Today’s contact lens correct myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and even presbyopia. Millions of Americans wear contact lenses and with the increasing number of lens option, even people who were told in the past that they could not wear contacts, may now be eligible. Contact lenses have many advantages over glasses, but all lenses should correct vision, fit properly and comfortably, and meet a person’s lifestyle needs.
Many contact lenses options are available.
Soft Daily Wear Contact Lenses
Soft Daily Wear Contact Lenses are made of soft, water containing flexible plastics called hydrogels that allow oxygen to pass to the cornea to better maintain its health and clarity. Because they are thin and flexible, soft contact lenses are easier to adapt to and more comfortable than rigid gas permeable contact lenses.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses
Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses (RGP’s) are more durable, more resistant to deposit buildup and generally provide clearer, crisper vision than soft lenses. RGP’s tend to be less expensive over time because they last longer than soft lenses. They are easier to handle and less likely to tear but are not as comfortable as soft lenses and may take longer to adapt to.
Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
Contact lenses that correct the accompanying visual disturbances caused by astigmatism are called Toric lenses. Toric lenses are available in both soft and rigid gas permeable lenses. To obtain precise vision, they must be expertly fitted.
Extended Wear Contact Lenses
Some extended wear contact lenses can be worn overnight from six nights up to 30 days. Most extended wear lenses are soft, with a few approved rigid gas permeable extended wear lenses. How long someone is able to wear the contact lenses depends on the lens type and the specific recommendations of the eye care provider. Generally, the eyes must rest without lenses at least one night following each scheduled removal.
Disposable or Planned Replacement Contact Lenses
When using disposable or planned replacement contacts, the patient wears the lenses for a specified amount of time, then discards the lenses, and replaces them with fresh ones. There is the less risk of buildup on the lens and of getting eye infections. Disposable and planned replacement contact lenses are the most popular type of lenses prescribed today. They are healthier for the eye than traditional contact lenses, are more comfortable for the wearer, and are available for daily or extended wear. Many lens wearers use daily disposable contacts for convenience and to negate the need to buy solutions and cleaners. The cost of daily contacts has also come down, making them much more affordable.
Specialty Contact Lenses
Damiano Eye Consultants offer many types of specialty contact lenses.
Using the latest contact lens technology, our trained and experienced specialists are certified in fitting patients who have challenging corneal issues such as keratoconus, post-corneal transplant, and post-refractive surgery. After evaluating your condition and lifestyle needs, we will recommend one of the many available contact lenses including rigid gas permeable, custom soft, semi-scleral and hybrid lenses. We even fit Synergeyes contact lenses, the premier hybrid soft/gas permeable lens which are designed to correct astigmatism and corneal irregularities. Contact our office for more information or to schedule an appointment with a contact lens specialist.
Contact lenses can also be ordered by contacting our office.