Design of a smart contact lens for controlled retinal lighting in red light therapy

Current red-light therapy devices lack control over light distribution on the retina, limiting their evaluation and use while presenting potential risks. We designed a scleral lens embedding 625 nm LEDs strategically placed to provide wide-angle retinal illumination while leaving the pupil free. Two configurations were tested: one with a metalized inner part to reflect light from the LEDs towards the retina and another with guiding micro-optics for better efficiency. Experimental irradiance maps obtained with both configurations demonstrate retinal illumination over 130°. We also discuss how this design could meet ophthalmologic standards and improve red-light therapy for myopia control.