So, you’re interested in contact lenses for yourself or your children? They can be an excellent investment for people who want discrete vision correction. Most people never know when you’re wearing contacts, and there are even options that change the appearance of your eyes as well.
Today, there are several different types of contact lenses on the market. But how do you know which is right for you?
Choosing The Right Contact Lens For You
1 – Rigid Gas Permeable
RGP, or “hard” contact lenses, are the oldest style of contact lens still in use. These carry with them many of the drawbacks associated with contact lenses: They’re a bit less comfortable to wear, they have to be taken out at night, and they have to be cleaned daily.
There are two main benefits to RGPs: First, they work with any sort of eye or vision problem. Second, because of their rigidity, they can in some cases prevent progressive vision problems by encouraging the eyeball to hold its shape.
2 – Soft Contacts
Soft lenses conform to the shape of your eye, making them more comfortable and easier to wear for extended periods. Some soft lenses can be worn for up to a week straight, even while asleep, without being removed. Their shape-changing comfort, however, means they cannot slow vision loss like RGPs can.
These are a good “all around” option, especially for children who may have trouble dealing with RGPs.
3 – Disposable Contacts
Disposable lenses are almost always “soft” lenses. These are the most expensive option on the market for eye wear – costing about $1-$2 per day – but also offer the most convenience.
These are excellent for people who only occasionally wear contacts, such as for formal appearances. However, be careful. Because disposables are meant to be thrown out, their edges wear down quickly and can become dangerously sharp.
4 – Bi- or Tri-Focals
If you need multiple lenses, you can still get contacts! Depending on your needs, optometrists have several options. You could get contacts with the traditional “over / under” style of lens. Or, in special cases, a patient might get two different lenses, creating a “far-sighted eye” and a “near-sighted eye” that, together, combine into a single clear image in their brain. (With a little adjustment.)
There are plenty of options! Talk to your Phoenix Optometrist for more information on what contacts might be right for you.
