Contact Lens Fitting and Follow-up

Lens Type

Advantages

Disadvantages

Disposable Soft Contact Lenses

Excellent vision
Comfortable to wear
Short adaptation period
Availability in many designs

Available in extended wear (can sleep in contact lenses)

Many convenient replacement shedules: one day, one week, 2 week, one month, three months, or yearly

Require more frequent replacement

May not provide as sharp of visual clarity as more rigid materials

Not available in every prescription

Gas Permeable Contact Lenses

Excellent vision
Easy care and handling
Durable material
Available in most prescriptions
Availability in many designs

Slightly longer adaptation period to lenses

Uncomfortable if decentered

Corneal Refractive Therapy

Only worn during sleeping hours

Lenses re-shape the cornea to provide clear daytime vision with out contacts or glasses

Less expensive than laser vision correction

Only available for certain prescriptions

* please follow link for more information: corneal refractive therapy

Requires a customized fitting process

Bifocal Contact Lenses

Can correct difficulties with near focusing

Available in many designs and materials

Requires a custom fitting to ensure vision at both distance and near

When doing extended near work activities (reading/computer work), it may still be beneficial to wear reading glasses at times.

Toric Contact Lenses for Astigmatism

Can correct for astigmatism

Require a custom fitting so the lenses don't rotate on the eye

Color Contact Lenses

Can change the color of your eyes

Easier to see in the case

Must center well to appear natural

Medically Necessary Contact Lenses

These lens designs can improve vision in patients with keratoconus, corneal distortion, or after eye surgeries such as a corneal transplant

Often the cost of the contact lens fit and materials are covered by your medical insurance.

Requires custom designs, so lenses may take longer to be manufactured

Plan for several office visits to perfect the lens design, vision, and comfort.