"As EYE See It" --- What is Corneal Refractive Therapy?
Are you nearsighted and sick of being dependent on glasses? Does you child's nearsightedness seem to worsen all the time? Corneal refractive therapy (CRT) is a proven way of correcting myopia (nearsightedness) without glasses, daytime contact lenses or surgery. In addition, CRT may slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. CRT has been called many names including orthokeratology and corneal molding. All of these names refer to the process of wearing a rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lens while sleeping to change the power of the eye's cornea in a predictable way. Thus, when the contact lens is removed the eye is in focus without wearing correction. This molding effect last during waking hours after the lens is worn while sleeping. The corneal molding lenses are uniquely designed to provide the right amount of correction for each individual eye.
Many of my patients are suprised to hear that this technology exists. However, corneal refractive therapy is not a new idea. Some doctors began using early corneal molding lenses in the 1980s. The procedure gained popularity in the 90s as lens technology improved. CRT has been a part of The Optical Boutique for about 20 years.
On a personal note, my lovely wife began using corneal molds about a year ago. She wanted to be able to watch our two young sons at the pool without the danger of wearing soft contact lenses or the inconvenience of wearing glasses. She has been very successful. Corneal reshaping has given her the freedom to better care for our children in an environment not conducive to daytime contact lenses of spectacles.
If you would like to know if your a candidate for this exciting technology, give us a call. We'll schedule you for a free consultation in which we can discuss your individual needs.
