Specialty prosthetic lenses for cornea conditions explained
Contact lenses are typically used first and foremost for vision correction. At Weston Contact Lens Institute, we regularly work with patients to prescribe and fit the best lenses to treat eye conditions. Our lenses include a range of different specialty lenses often used for conditions in which traditional contact lenses are not ideal. Beyond just vision treatment, though, we also offer several types of specialty prosthetic lenses that are meant primarily for cosmetic purposes.
The Importance of Prosthetic or Cosmetic Contact Lenses
Sometimes, eye conditions or injuries can do damage to the cornea or the rest of the eye in ways that go beyond vision loss. For instance, eye trauma can result in visible disfigurement to the eye. Disfigurement can also result from eye infections, surgical complications, congenital defects, retinal detachments, or conditions like glaucoma and Sjogren’s syndrome.
In situations such as these, people may be looking for specialty contact lenses that can serve multiple roles. On the one hand, they want a contact lens that provides boosts for vision quality (if possible) and other therapeutic benefits. On the other hand, the patient may also be seeking a prosthetic that can ostensibly “cover up” or “hide” his or her eye disfigurement.
At Weston Contact Lens Institute, we can offer lenses to fulfill this need for our patients. Rather than being fully transparent, cosmetic lenses have a design on them that mimics the natural look of the eye. These lenses are not just available in one design, either. On the contrary, in addition to fitting the lenses so they can be worn comfortably, we can also match the look of the lens to match the color, hue, shape, and detail of the patient’s actual eye.
Wearing prosthetic lenses, someone with corneal disfigurement can effectively conceal that disfigurement behind something that looks very natural. To an outsider, the disfigured eye will look completely normal. We have often heard from patients that this concealment makes them feel more confident and more comfortable in their own skin. They can go to work, or the grocery store, or carry out any other day-to-day activities without anyone staring at their disfigurement.
Other Benefits of Cosmetic Lenses
Ultimately, the most significant benefit of cosmetic prosthetic lenses is quality of life. Having the option to make one or both eyes look normal and healthy again is an attractive option for people who have suffered some form of eye trauma or disfigurement.
However, it’s also important to note that these lenses are not solely for cosmetic use. On the contrary, a prosthetic lens can also offer benefits for vision, comfort, and eye health. A patient with a visibly damaged eye may still retain vision in that eye but struggle with side effects or symptoms like heightened sensitivity to light, inability to see certain colors, reduced contrast, double vision, or other vision problems. Cosmetic lenses can be altered in several ways to control the flow of light, adjust prescription strength, and generally maximize the quality of vision for the damaged eye(s).
Learn More about Prosthetic and Cosmetic Lenses from Weston Contact Lens Institute
Are you interested in learning more about prosthetic/cosmetic contact lenses? At Weston Contact Lens Institute, we can help you explore this option from multiple different angles. On your first visit to our office, we will work with you to determine if cosmetic lenses might work for you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.