Eye Dream - Overnight Vision Correction
Overnight vision correction is the use of specially designed rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contact lenses to alter the shape of the cornea in order to reduce or correct myopia (short-sight). It can also be effective with low degrees of astigmatism (when the front of the eye is rugby ball shaped). It has been practised to a limited degree in the United States for many years, though in the last 5 years new technology has become available (corneal topography) which accurately scans the cornea and allows the manufacture lenses with much greater accuracy that in the past, giving a controlled and precise reduction in the eye' s optical imperfection. In addition, new developments in lens materials have been made that enable safe overnight wear to be possible.
This technique is now a viable and reversible alternative to refractive surgery. The cornea is highly elastic, however, and always returns to its original shape. For this reason retainer lenses are worn nightly, in order to maintain the 'new' corneal shape.
An Overnight vision correction lens changes the shape of the cornea overnight giving them good vision in the day
Why Overnight Vision Correction ?
The main focus on Overnight vision correction at present is it's ability to help control myopia progression in children and teenagers. Recent studies have shown that what drives myopia progression is peripheral retinal blur. Glasses and regular contact lenses will control central blur, providing a clearly perceived image, however the peripheral retina will still receive a blurred image. Due to the unique way in which Overnight vision correction lenses flatten the corneal profile to correct the myopia, peripheral retinal blur is reduced, and it is thought that this is the reason why Overnight vision correction is the only proven method to help control the myopic shift in youngsters.
The other main purpose of Overnight vision correction is to be free of both contact lenses and spectacles for the majority of, or possibly all, waking hours. The freedom from any artificial aid appeals to myopic spectacle and contact lens wearers and is ideal for sportsmen, those who work in dusty or dirty environments or people who find spectacles and conventional lenses just a plain nuisance. In addition those who need to have a certain degree of uncorrected vision to satisfy their employers or a licensing body (e.g. pilots, police) can also be helped by Overnight vision correction.
Is Everyone Suitable for Overnight Vision Correction?
The short answer is no. The procedure works best up to -4.00 dioptres of myopia and 2.00 dioptres of astigmatism. Errors above this may be reduced but total correction is not usually possible. In addition there are several unknown factors for each individual, such as the complexity of the corneal shape and the rigidity of the cornea itself. Thus the speed of corneal moulding from one individual to the next will vary. Whilst the success rate is very high, total success cannot be guaranteed due to these factors.
What Does The Procedure Involve?
First an initial assessment appointment including a full eye examination and computerised corneal topographical scanning. This gives us the opportunity to both assess the general condition and health of the eyes and also to determine the likely effectively of the procedure in that individual
Based on these measurements, a pair of Overnight vision correction lenses will be manufactured, to reshape the cornea to a flatter profile. This reduces myopia and astigmatism whilst dramatically improving unaided eyesight. Excellent vision and comfort are normally maintained whilst wearing Overnight vision correction lenses.
Your will have an assessment the first morning after wearing the lenses overnight, and then the lenses will take around 2 weeks to have their 'full effect'. Therefore the next check up will be after 2-3 weeks, when we will check that the full correction has been attained. If not, the lenses will be re-made, usually with minor adjustments, until the vision is sufficiently corrected (although you will only pay for the final, successful pair of lenses!). You can expect to need around 2-4 visits in the first 2 months of being fitted with Overnight vision correction.
Once the lenses are working well and the vision is sufficiently corrected, you will need to wear the lenses every night, in order to maintain the effect. A check up every 6 months is recommended, and you will need to replace the lenses every 6-12 months, as they will degrade with time and usage.
Does Overnight Vision Correction Have Any Advantages Over Laser Surgery (Lasik) ?
Yes - as no ethical surgeon will treat a patient until they are at least 18, or more usually 21 years old. It does not cause the permanent hazy vision experienced by some patients following laser surgery. Both eyes are done together (rather than several weeks or months apart) . Changes in prescription over time can be dealt without surgery. The procedure is REVERSIBLE (Lasik is not!).
There is very significant understanding of the effects of contact lens wear on the cornea, because of the many years of lens use. Lasik's effects are not totally understood. There is no post-operative pain. Overnight vision correction is significantly cheaper and does not preclude surgery in the future.
What are the costs?
The procedure is time consuming and involves several lens changes, which means that there will be more than one consultation fee. Once complete, the on-going costs are significantly less than conventional soft contact lens wear. In the first year you can expect to pay around £ 1000, which covers all of the appointments, and one pair of lenses. This cost will be slightly higher if you have astigmatism, as the lenses required are more complex.
What Are The Advantages of Overnight Vision Correction?
- It may slow down the increase in myopia in children.
- Good vision without spectacles or contact lenses for all/most of the day.
- It is not a surgical procedure.
- It is reversible.
- It is modifiable.
- It does not hurt.
- Using well established contact lens fitting techniques mean that there are very few risks
What Are The Disadvantages of Overnight Vision Correction?
- You must be prepared to allow for 4-6 visits over 3-6 months.
- Retainer lens wear is essential or the cornea will revert to its original shape.
- The degree of success is high but cannot always be guaranteed.
- The speed of reduction in the myopia varies from one person to the next.
- You must follow instructions implicitly for the best results.