Japan Orthokeratology Lenses Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Report
80 Pages
July 2024
Region: Japan
TechSci Research
ID: 5986555

Japan Orthokeratology Lenses Market was valued at USD 47.45 Million in 2024 and is anticipated to project impressive growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 4.08% through 2030. The Japan Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses Market is driven by several key factors contributing to its growth. Ortho-K lenses are gaining popularity as they offer a non-surgical, reversible alternative to correct myopia. This appeals particularly to individuals seeking freedom from daytime glasses or contact lenses. The increasing prevalence of myopia among the Japanese population, especially among children and young adults, is significantly boosting the demand for Ortho-K lenses. Advancements in lens materials and designs are enhancing comfort and effectiveness, further driving adoption. Rising awareness among parents and healthcare professionals about the benefits of Ortho-K lenses in controlling myopia progression is fostering market growth. Regulatory support and advancements in optical technology also play crucial roles in expanding the availability and acceptance of Ortho-K lenses in Japan's competitive eyewear market.

Key Market Drivers

Myopia Control Demand

In recent years, Japan has witnessed a notable increase in the prevalence of myopia among children and young adults, sparking a heightened interest in innovative solutions such as Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses. Myopia, commonly referred to as nearsightedness, results in blurred distance vision, and its incidence has been rising globally, including in Japan. This trend is partly attributed to factors such as increased near-work activities (e.g., prolonged use of digital devices), reduced outdoor time, and genetic predisposition. According to an article titled, “Current Prevalence of Myopia and Association of Myopia With Environmental Factors Among Schoolchildren in Japan”, study revealed elevated rates of myopia in Tokyo, with 76.5% prevalence among elementary school students and 94.9% among junior high school students. There were notably high rates of high myopia. Specifically, the prevalence rate of 15.2% based on axial length measurement in junior high school students was significant. While the use of noncycloplegic autorefraction with a threshold of -0.50 D may lead to potential overestimation of results, these findings underscore the substantial current prevalence of myopia among elementary and junior high school students in Asia.

Ortho-K lenses have emerged as a promising option to address this growing issue by reshaping the cornea overnight while the wearer sleeps. This reshaping corrects the refractive error, enabling clear vision throughout the day without the need for traditional glasses or daytime contact lenses. This method not only provides visual clarity but also offers a non-invasive approach to myopia control, potentially slowing down or halting the progression of the condition. The appeal of Ortho-K lenses lies in their ability to offer freedom from daytime corrective eyewear, making them particularly attractive to young individuals engaged in sports, outdoor activities, or professions where glasses or standard contact lenses may be impractical. The lenses' corrective effect is temporary but can be maintained with nightly wear, providing convenience and flexibility to users who wish to manage their myopia effectively without undergoing surgical procedures.

Increasing Demands in Cosmetics

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses have gained popularity not only for their functional benefits in correcting myopia but also for their cosmetic advantages, which cater specifically to the preferences of younger demographics in Japan. Unlike traditional glasses or standard contact lenses, Ortho-K lenses provide a unique proposition: they reshape the cornea overnight, correcting refractive errors such as myopia while the wearer sleeps. This overnight reshaping means that users wake up to clear vision without the need for corrective eyewear during the day.

One of the key attractions of Ortho-K lenses is their cosmetic appeal. For many wearers, especially younger individuals and those concerned with appearance, the lenses offer a way to achieve clear vision discreetly. This is particularly appealing in social and professional contexts where the aesthetic alteration associated with glasses or the noticeable presence of regular contact lenses may be less desirable. Ortho-K lenses provide a practical solution for those engaged in active lifestyles or sports, where wearing glasses can be cumbersome or risky, and traditional contact lenses may not provide sufficient comfort or stability. The lenses allow wearers to enjoy clear, unaided vision throughout the day, enhancing convenience and flexibility.

Convenience and Lifestyle

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses offer wearers a liberating alternative to traditional daytime corrective eyewear, significantly enhancing convenience for various daily activities, sports, and outdoor pursuits. This unique type of contact lens reshapes the cornea overnight, correcting refractive errors like myopia by morning. This means that throughout the day, users enjoy clear vision without the need for glasses or standard contact lenses.

The appeal of Ortho-K lenses extends particularly to individuals with active lifestyles or those who prefer not to wear eyeglasses. For sports enthusiasts, these lenses provide a practical solution where glasses could be cumbersome or pose a risk, and conventional contact lenses might not offer sufficient comfort or stability during vigorous physical activities. Ortho-K lenses cater to people seeking a more flexible and discreet vision correction option in professional and social settings, where the aesthetic impact of traditional eyewear may be less desirable. Overall, Ortho-K lenses contribute to enhancing the quality of life by offering wearers the freedom to see clearly without the hassle of daytime eyewear, thereby supporting a more active and unrestricted lifestyle.

Optometrist and Ophthalmologist Support

Increasing awareness and acceptance of Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses among eye care professionals is proving to be a pivotal driver in the market. These lenses are increasingly recognized as an effective method for managing myopia progression, particularly among children and young adults. Eye care professionals, including optometrists and ophthalmologists, are becoming more educated about the benefits of Ortho-K lenses in reshaping the cornea overnight to correct refractive errors like myopia. Abstract

Professional endorsements and recommendations are instrumental in driving adoption of Ortho-K lenses. As eye care professionals gain confidence in the efficacy and safety of these lenses, they are more likely to recommend them to their patients as a viable alternative to traditional eyeglasses or contact lenses. This endorsement not only boosts patient trust but also expands the reach of Ortho-K lenses in the market. Educational initiatives and training programs for eye care professionals are reinforcing the understanding of Ortho-K lenses' role in myopia management. These efforts are essential for ensuring that professionals can confidently prescribe and fit Ortho-K lenses, thereby contributing to their increasing acceptance and adoption in clinical practice.

Key Market Challenges

Patient Compliance and Adherence

Ensuring optimal outcomes with Ortho-K lenses hinges significantly on patient compliance with wearing protocols, cleaning routines, and follow-up care. Ortho-K lenses work by reshaping the cornea overnight, providing clear vision during the day without the need for corrective eyewear. However, achieving this reshaping requires consistent and proper usage of the lenses as prescribed by eye care professionals.

One of the primary challenges in the adoption of Ortho-K lenses is maintaining patient compliance. Patients must adhere strictly to wearing schedules, which typically involve wearing the lenses overnight or for extended periods. Deviations from these schedules can impact the effectiveness of corneal reshaping, leading to suboptimal vision correction outcomes. Improper cleaning and hygiene practices can increase the risk of eye infections or discomfort, further underscoring the importance of adherence to recommended cleaning routines. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the progress of corneal reshaping and address any issues promptly. However, ensuring patients attend these appointments as scheduled can be challenging, particularly when patients may not perceive immediate benefits or face inconvenience in accessing healthcare facilities.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety

Ensuring stringent regulatory compliance and maintaining safety standards are crucial challenges in the Japan Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses market. Ortho-K lenses are designed to reshape the cornea overnight, providing clear vision during the day without the need for corrective eyewear. However, this process involves direct contact with the eye and requires meticulous adherence to safety protocols to prevent potential complications such as corneal infections or abrasions.

Regulatory oversight is essential to safeguard patient health and ensure the efficacy of Ortho-K lenses. Regulatory bodies in Japan, such as the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), impose stringent requirements on the approval, manufacturing, and marketing of medical devices, including Ortho-K lenses. Manufacturers and eye care professionals must navigate these regulatory frameworks, which often involve rigorous testing, clinical trials, and ongoing monitoring to demonstrate safety and effectiveness. The dynamic nature of medical device regulations requires constant updates and adaptations to keep pace with technological advancements and emerging clinical data. This regulatory complexity can pose challenges for market entry, product innovation, and the overall operational landscape of Ortho-K lens manufacturers and distributors in Japan.

Key Market Trends

Technological Advancements

Ongoing advancements in lens design and material technologies are revolutionizing the comfort, safety, and efficacy of Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses. These innovations are key drivers in the market, continuously enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction. In September 2023, ALPHA (Wuxi) Co., Ltd. began manufacturing Orthokeratology Lenses. ALPHA WUXI, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alpha Corporation. Previously, "Alpha Ortho-K," which was introduced to the Chinese market in 2011, was manufactured at the Ina Office in Kamiina-gun, Nagano, Japan, and then exported to China. In response to the robust growth in demand for Orthokeratology Lenses in China, Alpha Corporation established ALPHA WUXI in November 2020. This new manufacturing facility is designed to enhance production capacities and expedite delivery times across the corporation.

Advancements in lens customization have played a crucial role in improving the precision and effectiveness of Ortho-K treatment. Custom-designed lenses are tailored to the specific corneal topography and refractive error of each individual, optimizing the reshaping process overnight. This customization not only enhances the accuracy of vision correction but also improves the overall fit and comfort of the lenses, reducing discomfort and enhancing patient compliance. These technological advancements in Ortho-K lenses are driving market growth by expanding the scope of application and increasing adoption among eye care professionals and patients alike. As research and development continue to innovate in lens design and materials, the future of Ortho-K lenses looks promising in providing effective myopia management with improved safety and patient satisfaction.

Rising Disposable Income

Japan's stable economic environment and rising disposable income levels among households are pivotal factors driving increased expenditure on healthcare, particularly in advanced vision correction options such as Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses. As the Japanese economy remains robust, with steady GDP growth and low unemployment rates, individuals and families have more financial resources available for healthcare needs.

The affordability of Ortho-K lenses has also contributed significantly to their adoption in Japan. While initially perceived as a premium vision correction option, Ortho-K lenses have become more accessible due to various financing options and insurance coverage schemes. These include health insurance reimbursements for medical devices and treatments related to vision correction, making Ortho-K lenses a feasible choice for a broader segment of the population. The increasing awareness and education about myopia management and the benefits of Ortho-K lenses have fueled consumer interest. Eye care professionals play a crucial role in promoting these lenses as a safe and effective alternative to traditional eyeglasses or contact lenses, especially for children and young adults at risk of myopia progression.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

Based on the Product Type, Overnight Ortho-K lenses are currently dominating over Day-time Ortho-K lenses. This dominance can be attributed to several key factors that highlight the advantages and preferences among users and eye care professionals. Overnight Ortho-K lenses, also known as corneal reshaping lenses, are designed to be worn overnight during sleep. They work by gently reshaping the cornea to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness). The lenses gradually flatten the cornea's front surface, which temporarily corrects the refractive error and allows the wearer to have clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses during the day.

One of the primary reasons for the popularity of Overnight Ortho-K lenses is their effectiveness in myopia control. Studies and clinical trials have shown that these lenses can slow down the progression of myopia in children and young adults. This preventive aspect is particularly appealing in Japan, where there is a growing concern about the increasing prevalence of myopia among younger generations. Another significant advantage of Overnight Ortho-K lenses is their convenience. Users appreciate the ability to achieve clear vision throughout the day without the hassle of wearing glasses or traditional contact lenses. This convenience is especially valued by active individuals, athletes, and those with demanding lifestyles who find glasses or daytime contact lenses restrictive.

Indication Insights

Based on Indication, Myopia stands out as the dominant refractive error that drives the demand for Ortho-K lenses. Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common condition where distant objects appear blurry, while close objects can be seen clearly. The prevalence of myopia has been steadily increasing worldwide, including in Japan, particularly among children and young adults. One of the primary reasons for myopia's dominance in driving the Ortho-K lenses market is its high prevalence rate among the Japanese population. Studies indicate a significant rise in myopia prevalence, especially in urban areas where environmental factors such as increased screen time, limited outdoor activities, and intensive educational demands contribute to its development at a younger age.

Ortho-K lenses offer a non-surgical and reversible solution for myopia correction by reshaping the cornea overnight while the wearer sleeps. This method provides clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses, making it particularly appealing to parents and individuals seeking effective myopia control options. The lenses are designed to correct refractive errors by temporarily flattening the cornea's front surface, thereby focusing light properly onto the retina. The effectiveness of Ortho-K lenses in slowing down the progression of myopia is well-documented. Studies have shown that wearing these lenses can help manage myopia and potentially reduce its progression compared to traditional glasses or contact lenses. This preventive aspect is crucial in Japan, where there is growing concern about the long-term impact of high myopia levels on eye health and vision.

Regional Insights

The Kanto region, centered around Tokyo, emerges as a dominant region in the Japan Orthokeratology Lenses Market for several compelling reasons. As the most populous and economically vibrant area in Japan, Kanto benefits from a robust healthcare infrastructure and a high concentration of specialized eye care professionals. The region's dense urbanization and accessibility to advanced medical facilities make it conducive to the widespread adoption of innovative vision correction technologies like orthokeratology lenses. Tokyo serves as a hub for technological innovation and consumer trends, influencing preferences and driving demand for advanced eye care solutions. The region's affluent population with higher disposable incomes also plays a crucial role, enabling more individuals to afford and access orthokeratology lenses, which are often perceived as a superior alternative to traditional glasses or contact lenses. Collectively, these factors position Kanto at the forefront of the Japan Orthokeratology Lenses Market, showcasing its leadership in both adoption rates and market growth.

Key Market Players

Menicon Co., Ltd.
SEED Co., Ltd.
Toray Industries, Inc.
Universal View Co., Ltd.
Alcon Japan Ltd.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Japan Orthokeratology Lenses Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Japan Orthokeratology Lenses Market, By Product Type:

Day-time Ortho-K-Lenses
Overnight Ortho-K Lenses

Japan Orthokeratology Lenses Market, By Indication:

Myopia
Presbyopia
Hypermetropia
Astigmatism

Japan Orthokeratology Lenses Market, By Distribution Channel:

Hospitals
Optometry Clinics