Corneal Refractive Therapy is the use of specially designed contact lenses to reshape the front surface of the eye to reduce or correct refractive error. The refractive errors most commonly treatable by Corneal Refractive Therapy are nearsightedness and astigmatism.

How does Corneal Refractive Therapy work?
A device is applied to the cornea of each eye at bedtime and worn while sleeping. During sleep the lens gently reshapes the surface of the eye to the proper curvature. The lens is removed the following morning, providing clear vision throughout the day without the hassle of wearing glasses or contact lenses during these active hours. Most patients have rapid improvement in the first few days of treatment and achieve nearly their optimum vision in 10 to 14 days.
The cornea is highly elastic and always returns to its original shape. For this reason, the lenses are worn nightly in order to maintain the ideal corneal shape to correct vision.

What are the advantages of Corneal Refractive Therapy?

  • Provides freedom from spectacles or contact lenses during active daytime hours
  • No surgery required; is non-invasive
  • Is less costly than refractive surgery
  • Is reversible (laser correction is not!)
  • Can be modified to enhance effect


What are the disadvantages of Corneal Refractive Therapy?

  • Lenses must be worn nightly to maintain proper corneal shape
  • Does not provide full correction on all eyes


Who are the best candidates for Corneal Refractive Therapy?

  • Patients who are nearsighted up to approximately –4.00 and astigmatic up to –1.75
  • Those with active lifestyles (athletes, water enthusiasts, those who work in dusty areas)
  • Those who feel burdened by the need to wear corrective lenses during the day

Note: Due to the unique character and complexity of each eye, full correction is sometimes not possible with Corneal Refractive Therapy. However, significant improvement in visual function is almost always achievable with appropriate candidates and realistic expectations.

For more information on CRT, please visit the Paragon CRT website.

To schedule an evaluation, call us at 593-7821 or e-mail us at appointments@athenseyecare.com.

    

 

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