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Corneal Reshaping FAQ

By wearing special contact lenses at night that gently and safely reshape your cornea, you may not need to wear corrective lenses during the day. Corneal reshaping therapy (CRT) contacts are “reverse geometry” lenses that flatten your cornea to refine focusing of incoming light. When properly refracted light from external images reaches your retina, they are converted into electrical signals and transmitted as sharp images to the visual centers of your brain via your optic nerve. Although results of corneal reshaping are not permanent, most CRT patients enjoy 20/20 vision for up to 24 hours. Your Plymouth-area optometrist would also like you to know that this criterion permits daytime driving without the use of corrective lenses. Keep reading to see some frequently asked questions about corneal reshaping.

Can I wear corneal reshaping contact lenses for a long time without hurting my eyes?

As long as you keep getting a clean bill of eye health from your doctor of optometry, yes. Corneal reshaping contacts typically last one year before they need to be replaced with new ones.

Is corneal reshaping just like Ortho-K?

CRT relies on the basic principle of correcting improperly shaped corneas to improve vision but employs more advanced materials often than Ortho-K to successfully enhance daytime vision. Corneal reshaping contacts are soft, more comfortable and facilitate oxygen flow between your eyes and contacts. Additionally, your Medina area eye doctor uses state-of-the-art optometry equipment for developing precisely fitted contact lenses that provide optimal reshaping of corneas.

Is corneal reshaping really safe and effective?

Yes. There are no side effects associated with wearing CRT contact lenses at night, as long as you visit your optometrist regularly for eye care exams.

Who benefits from corneal reshaping therapy?

CRT is highly recommended for older children and adults with astigmatism and nearsightedness. However, CRT lenses are currently being developed for people with farsightedness. To determine if you are a good candidate for CRT, schedule an appointment today with a Plymouth area eye doctor.