How to Fit Contact Lenses With Keratoconus

 A rigid gas permeable contact lens Keratoconus is a degenerative eye disorder which is characterized by corneal thinning and protrusion resulting in decreased vision such as shortsightedness and corneal distortion.
Rigid gas permeable contact lenses (also known as hard lenses) are the first option for keratoconus when good vision is not achievable with the use of spectacles.

The main advantages of gas permeable contact lenses for use with keratoconus are to improve vision and maintain the health of the cornea by providing a new anterior surface to the eye.
New users of contact lenses may find fitting the lens a little daunting and it may take a bit of time and practice to get used to.
Difficulty:ModerateRigid gas permeable contact lensFragrance-free soapSaline solutionGas permeable advanced cleaning solutionGas permeable advanced conditioning solution1
Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your contact lenses. Fragrance-free soap is best.
2
Remove the contact lens from the storage case by gently putting your finger onto the lens. It should stick to your finger and lift out.
3
Place the lens on the palm of your hand.
4
Add a drop of gas permeable advanced cleaning solution to the lens and rub with the finger of your other hand until it has been well cleaned.
5
Rinse with saline solution until the lens is clear.
6
Examine the lens before insertion for damage/scratches.
7
Balance the lens on the tip of your forefinger and add a drop of gas permeable advanced conditioning solution to the inside surface of the lens.
8
Pull the lower lid down with the middle finger of the same hand and hold the upper lid open firmly from above with the middle finger of the other hand.
9
Place the lens on your cornea.
10
Release the lower and upper lid and blink. If the lens is not properly centered on the cornea, gently move the lens using the eyelids to slide it into place.
Sudden eye movements and excessive tear flow such as crying can cause a lens to move off of the cornea and onto the whites of the eye. If this happens simply locate the lens by looking in a mirror. Don't panic as it cannot slip behind the eye. It may be necessary to pull your eyelids back to expose the lens. Be sure to stand over a surface from where the lens can be retrieved if it drops suddenly from the eye.
Immediately remove your contacts if your eyes are sore, red, or there is any discharge and contact your eye care practitioner.
You must never use saliva or tap water on the lens as this will significantly increase the risk of infection.
Remove lenses before using medicated eye drops, undergoing surgery or anesthesia.
Lenses should not be worn while sleeping, unless advised by your practitioner.
Do not wear contact lenses while swimming unless using swimming goggles.