Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) is a revolutionary non-surgical process that reshapes your cornea while you sleep. This treatment is designed to temporarily correct myopia, giving you the freedom to enjoy clear vision during the day without the use of glasses or contact lenses.
 

Understanding How CRT Works
 

CRT is a method of reshaping your cornea while you sleep using specially designed contact lenses, allowing you to see clearly throughout the day. The concept behind CRT is relatively simple, but the science and technology that make it possible are incredibly advanced.
 

Before you go to sleep, you insert the CRT lenses (which are gas permeable contact lenses). These lenses gently reshape the surface of your cornea in a controlled manner. When you wake up in the morning, you remove the lenses. Your cornea retains this new shape for the majority of the day, giving you clear vision.
 

This process is similar to braces aligning teeth. Just as braces use gentle pressure to reshape the position of your teeth over time, CRT lenses reshape your corneas. The great news is that the effects are temporary and reversible, meaning if you stop wearing the lenses, your corneas will gradually return to their original shape.
 

Common Eye Conditions Addressed by CRT
 

While CRT is an excellent solution for those with myopia, it can also be used to correct other common eye conditions. For instance, CRT is effective at managing childhood myopia, a condition that is increasingly common among children and teenagers. By using CRT lenses, the progression of myopia can be slowed down, reducing the risk of developing serious eye conditions later in life.
 

Additionally, CRT can also help people with astigmatism, a condition that causes distorted vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. The CRT lenses can be customized to fit the unique shape of your corneas, helping to correct the distortion and improve vision.
 

Who is a Good Candidate for CRT?
 

CRT is a fantastic solution for a wide variety of individuals. It's particularly beneficial for those who lead active lifestyles and find glasses or contact lenses inconvenient. Swimmers, athletes, and those who work in dusty or windy conditions often find the freedom of clear vision without daytime eyewear a game-changer.
 

CRT is also a great option for people who are not suitable candidates for LASIK surgery due to thin corneas or dry eyes. Since CRT is a non-surgical procedure, it doesn't have the same risks or recovery time as LASIK.
 

However, it's important to remember that CRT isn't for everyone. It is not recommended for those with severe dry eye syndrome, certain corneal diseases, or large pupils. Therefore, it's crucial to have a detailed discussion with your optometrist to determine if you're a good candidate for this treatment.
 

Is CRT Right for You?
 

CRT is indeed a remarkable technology that offers a convenient and non-invasive way to see the world clearly. However, as with any medical treatment, it's essential to consider all aspects before making a decision.
 

Schedule a consultation with our optometrist to determine if CRT is the right solution for your vision needs, contact Clarke EyeCare Center at our Burkburnett or Wichita Falls, Texas, office. Please call 940-569-4131 or 940-905-0700 to book an appointment today.