A Look at 25 Years of GSLS and Specialty Lenses
In this year’s keynote speech, Craig Norman and Patrick Caroline took a walk down memory lane to examine the last 2 and a half decades of both the Global Specialty Lens Symposium and specialty contact lenses.
By
Deborah Fisher
January 1, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: A Look at 25 Years of GSLS and Specialty Lenses
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Myopia control and pathologic corneal conditions requiring specialty contact lenses Key Mechanisms Orthokeratology for myopia control; modern scleral lens designs addressing corneal irregularities and complications Target Population Patients with myopia progression and those with pathologic corneas requiring specialty lenses Care Setting Specialty contact lens clinics and academic or professional conferences focused on specialty lenses
Key Highlights
GSLS evolved from the Global Orthokeratology Symposium to a comprehensive specialty lens meeting by 2009. Orthokeratology research at GSLS demonstrated significant impact on axial eye growth, sparking myopia control interest. Modern scleral lens innovations including toric haptics, multifocal and quadrant-specific designs were introduced at GSLS. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Utilize axial length measurements to assess orthokeratology effects on myopia control. Employ modern scleral lens fitting techniques including scleral shape assessment. Management
Incorporate orthokeratology lenses as a myopia control strategy based on evidence from prospective studies. Use advanced scleral lens designs to manage pathologic corneas effectively. Monitoring & Follow-up
Monitor for complications such as midday fogging, conjunctival prolapse, corneal edema, and intraocular pressure changes in scleral lens wearers. Risks
Be vigilant for unique complications associated with scleral lenses including corneal edema and increased intraocular pressure. Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with progressive myopia and those with corneal irregularities requiring specialty lenses
Orthokeratology has demonstrated axial length control; scleral lenses have evolved to address complex corneal conditions and associated complications.
Clinical Best Practices
Engage in continuous education and collaboration through specialty lens symposia like GSLS to stay updated on evolving lens technologies. Address and manage scleral lens complications proactively to optimize patient outcomes. Incorporate evidence-based myopia control strategies including orthokeratology and adjunctive therapies. References
