What can excessive prism thickness lead to in an eye?

Excessive prism thickness can lead to corneal edema in the inferior region of the eye. When excessive prism is present, it can create an imbalance in the pressure exerted on the cornea, which in turn can result in the accumulation of fluid within the corneal tissue. This condition is characterized by swelling and distortion of the cornea, affecting vision and potentially leading to discomfort.

Corneal edema due to excessive prism thickness often arises from improperly fitted contact lenses or glasses that exert unusual forces on the eye's surface. The integrity of the cornea is essential for clear vision, and any condition that disrupts this can impair visual performance as well as the health of the cornea itself.

Understanding the relationship between prism thickness and corneal health is critical in contact lens fitting and management. Proper assessment and fitting practices are vital to prevent complications such as corneal edema.