What is Corneal Refractive Therapy and how does it work?

If you’re tired of dealing with glasses or daytime contact lenses and are looking for an alternative, then Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) may be what you’re looking for. But what exactly is CRT, and how does it work?

Corneal Refractive Therapy, also known as orthokeratology, is a non-surgical process that uses specially designed contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea while you sleep. These lenses gently flatten the cornea, correcting nearsightedness and astigmatism. By wearing the lenses overnight, you can enjoy improved vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts.

How long does the effect of Corneal Refractive Therapy last?

Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) offers a temporary vision correction solution, but you might wonder how long the effects last. The duration can vary from person to person, but generally, the corrected vision can be enjoyed for a full day or even longer. However, it’s important to note that the effects are not permanent, and wearing the CRT lenses regularly is necessary to maintain the desired vision correction.

One factor that influences the CRT effect’s longevity is the individual’s prescription. Typically, those with lower degrees of nearsightedness or astigmatism tend to experience longer-lasting effects compared to individuals with higher prescriptions. Additionally, the regularity of lens wear plays a role. Consistently following the prescribed wearing schedule, usually overnight, helps maintain the corneal shape and ensures optimal vision correction throughout the day.

It’s worth mentioning that while CRT lenses can provide clear vision during the day, the cornea gradually returns to its original shape over time. Therefore, it’s important to keep up with regular follow-up appointments with your eye care professional to monitor your vision and assess the need for any adjustments. With proper care and adherence to the recommended lens-wearing schedule, the effects of CRT can be enjoyed for an extended period.

Is Corneal Refractive Therapy suitable for everyone?

Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) sounds like an appealing option, but you might be wondering if it’s suitable for everyone. While CRT can be an excellent choice for many individuals, it’s important to understand that not everyone is an ideal candidate for this vision correction method.

First and foremost, CRT is typically recommended for individuals with mild to moderate nearsightedness and astigmatism. If your prescription falls within the range deemed suitable for CRT, you have a good chance of benefiting from this treatment. However, individuals with severe refractive errors might not achieve the desired level of correction through CRT alone.

Additionally, factors such as the shape and health of your cornea play a crucial role in determining your eligibility for CRT. Certain corneal conditions, such as keratoconus or irregular corneal shape, may make CRT unsuitable. It’s essential to consult with an experienced eye care professional who can evaluate your specific circumstances and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your vision correction needs.

Furthermore, the commitment to wearing the CRT lenses as directed is a vital aspect to consider. Since the effects of CRT are temporary, consistent and disciplined lens wear is required to maintain the corrected vision during the day. If you find it challenging to adhere to a strict lens-wearing schedule or have difficulty handling contact lenses, CRT may not be the ideal choice for you.

What are the potential benefits of Corneal Refractive Therapy?

Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) as a vision correction option comes with a variety of potential benefits.

One significant benefit of CRT is the ability to enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the need for visual aids. By wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight, the cornea is gently reshaped, correcting nearsightedness and astigmatism. This means you can experience the convenience of clear vision during waking hours without the hassle of glasses or contacts.

Moreover, CRT offers a non-surgical and reversible vision correction method. Unlike other surgical procedures, such as LASIK, CRT does not involve permanent alterations to the cornea. The effects of CRT are temporary, and if you decide it’s not the right option for you, you can simply stop wearing the lenses, and your cornea will gradually return to its original shape.

Another advantage of CRT is its suitability for individuals engaged in various activities. Whether you’re an athlete, enjoy outdoor adventures, or have a profession that requires clear vision without visual aids, CRT can be an excellent choice. You won’t have to worry about glasses slipping off or contacts becoming uncomfortable during physical activities or in challenging environments.

Slowing the Progression of Nearsightedness in Young People

One of the main reasons the team at Kirman Eye provides CRT as a therapy is its potential to help slow the progression of nearsightedness in young people.

CRT offers a safe and well-established option for children and teenagers. The lenses are designed to be worn while sleeping, which can be particularly beneficial for young individuals who may have difficulty managing daily contact lens wear or keeping track of glasses. By using CRT, children can wake up to clear vision and go about their day with improved visual clarity.

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition that tends to worsen over time. Studies suggest that CRT may help control myopia progression in children, potentially reducing the need for stronger prescriptions in the future.

These are just a few of the potential benefits of Corneal Refractive Therapy. If you’re looking for a non-surgical, reversible, and convenient option to correct your vision, CRT might be worth considering. However, it’s crucial to consult with an eye care professional who can evaluate your specific circumstances and provide personalized recommendations.

Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with Corneal Refractive Therapy?

Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) may sound like an appealing option, but it’s important to be aware of any potential risks or side effects before making a decision. While CRT is generally considered safe, like any medical procedure, there are certain factors to consider.

One possible risk of CRT is the development of corneal infections. Since the lenses are worn overnight, there is a slight increase in the risk of infection compared to traditional contact lens wear. However, with proper hygiene practices and regular follow-up visits with your eye care professional, this risk can be minimized.

Another potential side effect is dryness and discomfort in the eyes. Some individuals may experience temporary dryness or irritation while adjusting to wearing the CRT lenses. However, these symptoms typically subside as the eyes adapt to the lenses. It’s important to communicate any discomfort to your eye care professional, as they can provide guidance and suggest appropriate solutions to alleviate these symptoms.

Additionally, corneal changes can occur during CRT. While the purpose of CRT is to temporarily reshape the cornea, there is a possibility of long-term changes to the corneal structure. These changes are generally reversible once CRT is discontinued, but it’s crucial to follow up with your eye care professional regularly to monitor your eye health and ensure the cornea remains in a healthy state.

It’s worth noting that the risks and side effects associated with CRT are relatively rare and can be minimized with proper care and regular professional guidance. It’s important to consult with an experienced eye care professional who can evaluate your individual circumstances and provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and eye health.

How do I get started with Corneal Refractive Therapy?

If you’re interested in exploring Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) as a potential vision correction option, you might be wondering how to get started. The first step is to schedule a comprehensive eye examination with a qualified eye care professional who specializes in CRT.

During the examination, your eye care professional will assess your visual needs, evaluate your eye health, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for CRT. They will also measure the precise curvature of your cornea and gather other necessary information to customize the CRT lenses specifically for you.

Once it is confirmed that CRT is a suitable option for you, your eye care professional will provide you with a set of specially designed contact lenses that are tailored to your eyes. They will guide you on how to insert, remove, and care for the lenses. It’s crucial to follow their instructions carefully to ensure the best possible results and to minimize any potential risks or complications.

After receiving your CRT lenses, you will typically begin wearing them overnight. Your eye care professional will provide a recommended wearing schedule and advise you on the duration of lens wear. It’s important to adhere to the prescribed schedule and attend follow-up visits as instructed. These visits allow your eye care professional to monitor your progress, assess the effectiveness of the treatment, and make any necessary adjustments.

Remember, the key to successful CRT is open communication with your eye care professional. If you have any concerns or experience any difficulties during the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance and support. They are there to ensure your comfort and satisfaction throughout your CRT journey. By taking these initial steps and working closely with a knowledgeable eye care professional, you can get started on your Corneal Refractive Therapy journey and potentially enjoy the benefits of clear vision without glasses or contacts during the day.

Your partners at Kirman Eye are passionately dedicated to providing our patients with the best and most effective eye-care options available when anticipating all of your optical needs. We can provide the best technology, the latest scientific information, and the highest quality treatment available. We are always happy to answer your questions and will work with you to find the ideal solution for you.

Contact us to work with you today!