Specialized contact lens practice
In certain situations, vision can no longer be satisfactorily corrected with glasses. This is particularly the case in corneal conditions, but also in people with high refractive errors (significant myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism). Specialized contact lens fitting then provides personalized solutions using contact lenses adapted to the shape of the eye and the patient’s visual needs.
Placed directly on the eye, contact lenses offer more precise correction than glasses. They help neutralize corneal irregularities, improve image sharpness, and reduce visual distortions often experienced with high prescriptions.
Main types of specialized contact lenses
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- Specialized soft contact lenses
Soft contact lenses are made from flexible and comfortable materials, usually based on hydrogel or silicone hydrogel, which allow good oxygen transmission to the cornea. Used for certain high refractive errors or moderate corneal irregularities, they provide good comfort and gradual adaptation while improving visual quality.
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- Rigid gas permeable contact lenses
Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses, also known as “hard” lenses, are made from rigid materials that are permeable to oxygen, allowing excellent corneal oxygenation. They provide very sharp and precise vision, often superior to soft lenses, especially in cases of astigmatism, corneal deformation, or high prescriptions.
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- Scleral contact lenses
Scleral contact lenses are a specific type of large-diameter rigid lenses. Unlike conventional rigid lenses that rest on the cornea, scleral lenses rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye) and completely vault over the cornea, creating a fluid-filled space between the lens and the cornea. They are particularly indicated for severe corneal disorders, complex high refractive errors, and certain severe dry eye conditions.
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- Hybrid contact lenses
These lenses combine a rigid center for visual quality with a soft skirt for comfort, offering a compromise between performance and tolerance.
Beyond vision correction, some contact lenses also play a protective role. Scleral lenses, for example, maintain a constant layer of fluid over the cornea, helping to relieve symptoms of severe dry eye, promote corneal healing, and protect the eye from external aggressions.
Contact lenses to slow the progression of myopia in young patients
Myopia in children and adolescents is becoming increasingly common and may progress rapidly during growth. Today, there are contact lenses specifically designed to slow the progression of myopia while ensuring good everyday visual quality.
Myopia that progresses significantly during childhood can increase the risk of certain ocular complications in adulthood. The goal is not only to correct vision, but also to limit the increase of myopia over time.
What are these specific lenses?
These are contact lenses with a particular optical design, different from conventional lenses. They provide effective vision correction and have a recognized effect in slowing myopia progression.
Depending on the child’s profile, these lenses may be worn during the day or at night (such as orthokeratology lenses). The choice depends on age, lifestyle, degree of myopia, and eye morphology.
These lenses may be proposed:
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- For myopic children and adolescents
- When myopia is progressive
- For young patients who are able to comply with hygiene and wearing instructions
A complete ophthalmologic examination is essential before any lens fitting.
The success of treatment relies on precise lens fitting, regular follow-up with the optometrist and ophthalmologist, and the involvement of both the child and parents in following the prescribed guidelines.
When properly fitted and monitored, these lenses represent an effective and safe solution for managing progressive myopia.
Each contact lens fitting requires a thorough examination and regular follow-up to select the most appropriate lens according to the shape of the eye, the underlying condition, and the patient’s visual needs. The goal is to improve vision while preserving long-term ocular health.
Steps involved in specialized contact lens fitting include:
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- A comprehensive visual assessment and evaluation of visual needs
- Specific measurements and examinations for lens fitting
- Selection of the most appropriate type of contact lens
- Trial lenses
- Training in lens handling and instructions for lens care
- Regular follow-up and adjustments if necessary
Do not hesitate to book an appointment at our clinic in Geneva to discuss your contact lens needs.
