Contact lenses are small, lightweight, clear discs placed onto the eyes’ corneas to improve vision. Depending on the wearer’s needs, they can be therapeutic, cosmetic, or corrective visual devices. Wearers prefer them to eyeglasses because of their practicality and aesthetic quality – you can wear them when playing sports, they allow a wider field of vision, and they don’t steam up. When you see a contact lens specialist edgewater about getting contact lenses, they will usually walk you through the available types. Here is what you can expect to learn:
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Soft Contact Lenses
As the name suggests, soft contact lenses are made from soft materials, particularly flexible plastics like silicone-hydrogel, that make it possible for oxygen to reach your cornea. Their construction makes them very comfortable and easier to adjust than rigid lenses. Initially designed to last about 12 months, soft contact lenses have since been upgraded to last longer and offer more comfort.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses
Rigid contact lenses or rigid gas-permeable lenses are the rigid equivalents of soft lenses. They are made from durable materials designed to last longer and be more resistant to regular handling and tear. Because of this, they are also more cost-effective in the long run, less prone to deposit buildup, and often allow you to see clearer. However, rigid lenses may not be very comfortable in the beginning. Some patients take several weeks to get used to them.
Disposable Contact Lenses
Disposable contact lenses are designed to be won on a replacement schedule. While this technically means you should use them once and dispose of them, this schedule can differ. You should wear a new pair of daily disposable contact lenses every day, for instance. Other lenses are extended wear and can be worn for several days before needing to be disposed of. Your provider will usually explain the durations and removal processes when prescribing disposable contact lenses.
Extended Wear Contact Lenses
Unlike disposable contact lenses, extended lenses can be worn overnight or continuously for six to thirty days. They are a subtype of soft contact lenses constructed from flexible plastic to allow maximum corneal aeration. Some samples are even approved for wearing overnight for between one to six nights so you can sleep in your lenses. However, before sleeping in these lenses, you should see your doctor for a tolerance test. Rest between lens-wearing sessions is important to your vision.
Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are the last type of contact lens your provider may discuss with you during your test. These increasingly popular vision aids are designed and manufactured with the help of computer design to achieve maximum comfort. While they can be prescribed to anyone, scleral lenses are best suited to patients with severe astigmatism, dry eye, and corneal degeneration or deformity.
Get a Contact Lens Exam Today
If you find eyeglasses cumbersome, restrictive, or unattractive, you should consider contact lenses. Your provider will perform a test to determine which type of lens works best for your visual needs and lifestyle and plan a fitting. You can also take advantage of this appointment to ask questions about contact lens wear, removal, and maintenance so you can make the best of your prescription. To get started, simply contact a contact lens specialist today and schedule an appointment.
