Clinical Report: Contact Lenses: Epi-On Expectations

Overview

Revise to specify recommendations for contact lens resumption times post-surgery.

Background

Epi-on corneal crosslinking is an emerging treatment for keratoconus, which aims to strengthen corneal tissue and prevent disease progression. Understanding the postoperative outcomes and appropriate contact lens fitting protocols is crucial for optimizing patient recovery and visual rehabilitation. As the FDA approaches the final review of this procedure, clinicians must be prepared to manage patient expectations effectively.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the source material.

Key Findings

• Stromal haze typically occurs within the first month post-epi-on CXL and resolves within 20 weeks.
• Cellular morphology changes include stromal edema and reduced keratocyte density, returning to baseline levels within 12 months.
• Contact lenses can be resumed as early as 1 month postoperatively for soft, rigid gas permeable, or hybrid lenses.
• Scleral lenses may be fitted or resumed as early as 2 weeks post-epi-on CXL, depending on patient technique and healing.
• Individual healing rates and visual rehabilitation urgency should guide clinical decisions regarding contact lens fitting.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should tailor contact lens fitting protocols based on individual patient healing rates following epi-on CXL. Early resumption of contact lens wear can enhance patient satisfaction and visual outcomes, provided that careful monitoring is maintained.

Conclusion

Epi-on corneal crosslinking presents unique postoperative considerations for contact lens fitting. By understanding the expected outcomes and adjusting fitting timelines, clinicians can improve patient care and visual rehabilitation.

References

1. Susan A. Resnick, OD, FAAO, Optometric Management, 2025 -- Contact Lenses: Epi-On Expectations
2. Glaukos Corporation, Glaukos Announces FDA Approval of Epioxa™, 2025 -- FDA Approval of Epioxa
3. Contact Lens Spectrum — 25th Anniversary Perspective
4. Contact Lens Spectrum — Contact Lenses and Vision: The Annual Report
5. Eyecare Business — Lenses: The Latest Developments
6. Glaukos Corporation - Glaukos Announces FDA Approval of Epioxa™
7. | OPTH | Dove Medical Press
8. Prospective Objective Analysis of Corneal Haze Following Customized Transepithelial PRK Without Mitomycin C Combined With Accelerated Corneal Cross-Linking Versus Corneal Cross-Linking Alone - PubMed