Gas permeable lenses — are often used for corneal abnormalities such as keratoconus or irregular astigmatism.  These are small-diameter lenses that sit on the cornea, providing a smooth refractive surface to improve vision in ways glasses and commercial soft contacts cannot.

Scleral lenses — are large-diameter lenses that have seen a recent resurgence thanks to recent technological advancements that allow increased oxygen permeability to the eye.  These lenses are ideal for more advanced corneal conditions including advanced keratoconus or extensive irregularities where even small-diameter gas permeable lenses may be limited.  Sclerals sit on the sclera–the white portion of the eye–allowing the lens to vault over the cornea entirely.  Further, the lenses are filled with preservative-free saline prior to insertion, lubricating the cornea throughout the day.  These characteristics make scleral lenses also a great option for improved vision and comfort for patients with ocular surface disorders including dry eye disease, Sjogren’s Syndrome, and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.

Orthokeratology — also known as “overnight vision correction,” is a type of specially designed gas permeable lens that gently reshapes the cornea overnight while sleeping, minimizing the need to wear any glasses or contacts the following day.  This is a great, reversible option for patients with active lifestyles or who simply want to avoid the hassles of wearing glasses or contacts without compromising their vision.  In addition, research suggests that orthokeratology may reduce the progression of nearsightedness in children, ultimately reducing the risk of myopia-related ocular health concerns including retinal detachments, glaucoma, and vision loss.