What Does Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Cost?

There are numerous factors to consider in determining the cost of Ortho-K therapy.  Orthokeratology costs will vary by practitioner. Some providers bundle the exams and the lenses into one fee which may vary based on a case's complexity and others charge individually for visits and lenses.

Children enjoy the benefits of being able to see clearly without wearing glasses or daytime vision correction. Lens-free vision improves the vision-related quality of life and influences self-esteem1.  Parents have the added benefit of influencing their child's long-term vision outcome.

Major Orthokeratology cost components include;

  • the doctor’s experience and reputation,
  • the complexity and severity of your child's nearsightedness,
  • whether initial lenses, a spare/replacement pair are included,
  • the geographic location of the eye care professional's practice.

Generally,  the first year's bundled fee for the initial exam, scheduled follow-up fitting appointments, and lenses for Ortho-K range from $1,500 to over $3,500 depending upon the cost components previously mentioned.  After the first year, the annual cost of corneal refractive therapy is lower than the first year, since the initial fitting has been completed.

Many eye care practitioners offer optional payment plans such as CareCredit. Consult with your eyecare practitioner for specific information on their corneal refractive therapy payment plans.

You may also want to consult with your employer about Flexible Spending Accounts. A Flexible Spending Account (FSA), (also called flex plan, reimbursement account, Flex 125, Tax Saving Plan, Medical Spending Account, a Section 125, or a Cafeteria Plan), is an employer-sponsored benefit that allows you to pay for eligible medical expenses on a pre-tax basis. Most elective procedures are covered by a Flex plan including, corneal refractive therapy.  It’s recommended you talk to your benefits manager to determine FSA qualification prior to making any allocations to your Flexible Spending Account for Ortho-K Therapy.

1. Lipson MJ, Sugar A, Musch DC. Overnight corneal reshaping versus soft disposable contact lenses: vision-related quality-of-life differences from a randomized clinical trial. Optom Vis Sci. 2005 Oct;82(10):886-91.