Eye institute offers new treatment for myopia

The Marianas Eye Institute is now offering a new form of treatment for myopia or “nearsightedness” called Corneal Refractive Therapy, a non-surgical method that allows patients to be free of glasses and daytime contact lens wear.

The institute said this treatment is a non-surgical alternative to Lasik, the common surgical treatment for myopia.

“For many years now, Lasik has been available, and we have helped coordinate the treatment for our patients who were going off-island for Lasik. The new treatment, CRT, involves the use of a therapeutic contact lens that is worn during the sleeping hours. The lens gently reshapes the corneas. In the morning, you take the lenses out and are able to see well throughout the day,” the institute said in a statement. “The lenses are worn each night and removed each morning.”

The institute said that, unlike Lasik, CRT is reversible and, in Food and Drug Administration trials, there were no adverse effects reported.

“Over 94 percent of patients achieve vision of 20/30 or better within two weeks of initiating therapy,” the statement adds.

CRT is available for those who have up to -6.00 of myopia and up to 1.75 of astigmatism. It is ideal for those involved in sports, scuba divers, those working in dry or dusty environments that preclude the use of contact lenses, those who simply want to see clearly without their glasses or contacts, teenagers (who are too young for Lasik), or those who do not want to undergo the risk or the expense of a surgical procedure.

Dr. Mark Robertson is heading up the CRT program at Marianas Eye Institute, and can answer any questions patients might have. The cost for the procedure is $650 per eye, and includes the therapeutic lenses, the fitting process, and all visits related to the fitting for a six-month period. The therapeutic lenses need to be replaced annually, at a cost of $140 per lens.

Patients may read more about CRT at www.paragoncrt.com, which includes videos of patient’s sharing their experiences, as well as a comprehensive list of FAQ’s.

“We are happy to offer this exciting new refractive option for our patients with myopia and astigmatism. We continue to provide other options which include contact lens fittings, eyeglass prescriptions and manufacturing, a broad selection of over 400 frames (including prescription sunglasses), and pre and post-operative care for Lasik surgery,” said the institute’s David Khorram, MD.

The Marianas Eye Institute also provide the full range of diagnostic tests and treatment for medical eye problems for children and adults, diabetic eye care, laser treatment for retinal disease, and surgical services for cataracts, glaucoma and other conditions

Individuals who would like to schedule an appointment with the institute can call 235-9090. The Marianas Eye Institute is on Beach Road, in Garapan, across 13 Fishermen Monument. (PR)