Contact lenses offer many benefits, including clear, comfortable vision and greater freedom for active lifestyles. They provide a wider field of view than glasses, do not fog or obstruct peripheral vision, and are available in options to correct a wide range of visual needs. However, wearing contact lenses also comes with responsibilities. Proper hygiene, correct wear schedules, and routine replacement are essential to reduce the risk of eye irritation, infection, or more serious complications. Sleeping in lenses or improper cleaning can significantly increase these risks.
Annual contact lens evaluations are important to ensure lenses continue to fit properly and that your eyes remain healthy. Vision and eye health can change over time, so it is essential to discuss any symptoms, concerns, or lifestyle changes with your eye care provider to determine the safest and most effective contact lens option for you.
There are many different contact lenses to choose from, including daily disposable lenses, toric lenses that correct astigmatism, and multifocal lenses.
Daily Disposable Lenses
Daily disposable contact lenses are single-use lenses designed to be worn once and discarded at the end of the day. They offer a convenient, hygienic option that eliminates the need for cleaning or storage solutions, reducing the risk of irritation and infection. With a fresh lens every day, patients often experience improved comfort, clearer vision, and greater ease of use—making daily disposables an excellent choice for both new and experienced contact lens wearers. These lenses are available in a wide array of prescriptions, including toric and multifocal lenses.
Toric lenses
Toric contact lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism by providing stable, consistent vision throughout the day. Their unique shape allows the lens to remain properly aligned on the eye, reducing blur and distortion. Toric lenses offer clear, comfortable vision and are available in a variety of materials and replacement schedules to meet individual visual needs and lifestyles.
Multifocal Contact Lenses
Multifocal contact lenses are designed to correct presbyopia by providing clear vision at near, intermediate, and distance ranges. They allow the eyes to transition smoothly between focal points, reducing the need for reading glasses. Multifocal lenses offer a convenient, comfortable option for patients seeking variable vision correction throughout the day.
Monthly Soft Contact Lenses
Monthly contact lenses are designed to be worn daily and replaced once a month with proper cleaning and care. They offer a balance of comfort, durability, and cost-effectiveness, making them a popular choice for many patients. Available in a wide range of prescriptions, monthly lenses provide reliable vision correction while allowing flexibility for various visual needs and lifestyles. We recommend NEVER sleeping in contact lenses.
Hard Contact Lenses (RGPs)
Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses are durable lenses made from oxygen-permeable materials that provide crisp, stable vision. They maintain their shape on the eye, making them especially effective for correcting astigmatism and certain corneal conditions, like keratoconus. RGP lenses offer excellent visual clarity, long-term eye health benefits, and a cost-effective option due to their durability and longevity. These lenses require a specialty contact lens fitting option due to their custom fit.
Contact Lens Hygiene
Proper contact lens hygiene is essential for maintaining eye health and clear, comfortable vision. Because contact lenses sit directly on the surface of the eye, they must be handled and cared for correctly to prevent irritation and infection.
Poor hygiene—such as improper cleaning, wearing lenses longer than recommended, or sleeping in contact lenses—can significantly increase the risk of eye infections, corneal inflammation, and vision-threatening complications. Contact lenses should never be slept in due to increased risk of corneal ulcers. Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses, use only approved cleaning solutions, and follow the recommended replacement schedule.
Regular contact lens evaluations are also important to ensure continued eye health and proper lens fit. If you experience redness, pain, blurred vision, or discharge, remove your lenses immediately and contact your eye care provider. Consistent hygiene and professional guidance are key to safe and successful contact lens wear.