Do I Need Specialty Contact Lenses?

Many people do not realize that one type of contact lenses will not fit everyone. There are many reasons why different people need different types of contact lenses. Some people even need lenses shaped to fit their unique eye shape. Others may have a particular vision problem that requires specialized lenses.

 

The first step toward better vision with clarity and comfort is to get a thorough exam with a vision care specialist. They can help determine whether a patient needs specialty contact lenses and which type is best. Here are some of the conditions that may require a specialty contact lens.

 

The Shape of the Cornea

Irregularly shaped corneas can make wearing regular contact lenses difficult or impossible. Many things can cause this condition, including previous eye surgery, naturally occurring irregularity, or a condition called keratoconus. Because keratoconus can take between four and seven years to develop, the corneal shape continues to change. Specialty lenses can provide the best vision correction.

 

Covering Trauma or a Defect

One type of specialty contact lens is the prosthetic lens. Prosthetic lenses can treat several conditions. They can correct for a congenital defect of the iris or pupil that may or may not affect vision but does affect the appearance of the eye.

 

Prosthetic lenses can also help people who suffer from photophobia — light sensitivity — by blocking or filtering light. Other patients may need a light-blocking device for therapeutic reasons, and prosthetic lenses are much less noticeable than an eye patch.

 

Scleral Lenses

Custom-made scleral lenses are a great option for many people. They come in several sizes. Full scleral lenses are a great option for some people with Dry Eye Disease (DED). The larger surface area of the back of the lens can hold in more moisture and bring soothing relief to chronic dry eye sufferers.

 

Hybrid Options

Gas permeable lenses are best for visual clarity and visual sharpness, but many people find them uncomfortable. A hybrid option can create a more comfortable fit while still maintaining great vision. Some gas permeable lenses have a softer surrounding piece, like a skirt. The soft edge is in contact with the eye, but the majority of the lens is gas permeable.

 

It is also possible to have one type of lens sit on top of another. Piggybacking is when gas permeable lenses sit on top of softer, more comfortable lenses.

 

Finding the Right Fit

No one’s eyes are exactly alike, and there are many different conditions and reasons that make standard contact lenses difficult to use. Measurements from specific tests can help to create a unique specialty contact lens. Full scleral lenses can sharpen vision and also bring dry eye relief, and prosthetic lenses can make the wearer feel less self-conscious.

 

Discussing all your specialty contact lens options with your vision care specialist is key. City Eyes Optometry Center in Sherman Oaks, California, can help you find the right specialty lenses. Call (818) 960-1300 today to schedule an appointment.

 

Find out if you are a candidate for specialty contact lenses, contact City Eyes Optometry Center in Sherman Oaks, CA at (818) 960-1300.