What primarily causes dimple veiling on the cornea?

Dimple veiling on the cornea is primarily caused by air bubbles trapped in the contact lens. When a contact lens is fitted on the eye, it must create a smooth and even surface for tears to flow beneath it. However, if there are small air bubbles that become trapped between the lens and the cornea, they can create localized disruptions in the tear film. This leads to the appearance of small dimple-like indentations on the surface of the cornea, which is termed dimple veiling.

Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for contact lens fitters and wearers alike, as it can indicate issues with lens application or compatibility. In contrast, lens dehydration may lead to other complications, such as discomfort or reduced oxygen transmission, but it does not directly create the characteristic dimple formations. Allergic reactions could result in other symptoms such as redness and itching, but they do not typically cause dimple veiling. Improper lens fit could contribute to discomfort or other corneal surface irregularities, yet it is specifically the presence of trapped air bubbles that is most directly responsible for this particular corneal condition.