| Do you feel stuck with the eyesight you were born with and have a sense that your vision only gets worse as time goes on? Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT), more formally referred to as Orthokeratology, is a non-surgical corrective method used to help improve eyesight through the use of rigid gas-permeable contact lenses. Just like orthodontists use braces and retainers to actively assist in the restructuring and improvement of the mouth, ophthalmologists utilize the advanced technology of CRT to gradually improve your eyesight and help you to attain better vision without the need for eyeglasses or contacts in your daily life. How Corneal Refractive Therapy Works Special therapeutic contact lenses created using corneal surface mapping technology, computerized manufacturing and oxygen-breathing lens materials are designed to gradually change the shape and flatten the cornea to reduce cases of moderate to severe near-sightedness in patients. Like normal contact lenses, CRT lenses rest gently on the cornea. Unlike normal contact lenses, though, CRT contact lenses are not designed to match the cornea’s existing shape, but instead are designed to apply gentle pressure to the center of the cornea in order to correct drastic roundedness, which causes near-sightedness. As the cornea is subtly flattened the focusing power of the eye is reduced, to bring the eye into correct focus, and compensate for a near-sighted condition. Also unlike regular prescription contact lenses, CRT lenses are usually worn only overnight. Who can benefit from Corneal Refractive Therapy? CRT is an excellent option for: - Individuals with nearsighted vision
- Individuals with astigmatism
- Adults and children
Results of Corneal Refractive Therapy CRT is a corrective procedure and once the desired level of correction has been achieved, the CRT lenses are worn periodically to maintain that level. How much patients will need to continue to wear their customized lenses will depend upon their unique situations, but may include a short period of daily or weekly wearing time. Patients who do not follow their doctor’s prescribed schedule of wearing the retainer lenses may notice a return to their pre-existing vision prescription. CRT patients may start to see changes and improvements in vision within hours or days of using their lenses. Significant improvements are usually noticed after three to six months of wearing the special corrective lenses on a regular basis. After treatment and maximum results are achieved, retainer lenses are worn to stabilize the new corneal shape. CRT is not for everyone, though, so it’s important to speak with a Vistar Eye Center Orthokeratology specialist to discuss your best course of action. |