If you’ve been managing keratoconus with contact lenses and are now considering Intacs, it’s natural to wonder how this treatment might change your routine. You may be asking yourself if you’ll still be able to wear contacts after undergoing the procedure. Understanding what to expect can help you make an informed decision that supports your vision and lifestyle.
What Are Intacs?
Intacs are tiny, curved implants that are carefully inserted into the cornea. They’re designed to gently reshape your cornea and flatten its surface, which may help improve vision in those with mild to moderate keratoconus. This minimally invasive procedure is often considered when glasses or contact lenses no longer offer sufficient clarity, but you may not be ready or eligible for a corneal transplant.
Intacs typically aim to stabilize the cornea, potentially improving how contact lenses fit. However, they don’t cure keratoconus or eliminate the need for vision correction altogether. Instead, they may offer you a better platform for wearing contacts or reduce your dependence on them.
Can You Still Wear Contact Lenses After Intacs?
In many cases, you may still wear contact lenses after getting Intacs. In fact, some patients find that contact lenses feel more comfortable and stay in place better after the cornea is reshaped. Since Intacs help reduce the steepness of the cornea, specialty lenses — such as rigid gas permeable or scleral lenses — may fit more securely and offer improved visual clarity.
That said, you should expect to work closely with your eye care provider after the procedure. It’s possible that your current lenses may no longer fit the same way, and you might need a new fitting or prescription. This adjustment period is common and part of the process as your eyes adapt.
How Soon Can You Resume Wearing Contacts?
The timeline for returning to contact lenses varies from person to person. Some people may resume lens wear within a few weeks, while others might need a bit more time, depending on how their eyes heal and respond to the procedure. Your eye care provider will monitor your progress and guide you on when it’s safe to start wearing them again.
It’s essential to follow post-operative care instructions and attend all follow-up appointments. This helps ensure proper healing and increases the chances of achieving optimal results from both the Intacs and your contact lenses.
Should You Expect Better Vision Without Lenses?
While Intacs may improve your unaided vision, they aren’t designed to eliminate the need for glasses or contacts entirely. Many people still rely on some form of vision correction after the procedure, although the quality of vision and comfort level may be significantly enhanced. The goal is to make vision correction more manageable and effective — not necessarily to replace it.
If you’ve struggled with lens discomfort or poor fit due to advanced keratoconus, Intacs might make it easier to tolerate contacts again. However, outcomes can vary, and it’s important to maintain realistic expectations.
Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Vision
If you’re considering Intacs and want to know how they may fit into your lifestyle with contact lenses, the next step is a personalized consultation. Dr. Brian in Los Angeles can help evaluate whether this procedure is right for your eyes and walk you through the possibilities based on your unique condition.
Take control of your vision journey today. Call 1-310-860-1900, text 424-245-0171, or email info@boxerwachler.com to get started.
To schedule a free Q & A session with Dr. Brian’s staff to discuss your Keratoconus and answer your questions, please click here: https://info.boxerwachler.com/complimentary-keratoconus-qa-session.
