Which Contact Lens Option Is Right for Me?
Eyeglasses help many people with vision problems see clearly but with a limited field of vision. Unlike eyeglasses, contact lenses move with the eyes, providing clearer vision wherever the eyes look.
There are so many different types of contact lenses available now that many individuals considering contacts are left wondering, “which contact lens option is right for me?” Servicing La Jolla, CA, Carmel Valley, CA, San Diego, CA, Dr. Gordon Wong and Dr. Wildon Wong assist patients in finding the right contact lenses for their needs. To find out which contacts are right for you, we welcome you to schedule a consultation.
Types of Contact Lenses
There are many types of contact lenses which fit under two categories: soft lenses or hard lenses. Each type of lens provides unique benefits to suit the specific needs of each contact lens wearer.
The following are some popular contact lens options you may want to consider.
Soft Lenses
Soft lenses can correct many vision problems, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), presbyopia (age-related loss of close-up vision), and astigmatism. Because these lenses are soft, many people find they’re comfortable and easy to adjust to wearing.
There are many soft lens options, such as:
- Disposable lenses: Disposable lens options include lenses that are replaced daily.
- Continuous wear lenses: Continuous wear contacts do not need to be removed daily and can be worn to bed.
- Progressive lenses: Progressive lenses can take the place of bifocals or reading glasses for people with presbyopia.
- Toric lenses: Toric lenses provide vision correction for astigmatism.
- Cosmetic lenses: Cosmetic lenses change the color of the eyes.
Hard Lenses
Hard lenses are also called rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. These lenses are more durable than soft lenses and can correct most vision problems caused by refractive errors. They also allow more oxygen to reach the eye than soft lenses.
Hard lenses typically require daily removal and disinfection but extended wear RGP lenses are available.
Choosing the Right Contact Lens for Your Needs
Because there are so many contact lens options, choosing the right option for your needs may seem overwhelming.
Undergoing a contact lens eye exam is an important step in determining which contact lens options will work for your needs. The right option will depend on your vision needs and your preferences.
Here are some other factors to consider when choosing contact lenses.
How Often Are You Willing to Clean Your Contacts?
Contacts must be kept clean and properly cared for in order to prevent eye infections and other complications.
Those who do not want to clean contacts daily may want to consider single use, disposable options or extended wear options.
How Frequently Do You Plan to Wear Contacts?
Some people only want to wear contacts for special occasions while others wear them daily. If wearing contacts occasionally, soft lens options are generally best as these are easily adapted to. Hard lenses can take some time to adjust to so it is recommended that they are worn daily.
Find Out Which Contact Lens Option Is Right for You
If you are interested in contact lenses and would like to find out which option is right for you, call (858) 454-4699 to schedule an exam at GW Eye Associates.