How to Get Glasses with Corneal Scarring: A Guide for Patients - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

When dealing with corneal scarring, especially when it affects your vision, it is essential to approach the situation with care and understanding. Corneal scarring can result from various factors, including previous injuries, infections, or underlying conditions. This scarring can lead to blurred vision, as you have experienced, particularly if the scar is located in the central part of the cornea.


Understanding Your Condition
Corneal scars can significantly impact your visual acuity, and the degree of impact can vary based on the size, depth, and location of the scar. If the scar is dense and located in the visual axis, it can obstruct light from entering the eye clearly, leading to blurred vision. In your case, since you mentioned that your left eye has a central corneal scar, this is likely contributing to your visual difficulties.


Getting Your Glasses
1. Consult an Eye Care Professional: Before getting new glasses, it is crucial to consult with an eye care professional, preferably an ophthalmologist or an optometrist who specializes in corneal issues. They can provide a comprehensive eye examination to assess the extent of your corneal scarring and its impact on your vision.

2. Refraction Test: During your visit, the eye care professional will perform a refraction test to determine your exact prescription. This test measures how light rays are focused by your eye and helps in determining the correct lens power needed to compensate for your vision loss. However, keep in mind that if the corneal scarring is significant, the refraction results may not fully correct your vision to what it was before the scarring.

3. Specialized Lenses: Depending on the severity of your corneal scarring, standard glasses may not be sufficient. In some cases, specialized lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses or scleral lenses, may be recommended. These lenses can help provide a smoother optical surface over the scarred cornea, improving visual clarity.

4. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Some eye care professionals may use advanced imaging techniques like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to assess the cornea's structure in detail. This can help in determining the best course of action for your vision correction.

5. Fitting and Adjustments: Once you have your prescription, you can visit an optical shop to get your glasses made. Ensure that the optician is aware of your corneal scarring, as they may need to make specific adjustments to the lenses to optimize your vision.


Managing Expectations
It is essential to manage your expectations regarding the outcome of wearing glasses with corneal scarring. While glasses can help improve your vision, they may not restore it to 100%. If your vision remains significantly impaired, your eye care professional may discuss other options, such as surgical interventions or treatments aimed at improving the health of your cornea.


Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-up appointments with your eye care provider are crucial to monitor the condition of your cornea and adjust your prescription as needed. If you experience any changes in your vision or discomfort while wearing glasses, be sure to report these to your eye care professional promptly.


Conclusion
In summary, while you can get glasses with corneal scarring, it is vital to work closely with an eye care professional to ensure that you receive the appropriate prescription and lens type. They can guide you through the process, ensuring that you achieve the best possible visual outcome given your condition. Remember, your eye health is paramount, and addressing any concerns with a qualified professional will help you navigate this journey effectively.