Kate Gifford

Speaker

Kate Gifford
PhD, BAppSc(Optom)Hons, GradCertOcTher, FBCLA, FIACLE, FCCLSA, FAAO, GAICD
Clinical Optometrist - Gerry & Johnson Optometrists
Visiting Research Fellow - Queensland University of Technology (QUT) School of Optometry and Vision Science

Date and Time

Wednesday May 8, 2019
11:00 - 12:00 pm

Location

100 Minor Addition
Berkeley, CA

Kate Gifford's Abstract

Contact lens optics and binocular vision in childhood myopia

A globally growing prevalence of myopia has led to increasing investigation and development of optical corrections which slow its progression. Overnight orthokeratology (OK, also known as corneal reshaping) and multifocal soft contact lenses (MFSCLs) show the most consistent results for reducing axial and refractive progression in childhood myopia, by around 50%, with only some understanding of the mechanism. The research presented in this lecture firstly examined binocular vision and focussing in OK wear; outcomes were consistent with lower myopia progression risk and improved visual comfort compared to standard spectacles and soft contact lenses. The optical mechanism for these changes are proposed as a whole-eye image shell theory, encompassing currently held theories which isolate either the central or peripheral optical changes of the myopic eye. Finally, the accommodative response of the eye to various MFSCL designs is investigated, leading into pilot work on novel lens designs towards achieving the optimum optical profile for the individual myope, with the ultimate goal of ensuring visual comfort and acceptance, and improving myopia control efficacy.