Contact Lenses
There are a number of reasons why you might prefer contact lenses to standard eyewear: a glasses-free look, hassle-free vision correction, wearing non-prescription sunwear and goggles, or the convenience of not having to worry about misplacing your glasses. If you have a high prescription or astigmatism, contact lenses may provide more enhanced vision correction than glasses. Today, you can even replace your bifocal glasses with multifocal lenses, including multifocal contact lenses.
Dr. Lynn Burford can recommend the best contact lenses for you based on a complete eye examination and a review of your visual needs both at work and play. Since most people can wear more than one type of lens, it’s important to know the choices available, including soft contact lenses and gas-permeable lenses, along with their advantages and disadvantages.
Soft Contact Lenses
These lenses are comfortable to wear and must be replaced monthly, weekly, or daily depending on the type you choose. Soft contact lenses are often recommended for sports because they fit closer to the eye and are more difficult to dislodge. They can provide correction for most prescriptions, including astigmatism. With the introduction of newer materials like silicone hydrogels, which allow more oxygen to the eye, patients find it easier than ever to enjoy the comfort of soft contact lenses.
Gas-Permeable (GP) Lenses
Made of moderately flexible plastics, gas-permeable lenses offer sharp vision and correct most vision problems. They are more durable than soft contact lenses and can be easier to handle and care for, although they do require a longer adaptation period and consistent wear to maintain comfort.
Multifocal Lenses
Available in both soft and GP designs, multifocal lenses offer patients both distance and near vision correction, just like a pair of bifocal glasses.
Color Contact Lenses
Enhance your eye color or even change it completely. Colored contact lenses are fun and come in a variety of shades for both light and dark eyes.
Silicone Hydrogels
Silicone hydrogels are soft contact lenses that have high oxygen permeability and provide similar comfort as GP lenses.
Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are large, gas-permeable contacts that vault over the cornea to rest on the sclera. Their fluid-filled reservoir provides continuous hydration and clear vision, making them an excellent option for severe dry eyes or corneal irregularities.
Hybrid Lenses
Hybrid lenses feature a rigid, gas-permeable center surrounded by a soft outer skirt. This unique design delivers the crisp vision of a hard lens alongside the all-day comfort and stability of soft contact lenses.
Regardless of the type of contact lenses you wear, an annual eye exam is recommended to ensure the continued health of your eyes. Schedule an appointment for an assessment and advice at Dr. Lynn Burford in Indianapolis, and we will be in touch with you shortly.
