Corneal Onlay

The Corneal Onlay represents a new generation of vision correction, capable of delivering permanent, high quality vision to the billions of people experiencing some of the most common eye conditions (refractive errors). It stands apart from existing refractive correction products because of its ability to deliver the convenience of permanent, high quality vision while also being reversible.

This unique quality is achieved through a breakthrough implantable lens, specifically designed to allow the innovative placement of the lens beneath the outer surface of the eye (epithelium). The lens resembles a smaller, thinner contact lens and possesses the same soft and flexible nature. It is highly compatible with the eye based on a five year study. The Onlay procedure is quick, non-invasive and reversible, clearly distinguishing it from current refractive surgery options.

The potential value of the Corneal Onlay is immense, as the market for refractive error correction is huge and the world’s population continues to grow and age. In addition, an increase in the frequency and duration of activities requiring the eye to focus on close objects (computer work, visual entertainment and education), means the prevalence of eye conditions will continue to escalate.

Recent estimates indicate that approximately 1.5 billion people have hyperopia (far-sightedness). The number of people with myopia (short-sightedness) is predicted to grow from 1.6 billion people currently to an astonishing 2.5 billion by 2020. Over 1 billion people now have presbyopia (a reduced ability to focus that happens to us all as we age). In 2008, the refractive vision correction market was valued at over US $3 billion.

The laser technique LASIK, currently dominates the market for the surgical correction of refractive errors. During laser surgery the eye is permanently altered by the removal of corneal tissue. In contrast, the revolutionary Corneal Onlay procedure is less invasive, requires no tissue removal and is reversible.

The Onlay technique involves removal of the outer surface of the eye (epithelium) allowing the lens to be placed on the inner corneal surface. The epithelium is then grown over the lens allowing it to rest permanently and comfortably. The unique material of the Corneal Onlay has been developed to ensure excellent biocompatibility with the eye, and to provide vision correction while seamlessly integrating with the normal functioning of the eye.

The Corneal Onlay technology is now being commercialised by the company Adventus Technology.