A Detailed Overview of the Diverse World of Contact Lenses

If you have an eyesight issue but have never tried wearing contact lenses for vision correction, it might be because a pair of stylish eyewear seemed more appropriate in your case. However, if you are ready to view the world differently, contact lenses can change the world forever but you need to keep in mind that these lenses stay in touch with your eyes. Therefore, not choosing the right pair of contact lenses or using them without caution may lead to a flurry of complications. On the other hand, choosing the right kind of lens offers excellent benefits when prescribed by an eye specialist.

Types of contact lenses

Typically, contact lenses function by bending the light rays just as when they enter the eyes. These light rays hit the retina at the appropriate spot and produce accurate and sharp images. Typically, spectacles also function in the same way but the only difference is that contact lenses for eyesight adhere to the tear film. Both address the refractive errors within the eye and help people view the surroundings appropriately.

How do contact lenses function?

Contact lenses are like small and transparent bowl-like structures that are to be placed within the eyes in a correct manner. That way, the vision becomes clearer and you can go spectacle-free. Here is what you need to know about the two major types of lenses available:

1. Soft contact lenses

Soft contact lenses are rightly named as they are flexible and extremely thin. The soft contact lenses for vision correction came to be known at first in the 1970s and are still ruling. Research reveals that over 90% of people using contacts stick to soft lenses. The reason is that they are good in retaining moisture and allow oxygen to pass through. Moreover, they are also known for high level of comfort. With new materials like silicone-hydrogels, your eyes get more oxygen.

These lenses are easy to wear due to the flexibility of the plastic material and highly compatible. Anyone wearing can use them for long hours and won’t be limited to the wearing patterns. They can be used to correct different conditions of the eyes like hyperopia, myopia, presbyopia, and astigmatism.

2. Rigid gas permeable or hard lenses

Rigid gas permeable or hard contact lenses for eyesight cannot flex or bend like soft lenses. However, they still allow oxygen to permeate through the structure, allowing your eyes to breathe freely. Usually, RGP lenses do not collect deposits and also offer better vision correction. The biggest downside of using this lens is that they are less comfortable compared to soft contact lenses.

Types of soft and hard contact lenses

Read below to gain familiarity with soft and RGP lenses

• Contact lenses for extended wear

The contact lenses for extended wear can be used overnight or for continuous use. Therefore, once you put them, they can be used up to thirty days. Usually, soft contact lenses are designed for extended wear. So, they are like thin and flexible plastics through which oxygen can easily pass. However, the duration for which you should wear the lenses depends on the evaluation of the optometrist and your toleration level as far as overnight use is concerned.

• Hybrid contact lenses

As e name suggests, hybrid contact lenses for vision correction blend the benefits of RGPs and soft lenses. They usually come with a rigid area in the middle with a layering of soft material surrounding it. Due to the unique structuring of this lens, one gets the best of both worlds that is the clear viewing of RGP lens and the comfort of soft contact lenses.

• Orthokeratology or Ortho-K lenses

Orthokeratology or Ortho-K lenses RGP contact lenses and changes the cornea’s curvature to improve the ability of focusing on different objects. With this change of setting, myopia or short-sightedness is taken care of. Ortho-K lenses are useful for daytime or overnight use. Those used for overnight use can go on for eight hours and need to be removed the next morning. Similarly, the lenses prescribed for daytime usage can be worn all the day long.

The impact of using Ortho-K lenses is temporary; so, when you stop using these lenses, the curvature of the cornea changes and returns to the original position and so is the myopic condition. You need to consult an eye care specialist who has the certification and training to prescribe these lenses.

• Disposable contact lenses

Disposable contact lenses for vision correction are those that can be replaced often after usage. Therefore, you can get daily, monthly, quarterly, or yearly lenses based on the duration of use. It might seem surprising but daily disposable lenses are those that you can wear for one day and get a fresh pair the next day. With them, you need not worry about cleaning or disinfection of lenses and are excellent for people who travel daily. Monthly and yearly lenses can be reused sometimes after cleaning them with a lens care solution. However, you must follow the advice of an eye-care specialist.

• Toric contact lenses

Toric lenses are appropriate for those who require cylindrical connection. They are widely used for treating various eye issues myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Usually, these lenses have powers in different parts and have systems that help stabilise the lens. They are highly breathable and just right for extended wear.

So, here is an overview of the types of lenses you can choose. As a user, you need to follow proper habits when wearing and using contact lenses like cleaning the hands before inserting them. Similarly, it is advisable to remove lenses when you go to sleep except when you are using one that is appropriate for overnight use. Overall, contact lenses preserve moisture, are breathable, and are excellent for improving eyesight when air quality damages eye health.

For long-term usage, contact lenses for eyesight are a god fit when you choose carefully. Malaya Optical is the one-stop destination for consulting an optometrist and buying contact lenses in Malaysia. Explore Malaya Optical for everything related to improving eyesight and vision.