The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Contact Lenses

When it comes to vision correction, contact lenses offer a versatile and convenient alternative to glasses. With a wide variety of options available, finding the right contact lenses to suit your lifestyle and vision needs can feel overwhelming. At Broad View Eye Center, we're here to help you navigate the world of contact lenses so you can make the best choice for your eyes.

Understand Your Vision Needs

The first step in choosing the right contact lenses is understanding your vision needs. Depending on your prescription, you may require different types of lenses to correct common vision problems such as:

• Nearsightedness (Myopia): Difficulty seeing objects far away.

• Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Difficulty seeing objects up close.

• Astigmatism: Blurred or distorted vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea.

• Presbyopia: Age-related difficulty focusing on close objects.

Types of Contact Lenses

There are several types of contact lenses, each designed for specific vision needs and comfort preferences. Some of the most common options include:

1. Soft Contact Lenses

Soft lenses are made from flexible materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea, making them comfortable for extended wear. They come in different options, such as:

• Daily Disposable Lenses: Worn for one day and discarded. Ideal for those who prefer a fresh pair of lenses each day with no maintenance.

• Bi-weekly or Monthly Lenses: Worn for two weeks or a month, depending on the brand. These lenses require cleaning and storage overnight.

2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses are made of durable materials that allow oxygen to reach the eye. They offer sharper vision than soft lenses and can correct more complex vision problems like astigmatism. While they may take longer to get used to, RGP lenses are more durable and long-lasting.

3. Toric Lenses

Toric lenses are designed to correct astigmatism and are available in both soft and RGP materials. These lenses have a special design that ensures they stay in place on the eye, providing clear vision for those with astigmatism.

4. Multifocal Lenses

If you have presbyopia, multifocal lenses offer a solution for both near and distance vision correction. These lenses come in both soft and RGP options, allowing you to see clearly at all distances without needing reading glasses.

Lifestyle Considerations

Your lifestyle plays a significant role in determining which type of contact lens is best for you. Ask yourself the following questions:

• How often will you wear your contact lenses? If you plan to wear them daily, you might prefer daily disposables for convenience. If you'll wear them occasionally, bi-weekly or monthly lenses may be more cost-effective.

• Do you play sports or lead an active lifestyle? Soft lenses, especially daily disposables, are often the best choice for active individuals because they stay in place and are less likely to dislodge during physical activities.

• Are you prone to dry eyes? If dry eyes are a concern, ask your optometrist about contact lenses designed to retain moisture, such as silicone hydrogel lenses or lenses with wetting agents.

Comfort and Fit

Contact lenses come in different sizes and curvatures, and a proper fit is crucial for comfort and clear vision. During your contact lens fitting at Broad View Eye Center, our eye care professionals will measure your eye to ensure the lenses fit correctly. We’ll also provide you with trial lenses to ensure they’re comfortable and meet your vision needs before finalizing your prescription.

Caring for Your Contact Lenses

Proper lens care is essential to keeping your eyes healthy. If you opt for bi-weekly or monthly lenses, you'll need to clean and store them in a disinfecting solution overnight. Always follow the care instructions provided by your optometrist and replace your lenses as recommended.

• Wash your hands before handling your lenses.

• Never sleep in contact lenses unless they are specifically designed for overnight wear.

• Avoid water contact with your lenses, including swimming or showering while wearing them.

• Replace your lens case every three months to prevent bacterial contamination.

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam with Broad View Eye Center Today

Choosing the right contact lenses doesn't have to be complicated. With the guidance of the expert team at Broad View Eye Center, you'll find the perfect lenses for your vision needs and lifestyle. Whether you're interested in daily disposables, toric lenses for astigmatism, or multifocal lenses for presbyopia, we're here to help you see the world more clearly and comfortably.

Schedule your contact lens exam with Broad View Eye Center and let us help you find your ideal pair of lenses. Visit our office in Berea, Broadview Heights, or Strongsville, Ohio. Please call (440) 526-7070 or (440) 238-7865 to book an appointment today.