Paragon CRT
Orthokeratology (Ortho-k) is a new non-invasive method of correcting vision that uses a special type of contact lens worn at night while you sleep. The most popular form is called Paragon CRT or Corneal Reshaping Therapy. Visit our clinic for full eye care services.
How Do Ortho-K or CRT Lenses Work?
Dr. Josiah Young of Opticare Vision Center in Newport, KY explains, “Think of how orthodontic braces help move the teeth into proper, healthy alignment. Similarly, CRT lenses gently reshape the front of the eye (cornea) in order to correct vision while you sleep. This means that every day when you wake up, you simply take out your contacts and see great all day."
Are you a good candidate for CRT Lenses? Ask one of our CRT certified Cincinnati optometrists today.
The best candidates for CRT lenses are those with low to moderate amounts of myopia or nearsightedness. It even works for people with astigmatism. Since Ortho-k lenses only work if they are worn every night, stopping wear will allow your eyes to return to their normal shape. That means, unlike LASIK surgery, CRT or Ortho-K treatment is completely reversible. Ortho-k patients can discontinue at any time without adverse effects. LASIK and other vision correction procedures also remain as future options even after someone has used Ortho-k .
People who want to stop wearing glasses or daytime contacts, or those who don't want to pursue eye surgery like LASIK may be good candidates for CRT lenses. Many people who are not candidates for LASIK or PRK surgery can be eligible for CRT vision correction. Those who suffer from dry eyes, especially while wearing contact lenses, may be good candidates. Nearsighted kids and children too young for LASIK surgery are often good candidates for CRT lenses. Kids who participate in athletics or other activities often enjoy CRT so they don't have to worry about glasses or contact lenses for sports.
What is involved in the fitting process?
Paragon CRT and Ortho-k lenses are highly specialized and only specially certified optometrists are able to evaluate and fit patients for these lenses. During your specialized CRT fitting, one of our Cincinnati eye doctors will perform special measurements to determine if your are a good candidate for corneal reshaping therapy. Your eye doctor will make sure that the lenses are properly fitted to your eyes for comfort and safety. Much like how the health of the eye is monitored after LASIK surgery, you will need to return for follow-up appointments at days 1, 7, and 1 month. Additional follow-up appointments may be needed. There is no additional charge for normal follow-up appointments with CRT or Ortho-K.
How long will it take me to see clearly?
The amount of time it takes to for your vision to change with Ortho-k or Paragon CRT depends on several factors such as age or the amount of prescription being corrected. This can be different from person to person. Most people see results the next morning when they remove their lenses. Each night the CRT lenses are worn will continue to improve the quality of vision during the day until full correction is achieved. This is usually within a week, but those with higher prescriptions may take longer before attaining the full visual benefit.
For more information, and to see if Ortho-k lenses are good option for you, call or book your appointment online for a Paragon CRT lens evaluation today.
