What Is Corneal Refractive Therapy? A Non-Surgical Way to Correct Vision

If you’re looking for freedom from daytime glasses or contact lenses but aren’t ready for laser vision surgery, Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) may be the solution you’ve been searching for. This innovative, non-surgical treatment gently reshapes your cornea while you sleep, allowing you to enjoy clear vision throughout the day without corrective eyewear.

What Is Corneal Refractive Therapy?

Corneal Refractive Therapy, often referred to as CRT or Orthokeratology (Ortho-K), is a non-surgical vision correction treatment that uses specially designed, gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight. While you sleep, the lenses gently reshape the surface of your cornea so that light entering your eye focuses properly on the retina. When you remove the lenses in the morning, you can see clearly throughout the day without glasses or contact lenses.

How Does CRT Work?

The cornea plays a critical role in focusing light. In people with myopia, the cornea is slightly too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. CRT lenses gently flatten the central cornea overnight, correcting how light enters the eye.

The process is safe and carefully monitored. During your fitting at Advanced Vision Institute, we use detailed corneal mapping technology to customize your lenses for precise and comfortable results.

Most patients begin noticing improved vision within a few days, with full correction often achieved within one to two weeks.

Who Is a Good Candidate for CRT?

CRT can be an excellent option for:

• Children and teens with progressive myopia
• Adults who want to reduce dependence on glasses or contacts
• Athletes or active individuals
• Patients who are not candidates for LASIK or prefer a non-surgical option
• Individuals who work in dusty or dry environments

One of the most significant benefits of CRT is its role in myopia management for children. Research shows that orthokeratology can help slow the progression of myopia, which may reduce the risk of serious eye health complications later in life. A comprehensive eye exam is necessary to determine if CRT is right for you or your child.

Benefits of Corneal Refractive Therapy

Patients often choose CRT because it offers:

• Non-surgical, reversible treatment
• Clear vision all day without glasses or daytime contacts
• Safe and FDA-approved technology
• Improved comfort compared to daytime contact lens wear
• Potential slowing of myopia progression in children

Since the treatment is reversible, if you decide to stop wearing the lenses, your cornea will gradually return to its original shape.

What to Expect During Treatment

Your CRT journey begins with a detailed consultation and corneal mapping. Custom lenses are then designed specifically for your eyes.

After receiving your lenses, you’ll wear them overnight. Follow-up visits are important to ensure your eyes are responding well and that your prescription is fully corrected. Proper hygiene and lens care are essential to maintain healthy eyes and optimal results. Our team will provide thorough instructions and ongoing support throughout your treatment.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Corneal Refractive Therapy offers a safe, effective, and non-surgical way to correct vision while you sleep. Whether you’re looking to reduce your dependence on glasses, manage your child’s progressing myopia, or explore alternatives to LASIK, CRT may be the right solution for your lifestyle.

Contact Advanced Vision Institute to schedule a consultation and find out if Corneal Refractive Therapy is right for you or your child. Contact our Henderson or Summerlin office in Las Vegas, Nevada, by calling (702) 819-9800 to book an appointment today.