UK Keratoconus Self-Help and Support Association

Hi All,

I have had KC for probably around 14yrs now and its predominantly in my left eye and my right eye compensates. Glasses no longer correct it, however it has been stable with no progression for some years now. I was under Luton & Dunstable for a short while but they discharged me as they kept sending me unsuitable appointments and I would have to change them - i think i rang 3x to change one but it still never went through. Ive tried RGPs multiple times with no success as I have very sensitive eyes and the more i tried to put them in the worse they got.

Basically I was wondering as my KC is stable whether Toric lenses would help correct my vision? I have a eye test booked but I was hoping for some advice before I go in.

Thank you!

Hi DCSales,

There are lots of different types of contact lenses for keratoconus. Toric lenses are designed for regular astigmatism, some of these lenses are soft but they can also be RGPs.

Mild keratoconus can often be corrected with glasses or ordinary contact lenses. As keratoconus progresses people are more likely to be fitted with specialist contact lenses. Possibly specialist soft lenses designed for KC, or corneal RGPs. If that doesn't work there are also piggy back lenses where a soft lens is worn underneath the corneal RGP. There are also larger lenses such as the hybrid lenses with a hard centre and a soft skirt, or semi scleral lenses.

When you have your eye test this will be to examine the health of your eyes and to issue a prescription for glasses. Although glasses no longer fully correct your eyesight they may of some use to you. However finding the best prescription for glasses can take time and it would probably be worth mentioning this to the optician before the appointment as they might wish to give you a longer appointment. Contact lenses are sometimes fitted at a separate appointment as they normally need a valid eye test before contact lenses are fitted. Soft toric lenses may work for you, but you will have to see what they suggest, because only they can test your eyes and work out what should work for you.

Lia