Vision improvement while you sleep
By Dr. Thomas J. McGrath, Optometrist
Special to the Times

The newest advancement in refractive correction options, Corneal Refractive Therapy, (CRT), is now available. Freedom from the use of daytime contact lenses and glasses can be achieved with Paragon CRT contact lenses that temporarily correct nearsightedness (myopia) with or without moderate amounts of astigmatism. Paragon CRT is a specially designed therapeutic contact lens that gently and temporarily reshapes the cornea while the wearer sleeps. The therapy provides the patient with good vision for daily activities without contacts, glasses or surgery.

This is the option that many young patients have been waiting for, since they are not
candidates for refractive surgery. They now can have great vision with the freedom from
glasses and daytime contact lenses. Because the lenses are worn at night, CRT offers
parents a level of control over their child's vision correction they've never had before.

CRT has been shown to be effective for patients of various ages when worn during
sleeping hours, earning this therapy the first and only FDA approval for overnight use.
Whether the patient plays sports, spends time in a dusty environment, or is simply
applying make-up, with Corneal Refractive Therapy, nothing gets in the way of their
vision. Since there is no permanent change to the eye, the patient has the ultimate
control and flexibility in their vision correction. If a patient chooses to discontinue CRT
lens wear, their eyes go back to their original shape and prescription before CRT. So,
you get the freedom from wearing glasses or daytime contact lenses with the use of
CRT, while maintaining the flexibility of going back to those other correction modes if
you chose to.

CRT is a significant addition to the choices that patients now have to correct their vision.
They can choose between traditional glasses, soft and rigid contact lenses, refractive
surgery such as LASIK, and now Corneal Refractive Therapy.

Dr. McGrath is an Almaden Valley Optometrist. He has been certified (an FDA requirement) to fit Paragon CRT, making him one of a special group of eye care practitioners able to prescribe this unique lens.