Reverse geometry contact lens wear after photorefractive keratectomy, radial keratotomy, or penetrating keratoplasty.

PURPOSE: To determine if a super diffusion coefficient of lens/lens thickness (Dk/L) reverse geometry gas permeable (steep peripheral and flatter central curve) contact lenses can be successfully worn after excimer photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), radial keratotomy (RK), or penetrating keratoplasty (PK).

METHODS: Patients with residual ametropia after PRK, RK, or PK were fitted with reverse geometry lenses (Plateau lens in SF-P material; Menicon USA, Inc, Clovis, CA, U.S.A.). Contact lens fit characteristics and comfort were assessed. Lens centration, visual quality, and ocular surface status were graded and visual acuity charted.

RESULTS: Thirteen eyes of 11 patients were fitted; eight eyes with PRK, one eye with RK, and four eyes with PK previously performed. The mean follow up of the patients was six months. The visual acuity prior to lenses ranged from 6/12 to counting fingers, and the acuity with lenses ranged from 6/6 to 6/30. Eight of the 11 patients wore the lenses the whole day without problems; 3 patients discontinued lens wear due to discomfort or unsatisfactory vision.

CONCLUSIONS: The combination of super Dk/L and reverse geometry lenses facilitate lens wear and is associated with good visual acuity.