Corneal Refractive Therapy

Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) uses gas permeable contact lenses, which act as a vision retainer to gradually re-shape the front surface of the eye (the cornea) during sleep. This temporarily eliminates or reduces nearsightedness.

The contacts are worn each night and removed upon awaking. This procedure will provide clear vision during the day without the use of glasses or contacts.

CRT is a safe and effective way to temporarily reduce nearsightedness in adults and children. It is approved by the FDA and has been utilized by eye doctors for many years. We are pleased to offer this technology to our patients.

Adults

Many adults with glasses and contacts struggle to do the things they love to do. For example; golfing, skiing, biking and swimming can be difficult while wearing glasses or contacts. Many suffer from dry eye, allergies, or other eye conditions, which causes irritation with daily wear contacts. CRT often works very well for active patients who do not want to be bothered by the hassles of glasses or contacts.

CRT can be a good alternative to LASIK. It can work for those that are not good candidates for LASIK because their glasses prescription has not been stable. It is also a safe alternative to those that are hesitant to have a permanent surgical procedure. CRT is completely reversible. If the lenses are discontinued, the eye will go back to its original shape in a matter of days.

Children

CRT is a great alternative to glasses and contacts for children. Many kids are unable to wear glasses while playing sports or during outdoor activities. By wearing CRT lenses at night, they are able to see clearly during the day without contacts or glasses.

CRT has been shown to slow the progression of nearsightedness. Many parents are concerned that their child will keep getting more nearsighted each year, requiring stronger and stronger glasses. Over time, doctors have observed less vision decline in patients using CRT lenses compared to those using glasses or soft contacts.

CRT Frequently Asked Questions:

I’ve never heard of CRT, is it new?
No, CRT has been around for decades. It is also referred to as orthokeratolgy (ortho-k).

Is CRT safe?
Yes, CRT is very safe and completely painless. The FDA approved the procedure in 2002.

Are the CRT lenses uncomfortable?
CRT lenses are more rigid than typical soft contact lenses, so some patients report that initially they can feel the lenses in their eyes. Most patients adjust quickly to the CRT lenses and are able to wear them every night without any discomfort whatsoever.

Who is a candidate for CRT?
Patients of any age with low to moderate amounts of nearsightedness (less than –4.00) and with minimal
astigmatism are good candidates.

How is CRT different than LASIK?
LASIK surgery permanently removes corneal tissue, which corrects vision by altering the shape of the eye. CRT lenses are worn overnight causing a gentle reshaping of the cornea as you sleep. CRT is completely reversible.

How much does CRT cost?
The entire program which includes two sets of contact lenses is about 1/3 the cost of LASIK surgery. For more
detailed pricing information please contact our office.

CRT Resources

Insturctions for CRT use downloadable pdf

Instructional Videos