CRT (Ortho-K) Orthokeratology is a non-surgical method of vision corruption that allows patients to experience clear vision without the use of glasses or contact lenses throughout the day. With orthokeratology, a specially designed therapeutic lens is inserted into the eye nightly and worn while sleeping to reduce myopia or nearsightedness by reshaping the corneal surface. Upon removal of the lens in the morning, one can experience clear, natural vision for the full day.
Orthokeratology has also been shown to slow the progression of myopia in children. However, the diverse anatomical variations among children make it difficult to predict the final visual outcome for each individual.
Paragon Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT)
Corneal refractive therapy is a type of corneal reshaping using technology patented by Paragon. At our office, we use Paragon’s FDA approved specially designed oxygen permeable contact lenses to reshape the eye. Improvement in vision is seen within the first few days of initiating treatment and patients achieve optimal vision within 10 to 14 days.
Why should I consider Corneal Refractive Therapy?
Do any of the following apply to you?
- I wear glasses or contacts for nearsightedness or astigmatism.
- I don’t like wearing my glasses or contacts during the day.
- I feel glasses or contacts inhibit my ability to enjoy physical activities such as various sports, running, biking or swimming.
- I am unable to wear contact lenses due to discomfort or allergies.
- My child has needed a stronger eyeglass prescription every year.
- My child does not like to wear his/her glasses.
- My child is constantly losing or breaking his/her glasses.
- I’m interested in LASIK but I am not ready or I am not a candidate.
Am I a good candidate for Paragon CRT?
These lenses are designed for those with low to moderate myopia and can also correct mild amounts of astigmatism. Hyperopia or farsightedness is not correctable with CRT. In addition, patients who currently wear progressive or bifocal lenses may continue to need reading glasses. Please schedule a consultation to determine whether you or your child is a good candidate.
At what age can I begin using Paragon CRT lenses?
The FDA has not placed any age restrictions for corneal refractive therapy with Paragon CRT. These lenses are a great option for children and teens that have demonstrated increasing myopia as well as for those active in sports or extra curricular activities.
What are the CRT lenses like?
They are hard lenses similar in size to a soft contact lens and are not any more difficult to insert or remove. Since these lenses are worn while sleeping, they eliminate any discomfort one may experience with contact lenses worn during the day. Risks are the same as those involved with regular contact wear and the FDA has not reported any serious adverse side effects with Paragon CRT lenses.
Can I see with the CRT lenses?
Yes. You will be able to see clearly with the lenses in. During the initial treatment period, if the lenses are not worn nightly, vision the next day may be blurry or slowly decrease throughout the day. Over time, lenses may only need to be worn every other night to maintain good vision throughout the day.
How often do I need to replace the CRT lenses?
With proper care, replacement of the lenses will typically occur once a year. It is recommended to have a spare pair of lenses in car they are lost or broken as vision may be reduced if the lenses are not worn overnight.
Can I have LASIK after CRT?
Yes. CRT is reversible. After discontinuation of the lenses, the cornea will slowly return to its natural pre-treatment state. Your doctor will monitor changes in your corneal shape and vision in order to determine when you are ready to proceed with LASIK.
