Specialized Uses of Contact lenses

Regular contact lenses correct vision just like conventional glasses do, only they are in contact with the eye. Two types of lenses that serve a different purpose are orthokeratology lenses and decorative (plano) lenses.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a lens fitting procedure that uses specially designed rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses to change the curvature of the cornea to improve the eye’s ability to focus on objects only when worn. This procedure is used to correct myopia (nearsightedness).

Overnight Ortho-K lenses are very common. They are to be worn while sleeping for at least eight hours each night in order to maintain the treatment effect. They are removed upon awakening and not worn during the day. The vision correction effect is temporary. If Ortho-K is discontinued, the corneas will return to their original curvature and the wearer will become myopic again.The FDA requires that eye care professionals be trained and certified before using overnight Ortho-K lenses in their practice. You should ask your eye care professional about what lenses he or she is certified to fit if you are considering this procedure.
There are some Ortho-K lenses that are prescribed only for daytime wear.

Decorative (Plano) Contact Lenses

Some contact lenses are used to change the appearance of the eye and not to correct the vision. These are called plano, zero-powered or non-corrective lenses. They are colored lenses to enhance or change the color of the eyes or add a dramatic appeal of a cat or a witch etc. The FDA also regulates these types of contact lenses just like corrective contact lenses.
Plano lenses also carry the same risks to the eye.
They are - conjunctivitis (pink eye), corneal ulcers, corneal abrasion, vision impairment or blindness.

It is very vital for the health of your eyes not to buy contact lenses without a prescription.

You have to consider some essential points before buying decorative contact lenses.

Always get your eyes checked by a licensed eye care professional. Buy the lenses from an eye care professional who asks for an official prescription for the lenses. Always get a valid prescription that specifies the brand and lens dimensions and also gives directions for cleaning, disinfecting, and wearing the lenses. It is necessary to visit your eye care expert for follow-up eye examination.

Read more on Toric Lenses and Astigmatism for more specialized uses of contact lenses

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