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GP Insights:
GP Lenses and Cataract Surgery

Corneal GP lens wearers may be particularly challenging to guide through this process.

By: Roxanna Potter, OD
Contact Lens Spectrum September 1, 2026 Vol 41, Issue September-October 2026 Page(s): 8

Clinical Report: GP Lenses and Cataract Surgery

Overview

Corneal GP lens wearers face unique challenges during cataract surgery, particularly regarding corneal molding and intraocular lens (IOL) calculations. Accurate preoperative data collection is critical, necessitating a discontinuation of contact lens wear prior to evaluation to allow for corneal stability.

Background

Cataract surgery is a common procedure, and most specialty lens wearers will require it at some point. Understanding the specific needs of corneal GP lens wearers is essential. The complexities involved in IOL calculations and corneal stability during the healing process highlight the importance of careful preoperative planning.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the source.

Key Findings

  • Corneal molding can affect IOL calculations, requiring a contact lens washout period of 4 to 16 weeks.
  • Instruments that do not account for posterior corneal abnormalities may lead to inaccurate corneal power assumptions.
  • Monofocal IOLs are recommended for patients with irregular corneas.
  • Toric IOLs may be suitable for mild to moderate corneal disease but are not recommended for severe keratoconus.
  • Postoperative recovery may be prolonged for GP lens wearers.

Clinical Implications

Comanaging optometrists should be aware of the extended time required for corneal stability in GP lens wearers before cataract surgery.

Conclusion

Cataract surgery in GP lens wearers requires tailored preoperative and postoperative strategies to address the unique challenges they present.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Wang X, McCulley JP, et al, CLAO J, 2002 -- Time to resolution of contact lens-induced corneal warpage prior to refractive surgery
  2. Tsai PS, Dowidar A, et al, J Cataract Refract Surg, 2004 -- Predicting time to refractive stability after discontinuation of rigid contact lens wear
  3. Singh C, Joshi VP, Semin Ophthalmol, 2023 -- Cataract surgery in Keratoconus revisited
  4. Gonzalez-Salinas R, Franco JJ, et al, J Cataract Refract Surg, 2023 -- Cataract surgery in patients with underlying keratoconus
  5. Ling JYM, Qiao G, et al, J Refract Surg, 2023 -- Visual Outcomes of Cataract Surgery in Patients With Keratoconus
  6. Sarnicola C, Sarnicola E, et al, Curr Opin Ophthalmol, 2026 -- Cataract surgery in keratoconus: current challenges and future directions
  7. Contact Lens Spectrum — GP Insights
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  11. Cataract Surgery Preparation In RGP Contact Lens User - EyeWiki
  12. ESCRS Recommendations for Cataract Surgery
  13. Corneal and Intraocular Pressure Responses to Scleral Lens Wear: A Meta-Analysis - PMC