If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with keratoconus, a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge, you know the significant impact it can have on your vision and quality of life. However, there is a transformative solution that can help restore clear, comfortable sight – Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) contact lenses.
RGP lenses, also known as gas permeable lenses, are a game-changer for individuals with keratoconus. Unlike traditional soft contact lenses, RGP lenses are made of a firm, durable material that retains its shape on the eye. This unique design helps to counteract the irregular curvature of the keratoconus cornea, providing exceptional visual acuity and clarity.
At the Khanna Vision Institute, our team of experienced eye care professionals is dedicated to helping patients with keratoconus achieve their best possible vision. We have extensive expertise in fitting RGP lenses, ensuring a comfortable, customized solution that meets the unique needs of each individual.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses
Purpose:
RGP lenses are used to correct the distorted vision caused by the irregular shape of the cornea in keratoconus. They are more effective than glasses and soft contact lenses for moderate to advanced stages of the disease.
Structure:
Material: Made from durable, rigid materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea, maintaining corneal health.
Design: Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses maintain their shape on the eye, providing a consistent refractive surface.
How it works:
Vision Correction: The rigid lens sits on the cornea and creates a new, smooth front surface that compensates for the corneal irregularities. This corrects the distorted vision caused by the cone-like bulging of the cornea.
Stability: RGP lenses maintain their shape and position better than soft lenses, providing more stable and consistent vision correction.
Advantages:
Improved Visual Acuity: RGP lenses provide clearer vision compared to soft lenses by masking the irregular shape of the cornea.
Oxygen Permeability: They allow oxygen to pass through, which is crucial for corneal health, reducing the risk of complications.
Durability: RGP lenses are long-lasting and less prone to tearing compared to soft lenses.
Customization: These lenses can be custom-designed to fit the specific shape and needs of the patient’s cornea, enhancing comfort and effectiveness.
Limitations:
Initial Discomfort: RGP lenses can be less comfortable initially compared to soft lenses. It may take several weeks for patients to adapt to the feel of the lenses.
Fitting Challenges: Accurate fitting by an experienced eye care professional is essential, as poorly fitted lenses can cause discomfort and inadequate vision correction.
Cost and Maintenance: RGP lenses can be more expensive upfront than soft lenses. They also require careful cleaning and maintenance to ensure longevity and prevent infections.
Lens Displacement: In some cases, the lenses might dislodge from the cornea, especially in patients with severe keratoconus.
Usage and Care
Fitting: The fitting process involves precise measurements of the cornea and possibly multiple trials to find the most comfortable and effective lens design. An eye care professional will typically use a corneal topographer to map the shape of the cornea and determine the best fit.
Adaptation Period: Patients new to RGP lenses often need an adaptation period during which the wear time is gradually increased.
Cleaning and Storage: RGP lenses require specific cleaning and storage solutions. Daily cleaning is crucial to remove protein deposits and prevent eye infections.
Regular Check-Ups: Regular follow-up appointments with an eye care professional are essential to monitor the fit of the lenses and adjust as necessary for changes in the cornea over time.
Don’t settle for subpar vision or the discomfort of traditional contact lenses. Discover the transformative power of RGP lenses and take control of your eye health. Contact the Khanna Vision Institute today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you or your loved one achieve the clear, confident vision you deserve.