At both our Burleigh Waters and Tweed Heads eye clinic locations, our optometrists can offer treatment solutions to our patients who may be suffering from the effects of keratoconus and recommend specialised contact lenses to provide therapy. Keratoconus is a condition that affects the shape of the cornea, causing it to become more conical and thinner over time. This can result in a range of visual impairments, including blurred vision, double vision, and halos around lights. We find that while glasses and traditional contact lenses may provide some degree of correction for people with mild to moderate keratoconus, they may not be sufficient to provide clear vision in more advanced cases.
In recent years, our use of Mini-scleral contact lenses has shown to be a life changing option for people with keratoconus. These lenses are similar to traditional scleral lenses in that they cover a larger portion of the eye than traditional contact lenses, but they are smaller in diameter, making them easier to insert and remove.
Mini-scleral lenses work by creating a fluid reservoir between the lens and the cornea, which helps to smooth out irregularities in the corneal surface and improve visual acuity. The lenses also help to protect the cornea and prevent further damage, making them an ideal option for people with progressive keratoconus.
One of the main advantages for our patients is the ease of use of Mini-scleral contact lenses. Unlike traditional scleral lenses, which can be difficult to insert and
remove due to their larger size, Mini-scleral lenses are designed to be more user-friendly. They are also more comfortable to wear, as they do not exert as much pressure on the eye.
Mini-scleral lenses are also highly customizable, which allows us to tailor them to the unique needs of each individual patient. They can be made in a range of sizes, shapes, and materials to ensure a perfect fit, and we can have them adjusted over time if the shape of your cornea changes.
Overall, Mini-scleral contact lenses represent an exciting development in the field of available keratoconus treatments for our patients. They offer you a safe, effective, and comfortable way to correct vision and improve your quality of life if you suffer from this challenging condition. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, or visual impairments due to already diagnosed keratoconus, book in with your optometrist to discuss whether Mini-scleral lenses may be right for you. With the right treatment, it is possible to manage your symptoms of keratoconus and enjoy clearer vision once again.