VISION MATTERS

College of Opticians of British Columbia Newsletter

October 2009

Public Announcement Regarding Cosmetic Contact Lenses

On Monday October 19, 2009 the College of Opticians of BC will be sending out a media advisory to warn consumers of the dangers posed to their eyesight by cosmetic contact lenses.  Halloween is fast approaching, and the popularity of cosmetic lenses as part of Halloween costumes appears to be on the rise. 

As you know, the use of cosmetic lenses can lead to serious eye health issues.  Ill-fitting lenses and improper care can lead to significant risks including allergic reaction, infection, swelling of the cornea and blindness, even with short term use –as little as 20 minutes’ wear for some sclera lenses. 

While we will be providing a media spokesperson to do interviews, the media advisory could generate calls from consumers or local reporters to your dispensary.  If you have any questions about this topic, below is some technical information for your review.  Our office would also be happy to help answer questions or to respond to media enquires that come your way.

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Cosmetic Lenses Technical Backgrounder

• While non-prescription contact lenses (cosmetic lenses) are regulated in some jurisdictions, such as the US, they remain unregulated in Canada.

• Cosmetic lenses are made of the following:

• HEMA - an original contact lens material that has been superseded by oxygen permeable materials.

• By laminating a pattern between untinted material.

• They are 14.50mm or 23.00mm diameter (larger then normal).
  

• The use of cosmetic lenses can lead to serious eye health issues:

• Combining an outdated, thick material with a large diameter severely reduces the ability of oxygen to reach the cornea through the tear fluid.

• The Lack of oxygen causes oedema (water retention) which leads to swelling of the cornea tissue.

• The lack of tears cause the lenses to adhere to the corneal tissue making removal difficult.

• The combination of swelling and a lack of fluid between the cosmetic lens and the cornea can lead to abrasion and possibly ulceration.

• Abraded and ulcerated tissue is susceptible to infection.

• Infection can quickly lead to blindness often within 24 hours.

• Removing a poorly hydrated lens that has adhered to the tissue can also cause abrasion or rip corneal tissue.
  

• What to do with a person in difficulty with any contact lens not provided by a regulated professional: 
• Opticians should refer the person to a contact lens registrant for evaluation, remediation or referral.

• Contact lens registrants should take comprehensive notes on the problem and submit case reports to the College of Opticians of British Columbia. Click here to download the form. 

Also in this issue:

• What Is An Optician?
• New College of Optometrists
• Legally Speaking
• Board Election 2009
• What It's Like To Be a COBC Board Member?
• What's the Difference Between the College and an Association?
• Coffee Anyone?
• Updated Continuing Education Program