MiSight vs Ortho-K: Which is better?

The parents of kids with myopia often struggle with the best course of action and treatment. This is one of our most frequently asked questions.

As one of Atlanta’s leading providers in managing children’s myopia, Dr. Jonathan Chen from Vision Source Insight Eyecare in Sandy Springs wanted to share his experience in choosing between these two options.

What are MiSight lenses?

MiSight by Coopervision are soft, daily disposable contact lenses specifically designed for slowing the progression of myopia in children aged 8 to 12 years. It also corrects the vision from the first day of wear. MiSight lenses are available for prescriptions from -0.50 to -7.00 diopters.

The recommended wearing time of MiSight is at least six days per week, 10 or more hours each day to maximize the therapy effect. These contact lenses should never be worn while sleeping. MiSight lenses consist of a central distance correction area surrounded by circular zones of alternating distance and near powers. Studies show this design slows eye growth and increased prescription jumps by focusing light in front of the peripheral retina (known as myopic defocus).

What are Ortho-K lenses?

The Ortho-K lenses are customized gas-permeable contact lenses specifically made for an individual patient’s eye shape and treatment effect required. They are applied at bedtime and worn overnight. The lenses will gently reshape the front surface of the cornea (front of the eye) to correct their vision while the child is sleeping.

The full effect of Ortho-K lenses can take a few weeks. Once achieved, your child will be able to see without daytime glasses or contact lenses the following day. The effect is temporary and requires the patient to wear them each night to maintain good vision during the day.

Ortho-K can correct a wide range of prescriptions, between -1.00 DS and -6.00 DS of myopia, and up to -1.75 DC of astigmatism. Higher corrections are achievable using special lens designs.

Differences between MiSight and Ortho-K

MiSight and Ortho-K are both excellent visual treatments for children with myopia and are very effective at slowing the progression of myopia. Both lenses reduce myopia progression by focusing peripheral light in front of the retina, rather than behind the retina as regular glasses and contact lenses can do. Studies show that both Ortho-K and MiSight can slow the rate of myopia progression in children by an average of around 50% compared to wearing single-vision spectacle or contact lenses.

Although both lenses achieve similar efficacy and the principles behind them are similar, there are some differences which need to be considered when choosing the best option for your child.

At a Glance:

	MiSight	Ortho-K
Evaluation and Fitting Visits	• Initial Measurements • Dispensing visit with application & removal training • 1-2 weeks progress visit to assess adaptation	• Initial Measurements • Dispensing visit with application & removal training • 1 day Ortho-K progress visit • 2-4 week & 3-month progress visits • Additional evaluations may be required if lens changes are made
Progress Visits Recommended	• Every 6 months, more frequent for higher risk cases	• Every 6 months, more frequent for higher risk cases
FDA approved ages	• As early as 8 years old	• All ages
Lens Designs	• Single Design – Non-Customizable	• Custom-made – numerous
Wearing Schedule	• Daytime Only	• Nighttime, while sleeping
Effectiveness of Treatment	• Approximately 50% reduction in rate of progression of myopia	• Approximately 50% reduction in rate of progression of myopia
Range of Powers	• Up to -7.00 DS	• Ideal between -1.50 and -5.00 Diopters
Range for Astigmatism	• Up to -1.00 DC of astigmatism	• Up to -1.50 DC (it may be possible to correct higher than this)
Lens Replacement	• Daily	• Every 12 months
Time Expectations for Clear Vision	• Up to 1 week	• 2-4 weeks to achieve stable, clear vision
Comfort	• Same as daily disposable contact lenses	• Initial lens awareness which improves over 2 to 4 weeks
Water Activities	• Not advised to be worn for swimming	• N/A, due to lenses being worn at night
Cleaning Regimen	• Not required – Daily Wear	• After removal and sometimes before insertion
Patient Benefits	• Increased confidence & self-esteem • Less hindrance when playing sports • Reduced risk of serious eye conditions in adulthood	• Increased confidence & self-esteem • Less hindrance when playing sports • Reduced risk of serious eye conditions in adulthood • No swimming concerns

Summary

Determining which option is best for your child will depend on several factors like their prescription, eye shape, eye sensitivity, maturity, lifestyle, and motivation. The parents’ motivation is also important. We carefully evaluate these factors because we feel they are an important part of the decision-making process.

Ortho K in Sandy Springs / MiSight in Sandy Springs

Vision Source Insight Eyecare have been developing individualized treatment plans for children with Myopia for over 15 years.

Dr. Jonathan Chen completed a Cornea and Contact Lens Residency at University of Missouri- St. Louis College of Optometry and is a member of American Academy of Orthokeratology & Myopia Control. He is certified in MiSight and numerous Ortho-K designs including Euclid, Paragon CRT, Moonlens, and WAVE.

All Ortho-K and MiSight treatment begins with a Myopia Consultation. Please call to schedule one today at Sandy Springs/Atlanta 404-250-1680.