Corneal Refractive Therapy

One of the best things about advanced vision correction treatment is that there are plenty of options to consider that will help patients achieve optimal vision. Some are more invasive than others, but by meeting with a well-trained optometrist, you will be able to receive a customized treatment that will allow you to achieve optimal vision.

One such treatment that a number of people have benefited from is CRT. Since the term is unfamiliar to many people, we'd like to take a brief look at CRT and how it may be of benefit to you.

About Refractive Errors

Refractive errors refer to issues with the corneal shape that cause light to improperly pass through the eye. This results in focusing problems when the light reaches the retina, the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. You likely know refractive errors better by the following terms:

Myopia (Nearsightedness) ‐ A condition in which it is easier to see nearby objects than distant objects
Hyperopia (Farsightedness) ‐ A condition in which it is easier to see distant objects than nearby objects
Astigmatism ‐ A general blurring of vision that often accompanies myopia and hyperopia

What is CRT?

CRT refers to the use of glass permeable contacts that are worn at night as a patient sleeps. The contacts are removed in the morning, allowing patients to experience good vision throughout the day.

CRT is also known by the following names:

Ortho-K
Overnight vision correction
Orthokeratology

How Does CRT Work?

When the CRT contact lenses are worn at night, they reshape the cornea, addressing refractive errors. The effects are temporary, so the CRT contacts need to be worn each night (or as instructed) to maintain results.

This is similar to the way that normal contact lenses affect the shape of the cornea. Before aneye care specialist performs LASIK, he or she actually asks patients to stop wearing contacts for a few weeks before surgery so that the corneas can return to their natural shape unaffected by the contacts.

How Effective is CRT?

The results of CRT are quite good, with most patients achieving 20/40 vision or better. The results will last for about a day or so only, so repeated use of the CRT lenses is required. While using the CRT lenses, patients will not have to wear corrective lenses to see well during the day.

Ideal Candidates for CRT

The best candidates for CRT are people who would like to achieve optimal vision but are not good candidates for refractive surgery and would prefer not to wear glasses or contact lenses during the day.

Is CRT Right for Me?

That depends on a number of factors, actually. During the consultation process, we will be sure to go over all potential treatments that may be suitable for your needs. We want to provide you with all the information available so that you can make the most well-informed and empowered decision possible.

Learn More About Advanced Vision Correction

For more information about CRT as well as your many other options available for effective vision correction treatment, be sure to contact our Austin eye care specialists today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the very best vision possible.

Tech Ridge Vision remains one of the few eye care practices in Austin which is certified to provide this service to its patients. Schedule an appointment today.