Overcoming Keratoconus: The Role of Custom Contact Lenses


Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, leading to distorted vision. While mild cases can sometimes be managed with glasses or standard contact lenses, many patients require more specialized solutions as the condition advances. Custom contact lenses provide a highly effective way to improve vision clarity and comfort for individuals with keratoconus.
 

Understanding Keratoconus and Its Impact on Vision

Keratoconus affects the cornea, the transparent front surface of the eye responsible for focusing light. As the cornea becomes irregularly shaped, it can lead to:
 
  • Blurred or distorted vision

  • Increased sensitivity to light

  • Difficulty seeing clearly at night

  • Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions


Since the condition worsens over time, early diagnosis and proper management are crucial to preserving visual function.
 

Why Custom Contact Lenses Are Essential

Traditional soft contact lenses often fail to provide adequate vision correction for keratoconus due to the cornea's irregular shape. Custom contact lenses are designed to fit the unique contours of the eye, offering better vision correction and improved comfort. Several types of custom lenses are available:

1. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses maintain their shape on the eye, creating a smooth optical surface that corrects distorted vision. They provide sharper vision compared to soft lenses but may take time to adapt to.

2. Hybrid Lenses

These lenses combine the clear optics of an RGP center with the comfort of a soft lens skirt. They offer excellent vision correction while providing a more stable and comfortable fit.

3. Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger in diameter and rest on the white part of the eye (sclera) rather than the cornea. They create a fluid-filled vault over the cornea, reducing irritation and improving visual clarity. Scleral lenses are often the preferred choice for advanced keratoconus cases.

4. Custom Soft Lenses

For mild keratoconus, custom soft lenses designed specifically for irregular corneas can provide an alternative to traditional rigid lenses while maintaining a comfortable fit.
 

The Benefits of Custom Contact Lenses for Keratoconus

 
  • Superior Vision Correction: Custom lenses help neutralize the irregular corneal shape, providing clearer and more stable vision.

  • Enhanced Comfort: Unlike standard lenses, custom lenses are tailored to fit each patient’s unique corneal structure, reducing discomfort and irritation.

  • Long-Term Eye Health: Properly fitted lenses minimize contact with the corneal surface, reducing the risk of complications such as corneal abrasions.

 

Schedule a Consultation Today

Living with keratoconus can be challenging, but custom contact lenses offer a practical and effective solution for maintaining clear vision. Whether you need RGP, hybrid, scleral, or custom soft lenses, finding the right option depends on your specific needs and the progression of your condition.

If you have keratoconus and are struggling with your current vision correction options, schedule a consultation with DeNovo Eye to explore the best custom contact lenses for your eyes. Visit our office in McKinney, Texas, or call (469) 317-2020 to book an appointment today.
 

Helpful Articles