Are Specialty Contact Lenses Right for You?

Most people think that all contact lenses are the same since they have a similar design and shape. In truth, there are many different types of contact lenses. Thus, you can always find a variety to suit your needs. This is especially important if you require specialty contact lenses.

What Are Specialty Contact Lenses?

These are specially designed lenses meant for people with a corneal condition or other eye problem that makes regular contact lenses unsuitable. Conventional contact lenses sit on the surface of the eye and cover the cornea, ensuring they fit comfortably and correctly.

However, some people do not have perfectly shaped corneas. This makes regular contact lenses unsuitable for them. Also, certain eye conditions such as dry eye can make it difficult to wear conventional lenses. Fortunately, various types of specialty lenses make it possible for people with these eye problems to enjoy clear vision without eyeglasses.

Do You Need Specialty Contact Lenses?

Many people prefer contact lenses over eyeglasses due to their comfort and convenience. But if you have an eye condition that prevents you from using off-the-shelf lenses, specialty lenses may be a good alternative. In some cases, specialty lenses can help treat certain disorders.

Specialty contact lenses may be right for you if you have a corneal irregularity and struggle with regular contact lenses. Some of the eye disorders that can make specialty lenses right for you include:
 

• Keratoconus.
   

• Astigmatism.
   

• Dry eyes.
   

• Giant papillary conjunctivitis.
   

• Issues after refractive surgery.
   

• Presbyopia.
   

• Unusually large or small eyes.

Types of Specialty Contact Lenses

Terms such as standard contact lenses or conventional contact lenses can be quite confusing. Contact lenses need to fit the patient’s eyes perfectly. However, you need to understand that every person’s eye is slightly different from other people’s eyes. Thus, you need to get contact lenses that suit the shape of your eyes.

Specialty contact lenses are particularly useful in cases where the patient’s needs are more difficult than usual. Some of the most common specialty lenses include:

Gas Permeable Contact Lenses

This type of contact lens is a viable option for people who suffer from dry eyes. The material used to make this type of lens allows enough oxygen to pass through them. This will keep the eyes more comfortable, in addition to preventing them from drying out quickly. Furthermore, their rigidity can help the cornea maintain its shape, which can be helpful with some corneal abnormalities.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses vault over the surface of the eye, leaving a gap between the lens and the cornea. They have a larger diameter than regular contact lenses. Scleral lenses are a practical solution for managing problems that can make conventional contact lenses impossible or impractical. If you have surgical scarring or keratoconus, scleral lenses may be right for you.

Limbal Fit Lenses

This type of specialty contact lens falls between scleral and gas permeable varieties in terms of their size. They feel more comfortable and stable on the surface of the eye due to their larger diameter.

Ortho-k Contact Lenses

If you do not like wearing contact lenses all the time, orthokeratology lenses may be right for you. You only need to wear them while you sleep. Your eyes’ natural tear film and the shape of the orthokeratology lenses will gently reshape your corneas while you sleep. Once you remove them in the morning, you will have clearer vision without using daytime contact lenses.

To learn more about specialty contact lenses, visit Blue Hills Eye Associates at our office in Braintree, Massachusetts. You can call (781) 794-2200 today to schedule an appointment.