The main categories of contacts are soft and rigid. Each of these has
many types and applications. Spherical lenses correct
nearsightedness
or
farsightedness
. Toric lenses correct
astigmatism
.
Soft Contact Lenses
Soft lenses are most popular due to increased comfort and wearing
time. The soft flexible nature of these materials may lead to
unsatisfactory acuity for some people. Also the porous nature of soft
lenses can lead to accumulation of deposits from the tear chemistry of
the eye. These deposits from the tear chemistry of the eye lead to eye
infections; therefore, multi-packaged lenses that are replaced on a
regular basis have largely eliminated these problems. Virtually
all the patients at Burrows Vision Clinic have this type of lens which
results in clearer vision and healthier eyes.
The first soft lenses that give less than satisfactory acuity have
been replaced with new designs including lenses to correct
astigmatism. These soft toric lenses give much sharper, clearer vision
to patients with residual astigmatism, who have previously been fitted
with spherical lenses.
Extended Wear Lenses
Some soft lens materials are oxygen permeable enough to be worn during
sleep. These are called extended wear lenses. The life span of a daily
wear lens (taken out and stored overnight) is longer than an extended
wear lens. Patients wearing extended wear lenses need to be seen more
frequently to monitor eye health.
Also available are lenses that are worn one full day and then
discarded before sleep. This eliminates problems with storage solution
reactions that some patients experience. These lenses can be worn on a
very intermitted schedule such as weekend sports, etc. Due to new
manufacturing technology these are affordable for many people.
Rigid Lenses
Rigid lenses are made of materials that are much improved in oxygen
permeability. Some prescriptions are best corrected with these
materials. After the initial period of adjustment to lens wear many
people find this type of lens gives them sharp crisp vision. Some
rigid materials are permeable enough that they can be worn as extended
wear. This is the type of lens used in CRT (corneal refractive
therapy).
Bifocal Lenses
Both rigid and soft lenses are available to correct some prescriptions
requiring bifocals.
If you have questions or concerns about contacts you are currently
wearing or have never worn contacts make an appointment with us.
You may benefit from new technology. At Burrows Vision Clinic we
let you "test drive" lenses with your prescription any time you have a
contact lens examination. This means you can try the experience of
wearing contacts out of the office without financial risk. When you
return for your progress exam the doctor can evaluate and discuss with
you your suitability to wear contact lenses on a long term basis.
The fast pace at which contact lens materials are coming to market can
be confusing to the consumer. It is hard to separate facts from hype
for anyone not directly involved and educated in the field. This
section should help clear up misconceptions.