What Contact Lenses are Best for You - SightMD Skip to main content

March 19, 2024

By: Alex Shin, OD

What Contact Lenses are Best for You

How to Choose the Right Contact Lenses for Your Lifestyle

Contact lenses offer a convenient and comfortable alternative to glasses, providing clear vision without the hassle of frames. However, with so many types of contact lenses available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones for your lifestyle.

Different Types of Contact Lenses

  • Soft Contact Lenses: Soft contact lenses are made of a flexible, water-containing plastic material that conforms to the shape of the eye. They are available in various types, including:
  • Daily Disposable Lenses: These lenses are designed to be worn once and discarded at the end of the day, eliminating the need for cleaning and disinfecting.
  • Extended Wear Lenses: These lenses are designed for continuous wear for up to a week or longer, depending on the lens type and your eye health.
  • Toric Lenses: These lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism, a common refractive error that causes blurred vision.
  • Multifocal Lenses: These lenses are designed to correct presbyopia, an age-related condition that affects near vision.
  • Gas Permeable (GP) Lenses: Gas permeable lenses are rigid lenses made of a durable plastic material that allows oxygen to pass through to the cornea. They provide excellent vision correction and are suitable for various eye conditions.
  • Hybrid Lenses: Hybrid lenses combine the best features of both soft and gas permeable lenses. They have a rigid center surrounded by a soft outer layer, providing the comfort of soft lenses with the clarity of gas permeable lenses.
  • Scleral Lenses: Scleral lenses are large, gas permeable lenses that vault over the entire cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). They are ideal for individuals with irregular corneas or conditions such as keratoconus.

How to Choose the Right Contact Lenses for Your Lifestyle

Consider your lifestyle and daily activities when choosing contact lenses. If you have an active lifestyle, daily disposable or extended wear lenses may be the most convenient option. If you spend long hours in front of a computer, consider lenses designed for digital device use.

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses based on Eye Health

Your eye health is an essential factor in choosing contact lenses. If you have dry eyes or are prone to eye infections, consider lenses that provide high oxygen permeability and moisture retention, such as silicone hydrogel lenses. If you have a specific vision correction need, such as astigmatism or presbyopia, choose lenses that are designed to address your specific condition, such as toric or multifocal lenses.

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses based on Comfort

Comfort is key when wearing contact lenses. Choose lenses that are comfortable to wear for extended periods and provide clear, stable vision. Its important to consult with an eye care professional to determine the best contact lenses for your individual needs. They can perform a comprehensive eye exam and recommend the most suitable lenses based on your eye health, vision correction needs, and lifestyle.

Contact Lens Exams at SightMD

Choosing the right contact lenses is essential for clear vision and comfort. By understanding the different types of contact lenses and considering factors such as lifestyle, eye health, and vision correction needs, you can select the best lenses to suit your individual needs. If you are considering contact lenses, contact us today to set up an appointment with an eye care professional. Together we can help you choose the right lenses and provide guidance on proper care and maintenance. With the right contact lenses, you can enjoy clear vision and comfort for all your daily activities.