Specialty Contacts vs. Traditional Contact Lenses

Imagine a world where your vision could be corrected invisibly, without the need for glasses that fog up with a change in temperature or get knocked off during sports. This is the reality for millions of people who opt for contact lenses. Contact lenses are an innovative form of vision correction that allows for a glasses-free life while providing clear vision to those with refractive errors.
 

What are Traditional Contact Lenses?

Traditional contact lenses are the common type that most people think of when they consider contacts. These lenses are designed to correct the most usual vision problems, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia. They are typically made from two types of materials: soft lenses, made from water-containing plastics, and rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses, made from durable plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the eye.
 

They are often available in daily, bi-weekly, or monthly disposables, which means you can choose a wearing schedule that fits your lifestyle and preference. These lenses are also relatively easy to adapt to, making them a popular choice for those new to contact lens wear.
 

What are Specialty Contact Lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are custom-made to address a range of optical issues that traditional lenses may not be able to correct. They are often used when the shape of the eye is not suitable for regular contacts or when a unique visual condition exists.
 

Specialty contact lenses come in various types, including scleral lenses, hybrid lenses, and lenses for orthokeratology. Scleral lenses vault over the entire corneal surface, providing comfort for irregular corneas, while hybrid lenses combine the clarity of RGP lenses with the comfort of soft lenses. Orthokeratology lenses are designed to reshape the cornea temporarily, reducing the need for daytime lenses.
 

Specialty contact lenses are particularly adept at addressing common eye conditions that pose challenges for traditional lens wearers. For instance, individuals with keratoconus, a condition where the cornea thins and bulges outward, can find solace in scleral lenses that create a smooth optical surface for improved vision. Similarly, those suffering from severe dry eye syndrome may benefit from scleral lenses that retain moisture and protect the corneal surface.
 

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for You

Choosing the correct contact lenses is a personal decision that should take into account your lifestyle, prescription, and any eye conditions you may have. It is vital to consult with an optometrist who can provide a comprehensive eye exam and recommend the best type of lens for your individual situation. They will evaluate your vision needs, eye health, and comfort preferences before making a suggestion.
 

Ensuring Clear, Comfortable, and Healthy Vision

In the battle of specialty contacts versus traditional contact lenses, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Your eyes are as unique as your fingerprints, and the choice of lenses should reflect your individual needs and lifestyle. Traditional contact lenses offer a convenient and familiar route for those with standard prescriptions, while specialty contact lenses open doors for individuals with more complex vision requirements.
 

To learn more on traditional contact lenses and specialty contacts or to determine which is the right solution for your visual needs and lifestyle, contact our professionals at Multnomah Vision Clinic in our Portland, Oregon, office. Call (503) 244-7788 to schedule an appointment today.