Contact lenses have come a long way over the years. There are many types of contact lenses you can choose from to optimize your vision. The following are descriptions of different types of lenses and some general upkeep tips:
Soft or Rigid?
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Soft lenses
Soft contact lenses are the most popular option. Typically made of gel-like, water containing plastics called hydrogels. Soft lenses have good airflow and allow your eyes to oxygenate effectively.
Wearing soft lenses cause little to no discomfort, even in the very first hours of use. Soft lenses adapt to your frequency of use, they can be daily, weekly, or monthly. The use of monthly and bi-monthly lenses, however, requires some upkeep to maintain hydration and cleanliness.
Hydrogen silicone lenses are a type of soft lenses that are less prone to dehydration because of their low water content. They can be worn for 24 hours without being removed.
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Rigid lenses
Rigid or hard contact lenses are made from plastics that allow oxygen permeation. This type of lens takes longer to get used to than soft lenses, but they can be worn for longer.
Rigid lenses are more expensive, but their renewal is much less frequent. They are very suitable for people with astigmatism or athletes who don’t want their contacts to fall out during activity.
Monthly or Daily?
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Monthly Lenses
Monthly lenses are the most developed type of contact lens today. The wearer receives twelve pairs, which allows them to constantly have lenses in perfect condition, as well as reserve lenses. Maintenance is very simple, only one cleaning solution is needed.
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Daily Lenses
Resolutely the most modern, they are for singular use. Sterile and new every morning, they’re a very convenient option for those not interested in maintenance. Very practical for casual wearer, they are also essential in case of allergy to cleaning solutions.
How To Choose
Don’t be overwhelmed by all the options before you! It’s simple for your eye doctor to determine which contact lens is right for you. Vision tests are first and foremost to find the prescription type of the lens you need. Next, you need to determine what lens type adheres to your eyes’ metabolic preferences. This is the purpose of the eye tests during your comprehensive eye exam, to map out the characteristics of your eye and calibrate glasses and contact lenses to your needs.
Take care of your lenses
Lenses are very convenient but require some upkeep to ensure your eye health.
When handling your lenses, be careful not to scratch them: grasp them with your fingertip and avoid contact with the fingernail. In the before bed, remove the lenses and rinse them out, or leave them in a cleaning solution. Never let your lenses dry out or get dirty and avoid using tap water to clean them. In case of swelling, red eye, pain, or any unusual irritation, consult an ophthalmologist promptly.
Conclusion
Contact lenses are the most convenient option for eyesight correction. There are many options for those looking for contacts, so you’re never limited to lenses that don’t meet your needs. Just remember to follow the upkeep procedures for your lenses to keep your eyes healthy.
Questions? Contact us.