Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that affects the cornea shape, making it thin and bulge into a cone-like form. It can lead to distorted vision and increased light sensitivity. Glasses may provide some vision correction in the early stages of this condition.

However, many people with it find that contact lenses offer a better solution. Finding the perfect fit for contact lenses can be challenging due to the irregular cornea shape. Therefore, finding the ideal fit is vital.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses are a popular choice for individuals with keratoconus. They are rigid and maintain their shape on the eye, creating a smooth optical surface. They compensate for the irregularities caused by keratoconus. 

RGP lenses create a more regular refractive surface by vaulting over the cornea, leading to improved vision. The fitting process for RGP lenses involves precise measurements and customization. 

An eye care professional will assess the corneal shape and size to ensure the lenses fit securely and comfortably. The initial period may require patience for the adjustments to get the eye to adapt to the presence of the lenses. Many individuals with keratoconus find that RGP lenses provide excellent visual acuity. They experience comfort once they have adapted to wearing them.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger contact lenses that rest on the sclera, or the white part of your eye, rather than your cornea. These lenses create a fluid-filled chamber between the cornea and the lens. It helps provide a stable and comfortable fit. 

Scleral lenses offer excellent visual acuity. They can effectively correct vision distortions caused by keratoconus. The fitting process for scleral lenses is more involved and requires expertise from an eye care professional.

Hybrid Lenses

Hybrid lenses combine the benefits of both rigid and soft lenses. They have a stiff center that corrects the irregular corneal shape and a soft skirt for enhanced comfort. The design of hybrid lenses provides precise and stable vision while maintaining good oxygen permeability. These lenses may be suitable for individuals who find RGP lenses uncomfortable. 

Customized Lenses

 

Standard contact lens fitting may not be ideal for individuals with advanced keratoconus. Custom-made lenses can be fabricated based on detailed cornea shape measurements and irregularities. Experts tailor these lenses to your unique needs, offering a more precise fit and improved visual outcomes.

Customized lenses may involve advanced technologies like corneal topography. It maps the cornea shape with high precision. The data helps create lenses that match the specific corneal irregularities. 

It provides optimal vision correction and comfort. These lenses are typically designed and manufactured by specialized contact lens laboratories. They work in collaboration with eye care professionals experienced in managing keratoconus.

Seek Professional Help 

Finding the right fit for contact lenses in keratoconus requires the expertise of an eye care professional. They may include an optometrist or ophthalmologist who specializes in corneal disorders. 

These eye care professionals will perform a comprehensive eye examination, including corneal topography and measurements. It will determine the best contact lens option for you. Regular follow-up visits are essential to ensure the lenses continue to provide optimal vision correction.

For more about keratoconus and contact lenses, visit Premier Eye Care at our office in Fort Worth, Texas. Call (817) 428-2020 to book an appointment today.