If you have vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia, contact lenses might be a great option for you. They might be a more convenient solution than glasses when it comes to playing sports or walking outside in cold weather when glasses tend to become foggy. In this blog, we will walk you through the different types of lenses that we offer at Optometric Associates of Southern Maine and share some tips on what lenses might work best for you.

Soft Contact Lenses

These lenses are made of plastic mixed with water, which eases the passage of oxygen to the cornea of the eye. There are different replacement periods for these lenses ranging from daily disposable to those that should be replaced monthly.

There are two main varieties of soft contact lenses:

●    Daily disposables

●    Made of silicone-based materials

Do you have allergies? Do you have dry eyes? Do you get irritation from cleaning solutions? Then daily disposables might be a good option for you in those cases.

Silicone-based contact lenses allow plenty of oxygen to reach your cornea and prevent a build-up of deposits. At Optometric Associates of Southern Maine, we will be happy to let you know if you are a good candidate for this type of lens.

Pros

Comfort

Soft contact lenses are typically comfortable to wear because they are made from a soft, flexible material that conforms to the shape of the eye.

Easy to Adapt to

Soft contact lenses are easy to adapt to because they are more flexible and move with the eye. They are less likely to dislodge or cause discomfort.

Cons

Higher Risk of Infection

Soft contact lenses are prone to infection because they are made from a porous material that can trap bacteria and other microorganisms, which can lead to eye infections.

Rigid Gas-Permeable Lenses

Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contact lenses are made from a rigid, durable plastic material. They offer several advantages over soft contact lenses, but they also come with some potential disadvantages.

Pros

Clearer Vision

RGP lenses offer clearer vision than soft contact lenses because they maintain their shape and do not distort when you blink. They also correct higher order aberrations in the eye, which can improve vision in low light conditions.

Durable

RGP lenses are more durable than soft contact lenses and can last for several years with proper care. They are also less likely to tear or rip, making them a good option for people who are active or play sports.

Lower Risk of Infection

RGP lenses are less likely to cause eye infections than soft contact lenses because they do not trap bacteria and other microorganisms in the material.

Cons

Less Comfortable

RGP lenses can be less comfortable to wear than soft contact lenses, especially when you first start wearing them. It can take some time to get used to the feel of the lenses. Also, they are more prone to dislodging.

Now that you’ve learned about the pros and cons of soft and rigid contact lenses, it’s time to get in touch with us! We will help you make the final decision after conducting a thorough contact lens examination!