses. Needs a nightly lens routine.

Atropine eye drops: one drop at night. Does not correct vision, so glasses are still needed. Easy to add to other treatments.

Myopia control glasses: worn in the daytime. No lens in the eye.

Many children do best with a combination. I will help you choose what is appropriate for your child.

Read more: /misight-vs-ortho-k-vs-atropine

Frequently asked questions

Does ortho-K cure myopia?

No. It cannot reverse myopia, and the effect lasts only while the lenses are worn. Its purpose is to slow progression and give clear daytime vision.

What age can my child start?

It depends on your child's eyes, how responsible they are with the lenses, and how quickly the myopia is changing. We will discuss this at the assessment. There is no minimum or maximum age. Because it is effective in controlling myopia, start it early.

What does doctor-led ortho-K mean?

Your child is supervised by an ophthalmologist throughout, who checks eye health, tear film and eyelids as well as the lens fit, and tracks axial length growth over time.

What happens if my child stops wearing the lenses?

The eye gradually returns to its natural shape and glasses will be needed again. Please speak to me before stopping so we can plan together.

Can ortho-K be combined with other treatments?

Yes. I combine with low-dose atropine in the beginning

Can children play sports with ortho-K?

Yes. Because the lenses are worn overnight, children can enjoy clear vision during the day, including for sports and swimming, without glasses.

Is ortho-K painful?

Most children adapt quickly and feel comfortable wearing the lenses overnight.

How long do ortho-K lenses last?

Lenses are replaced periodically depending on wear and condition, usually about once a year.