Final answer:
The correct follow-up schedule for Ortho-K is variable and depends on the individual patient's response to the treatment, with the option D 'Variable based on patient response' being the most accurate. Follow-ups are more frequent at the beginning of the treatment and may decrease as the patient stabilizes, but annual check-ups are usually recommended.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question refers to the follow-up schedule for Ortho-K, which is a non-surgical process that uses specially designed contact lenses to temporarily reshape the contour of the cornea to reduce myopia (nearsightedness). The correct follow-up schedule is largely variable and depends on the individual patient's response to the treatment. A standardized protocol might include initial frequent follow-ups after the first fitting, with the schedule extending as the patient stabilizes. However, the precise schedule for follow-up visits after starting Ortho-K treatment can differ from one individual to another due to variations in corneal physiology and visual requirements.
Option D: Variable based on patient response is the most accurate answer. Ortho-K requires careful monitoring, especially during the initial treatment phase, where the corneal shape is actively being modified. The optometrist will typically set follow-up visits more frequently at the beginning to ensure the lenses are fitting well and the desired corneal changes are occurring as expected. As the treatment progresses and the corneal shape stabilizes, the frequency of visits may decrease. Nonetheless, annual check-ups are generally recommended to ensure the ongoing health of the eyes and the effectiveness of the treatment.