With the advancements in technology and the myriad of contact lens types available today, it can seem overwhelming to make a choice. Understanding and exploring the different options can help your determine which contact lenses are right for you.
Among the soft contact lenses, daily disposable lenses are gaining popularity. These contact lenses are worn once and discarded at the end of the day. They provide the utmost convenience as they eliminate the need for cleaning and storing. They also reduce the risk of infection since a fresh pair is used every day.
Another type of daily wear lens is the extended wear lens. These can be worn overnight, ranging from seven to thirty days, depending on the brand and your eye doctor's recommendation. They offer the benefit of continuous vision correction without the hassle of removal and insertion daily. However, they pose a higher risk of eye infections and require regular check-ups to monitor eye health.
Specialty contact lenses are custom-made lenses designed for specific eye conditions that cannot be corrected by standard lenses. They include scleral lenses, ortho-k, and hybrid lenses, among others.
Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas permeable lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of the eye, the sclera. They're ideal for conditions like keratoconus, post-surgical eyes, and severe dry eye syndrome.
Orthokeratology or Ortho-K lenses are specially designed rigid lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. They correct refractive errors, allowing clear vision during the day without the need for any visual aids. Not only does Ortho-K correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but it also slows down the progression of myopia in children, making it a valuable tool in myopia control.
With so many contact lens types to choose from, the role of your eye doctor is crucial in determining the right one for you. Your doctor will evaluate your eye health, lifestyle, and vision needs to recommend the most suitable option. They'll guide you through the fitting process, teach you how to care for your lenses, and monitor your adaptation to ensure your eyes remain healthy.
The perfect contact lens should provide clear vision, comfort, and fit your lifestyle. It's a partnership between you and your eye doctor to find that perfect lens.
From daily disposables to specialty lenses, there's a lens for every need and lifestyle. The key lies in understanding these contact lens types and working with your eye doctor to find the one that's right for you.
To learn more on contact lens types and to determine which one is right for you, consult with our professionals at The Center for Eye Care and Optical in our West Islip, New York office. We provide quality eye care services and products for the entire family. Please call (631) 825-7725 to schedule an appointment today.