As I often do, I am going to use my first column of the new year for some GP lens resolutions. There are always things that we can do to improve our use and understanding of these awesome vision correction devices.

Resolution 1

In 2020, I will fit more translating bifocal contact lenses. In 2017, I resolved to fit more GP multifocals. I managed to do that over the last few years, but most cases were aspheric simultaneous-vision designs. Translating contact lenses are great for the right patients (e.g., a desire for crisper optics, loose upper lid that inhibits lid attachment, lower lid at the limbus) but can be a challenge to fit. This year, I’m going to be on the lookout for perfect candidates for these lenses.

Resolution 2

In 2020, I will fit more adults in orthokeratology (ortho-k). As our fitting of kids for myopia control has expanded, I have unfortunately fallen out of my habit of offering this great contact lens option to adults. Ortho-k provides visual freedom for patients who want to avoid daytime glasses and contact lenses, and I have found it to be especially good for adults who have dry eye symptoms only with soft lenses.

Resolution 3

In 2020, I will utilize scleral topography more in lens design. Scleral topography is amazing, and I highly recommend this technology. I love the amount of information that is provided by our clinic’s scleral topographer about a patient’s scleral shape. It is especially useful for determining whether a toric scleral zone is needed, how much toricity to use, and to estimate tear film thickness. On busy clinic days, I sometimes fall into old habits and skip doing this and just start with diagnostic fitting; this year, I resolve to break this habit.

Resolution 4

In 2020, I will recommend more corneal GP lenses as a first option. GP lenses can be a fantastic choice for many first-time lens wearers, especially those patients who have higher amounts of astigmatism. Although soft lens options have greatly improved, GP lenses are still usually superior in their ability to provide consistent, stable correction. Our role as contact lens practitioners is to explain the different options and to help patients make the best choice for their needs; of course, this includes corneal GPs.

Resolution 5

In 2020, I will be more active on social media related to contact lenses. Yes, this is my third time with this resolution; hopefully, this will be my year! There are so many active groups and practitioners devoted to sharing information with colleagues and patients about the benefits of corneal and scleral contact lenses. Let’s all get out there and spread the good word about GP lenses.

Best Wishes

I hope that 2020 is a great year for both you and your GP contact lens patients. CLS