Your first step is to choose from two basic types of lenses: soft and hard. After you've chosen hard or soft lenses, there are many categories of contact lens available, both in terms of how they accomplish vision correction and how often they need to be replaced:.
Daily wear contact lenses. This type of contact lens is usually the least expensive option. Daily wear contact lenses have to be taken out and disinfected every night and are replaced on a set schedule. The replacement time can vary widely by type and brand, from every two weeks to every three months.
Extended wear contact lenses. This type of contact lens is designed to be worn overnight, though they need to be removed at least once a week for cleaning and disinfection. However, many eye professionals do not encourage their use. When you sleep with your contact lenses in, you reduce the amount of oxygen to the eyes, making your eyes more vulnerable to infection — especially corneal infection. Compare the pros and cons of specific types of contact lenses.
Contact lenses are more versatile than ever before. Understand the pros and cons of common types of contact lenses — and the ground rules for preventing eye infections. Soft contact lenses are the most commonly prescribed contact lenses. They can be used to correct various vision problems, including:. Soft contact lenses are comfortable and easier to adapt to than rigid gas permeable lenses.
Soft contact lenses come in various types, such as:. Rigid gas-permeable lenses provide clear, crisp vision for people with most vision problems. These contact lenses might be helpful if you've tried soft contact lenses and have been unsatisfied with the results or if you have "dry eyes. Rigid gas permeable contact lenses are more durable than soft contact lenses. They're also more breathable, allowing more oxygen to the cornea.
These contact lenses must be removed for cleaning and disinfection at night, but some can be worn for a week or even 30 days.
It might take a few days or up to a few weeks to adjust to rigid gas permeable contact lenses. However, if your prescription doesn't change and you take care of your lenses, you can use the same pair for up to two to three years.
Before getting contact lenses, see your eye doctor for a thorough eye exam and fitting. In most cases, these will be soft lenses. Your doctor will schedule when you should replace them, since these lenses will eventually have buildup and wear out.
Daily disposable lenses are available for people who don't want to worry about cleaning and maintaining their lenses. You can toss these soft lenses at the end of the day, then pull out a new pair the next morning. Some contacts can be worn overnight because they allow enough oxygen to reach your eyes. Many doctors don't recommend this though, so check with your doctor to find out what's safe for you. Contact lenses are either soft or rigid. Your doctor will help you determine which type is right for you.
However, soft contacts are more commonly used. Also, the flexible hydrogel or silicone hydrogel materials allow better airflow to your eyes. Rigid contacts are gas permeable and they resist deposit buildup. These lenses provide sharper acuity than soft lenses do. A great plus is they're cheaper in the long-run because of their durability.
You need to take into consideration whether you have specific eye-related needs. Find out what they are before choosing your pair of lenses. For example, dry eyes or allergies may make it difficult for you to wear lenses. Daily disposable contacts are best in this case, but always consult a doctor before choosing. Another option is monovision , where one contact lens is prescribed to give you good distance vision and the contact lens for the other eye is prescribed for good near vision.
It may seem odd, but most people with presbyopia find monovision contacts provide clear, comfortable and natural-feeling vision.
Contact lenses don't eliminate your need for eyeglasses , so you need to consider the cost of contact lenses and how this affects your budget. When considering contact lens costs, don't forget to add the cost of contact lens solutions.
Eye allergies or dry eyes may affect the comfort of your contacts or limit your ability to wear contact lenses. If you have either of these conditions, discuss them with your eye doctor prior to your contact lens fitting.
Daily disposable contacts can help reduce contact lens-related allergy symptoms and there are specific brands of contact lenses for dry eyes that may help you wear contacts more comfortably. After considering all the above, it's time to visit your optometrist or ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye exam and contact lens consultation.
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