Which vision problems are corrected with contact lenses?
Contact lenses correct the same vision problems as eyeglasses:
- Nearsightedness (myopia): Can see nearby objects but distance vision is blurry
- Farsightedness (hyperopia): Can see distant objects but close-up vision is blurry
- Presbyopia: Can’t see close-up objects, making it difficult to read
Can contact lenses correct astigmatism?
Yes, specialized toric contact lenses are made with different powers in various parts of the lens. As a result, they can correct for astigmatism, which causes nearsightedness and farsightedness in different areas of your vision.
What are the different types of contact lenses?
After examining your eyes, Dr. Wilson talks with you about the types of contact lenses and which one is best for your eyes. Lenses are made from different materials that allow varying amounts of oxygen to reach your eye. Oxygen is needed to maintain a healthy cornea.
Soft contact lenses
Soft contact lenses are the most popular type because they’re made from silicone hydrogel, which is comfortable and lets plenty of oxygen pass through the lens.
Gas-permeable lenses
These lenses are rigid like traditional hard contacts, but they allow sufficient oxygen flow to keep your eyes healthy.
Hybrid contacts
Hybrid lenses have a gas-permeable material in the center that’s surrounded by a soft material.
Which other contact lens options are available?
Besides choosing a basic lens material, other options let you customize your contact lenses. These are just a few examples:
Disposable contact lenses
Wearing contact lenses increases your risk of developing an eye infection. Your contact lenses must either be cleaned routinely or replaced with fresh lenses to prevent that problem.
You can discard or replace disposable lenses every day, every two weeks, or monthly, depending on the type. By comparison, you need to replace traditional reusable lenses that require cleaning about every six months.
Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses
Just like bifocal eyeglasses, you can get contact lenses that provide clear vision at all distances.
Extended-wear lenses
Several brands of contact lenses are approved for extended wear, which means you can wear them continuously, even while you sleep. Your lenses may be approved for 7-30 days of continuous wear, depending on the brand.
When you need vision correction but don’t want eyeglasses, Dr. Wilson offers many types of contact lenses. Call the office or use online booking to schedule an eye exam and consultation.
