Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses for High Myopia

Q: Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses for High Myopia

Hello： If you are over the age of 25, your vision is unlikely to change significantly unless there are some special pathological conditions. <br>The advantage of orthokeratology lenses is that you do not need to wear contact lenses during the day, but if you stop wearing them for

Rigid gas permeable contact lenses

Hello Doctor: I have a myopia of 800 degrees.
A few days ago, I went to an optical shop to get glasses, and they told me that my eyes are very demanding on vision and will continue to deteriorate.
Therefore, they recommended that I wear rigid gas permeable contact lenses, which are to be worn during the day, not at night.
However, my family discussed that wearing those could lead to contamination and other risks.
What is your opinion on this? Thank you ^_^ RITA

RITA, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/01/22

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology

Hello: If you are over the age of 25, your vision is unlikely to change significantly unless there are some special pathological conditions.
The advantage of orthokeratology lenses is that you do not need to wear contact lenses during the day, but if you stop wearing them for a week, your prescription will revert to its original state, so they must be worn long-term.
In terms of maintenance, they require careful cleaning just like regular contact lenses; otherwise, there is still a risk of corneal ulcers.
Therefore, fundamentally, their "risk" and "safety" are quite similar to those of regular contact lenses, and whether to use them depends on your needs.

Reply Date: 2007/01/22

More Info

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) contact lenses are a popular option for individuals with high myopia, such as yourself with a prescription of -800 degrees. These lenses are made from a firm plastic material that allows oxygen to pass through to the cornea, which is essential for maintaining eye health. Here’s a comprehensive overview of RGP lenses, their benefits, potential risks, and considerations for high myopia.

Benefits of RGP Contact Lenses
1. Vision Correction: RGP lenses provide excellent optical clarity and can correct high levels of myopia effectively. They maintain their shape on the eye, which helps in providing a stable and clear vision.

2. Durability: Unlike soft contact lenses, RGP lenses are more durable and resistant to deposits and scratches. This means they can last longer with proper care.

3. Oxygen Permeability: RGP lenses allow more oxygen to reach the cornea compared to traditional soft lenses. This is particularly important for individuals with high myopia, as it helps reduce the risk of corneal hypoxia (lack of oxygen), which can lead to complications.

4. Reduced Risk of Infection: While all contact lenses carry some risk of infection, RGP lenses are less likely to harbor bacteria and other pathogens due to their material and design. They are easier to clean and maintain than soft lenses.

5. Customization: RGP lenses can be custom-fitted to your eye shape, providing a more comfortable and effective fit, which is especially beneficial for those with high prescriptions.

Potential Risks and Considerations
1. Initial Discomfort: Many users experience discomfort when first wearing RGP lenses. It may take some time for your eyes to adjust to the new lenses. However, this discomfort usually diminishes with regular use.

2. Care and Maintenance: RGP lenses require diligent cleaning and care to prevent deposits and infections. You will need to follow a strict cleaning regimen, including using appropriate solutions and storing them correctly.

3. Risk of Eye Injury: While RGP lenses are generally safe, there is a risk of corneal abrasions or scratches if the lenses are not handled properly. It’s crucial to follow your eye care professional’s instructions on how to insert and remove the lenses.

4. Pollution and Environmental Factors: Concerns about pollution and environmental factors affecting eye health are valid. RGP lenses can be more susceptible to environmental irritants, so it’s important to ensure that your lenses are clean and that you practice good hygiene.

5. Not Suitable for Everyone: RGP lenses may not be suitable for individuals with certain eye conditions or those who have difficulty with lens handling. A thorough eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist is essential to determine if RGP lenses are the right choice for you.

Conclusion
In summary, RGP contact lenses can be an excellent option for managing high myopia, offering clear vision and comfort with proper care. While there are risks associated with their use, many of these can be mitigated through diligent hygiene practices and regular follow-ups with your eye care professional. If you have concerns about pollution or other risks, discussing these with your eye doctor can provide you with tailored advice and reassurance.

Ultimately, the decision to use RGP lenses should be made in consultation with an eye care professional who can assess your specific needs, lifestyle, and eye health. They can help you weigh the benefits against the potential risks and guide you in making an informed choice.

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