We have discussed some of the more premier contact lens options, including scleral lenses and GP lenses for myopia control.  These specialty lenses are excellent options for eye care providers and patients alike, but it is important not to overlook one of the most popular options for corrective lenses. Basic soft contact lenses are chosen by millions of Americans to provide clear and comfortable vision without needing to rely on glasses.  There are many different options for designs and materials of soft contact lenses, allowing them to provide visual correction to a vast majority of people. How much do you really know about soft contact lenses? Keep reading to find out. 

Replacing Soft Contact Lenses

One of the appeals of soft contact lenses is that they come in a variety of different replacement schedules to fit everyone’s lifestyle.  There is the option of biweekly lenses, which should be discarded ever 15 days or sooner.  Some lenses follow a monthly replacement schedule, meaning they should be discarded every 30 days.  Some of these monthly lenses are considered to be “extended-wear” lenses, allowing the wearer to use them for up to six consecutive days, taking them out on the seventh day. It is important to remember that in order to reduce the risk of complications including infection, most eye care providers do not recommend sleeping in contact lenses, even if the lenses are FDA approved for overnight wear.  

More recently, optometrists have been favoring daily disposable contact lenses.  As you know, these lenses are worn for one day then discarded, with a fresh pair being used each and every day.  Daily disposable lenses are an excellent option for those people who have a history of contact lens problems or intolerance. 

Visual Correction for a Wide Range of Prescriptions 

The wide variety of design options for soft contact lenses means soft lenses can be an option for almost everyone.  The most common type of soft contact lenses is called a spherical lens, which helps correct vision for those with nearsightedness or farsightedness.  For people with an astigmatism, a toric lens can be used to provide clear and consistent vision.  Soft contact lenses even come in a multifocal option for those people who rely on bifocal glasses or reading glasses.  All of these corrective options can come in a monthly, biweekly, or daily replacement schedule, meaning that no what your visual needs may be, there is likely a contact lens option for you.  

Spicing Up Soft Contact Lenses

Contact lenses can come with several different features or add-ons.  Your doctor can fit you with special colored contact lenses. These lenses can be designed with your specific prescription to correct your vision and enhance or change the natural color of your eye.  One of the newest contact lens technologies is UV-activated lenses, which are clear lenses that become tinted when exposed to sunlight. These lenses have proven to be especially useful for outdoor athletes who may require some extra sun protection.  If you interested in special contact lenses with a cosmetic aspect, it is important to receive FDA-approved lenses.

Dr. Anthony Spina and the staff of Premier Eye Associates specialize in eyeglasses, soft contact lenses, hard contact lenses (also known as RGP's and scleral contacts) and more. Call our eye doctor in Auburn, AL today at (334) 539-5391 or schedule an appointment online  for a vision therapy evaluation and have all your FAQ's about vision therapy answered! Our eye exams and optometrist provide the highest quality eye services amongst eye doctors in the Auburn Alabama area.