How to Choose the Right Contact Lenses

Choosing the right contact lenses is crucial not only for your vision but also for the comfort and health of your eyes. 

With numerous types of contact lenses available on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which ones are best suited for your specific needs.

 This blog will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect contact lenses, considering various factors such as material, usage frequency, and your lifestyle needs.

Understand the Different Types of Contact Lenses

Before you can choose the right contact lenses, it’s important to understand the different types available:

• Soft Lenses: These are made from soft, flexible plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. They are comfortable and easier to adjust to than rigid gas permeable lenses.
• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: These lenses offer clear, crisp vision and can correct most vision problems. They are more durable than soft lenses and can be more effective for certain conditions, like astigmatism.
• Daily Disposables: Perfect for those with a busy lifestyle or allergies, as they reduce the chance of dirt or allergen build-up since you start with a fresh pair every day.
• Extended Wear Lenses: These can be worn for extended periods, including overnight. While convenient, they require careful monitoring to avoid the risk of eye infections.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle can significantly influence the type of contact lenses that are best for you:

• Active lifestyles might benefit from the convenience of daily disposables or extended wear lenses to avoid the hassle of daily cleaning.
• Those who suffer from allergies might find daily disposables ideal as they minimise the potential for allergen accumulation.
• If you work at a computer all day, you might want to consider lenses with moisture-retaining features to combat the dryness associated with prolonged screen time.

Consult with a Professional for a Proper Fitting

A proper fitting by a qualified optometrist is crucial to selecting contact lenses that will suit your vision needs and provide comfort:

• Eye Measurements: An optometrist will measure your eye’s surface and evaluate your tear film to determine the best type and fit of lenses for your eyes.
• Trial Lenses: Often, optometrists will provide trial lenses to ensure a good fit and comfort before you commit to a particular brand or type of lens.

Maintenance and Care Considerations

Understanding the maintenance required for different types of lenses is essential:

• Daily Care: Soft lenses require regular cleaning and disinfecting to prevent infections and maintain eye health.
• Replacement Schedule: Follow the recommended replacement schedule—whether daily, bi-weekly, monthly, or annually—to prevent discomfort and potential eye health issues.

Evaluate Cost and Quality

While cost is a consideration, it’s important to not compromise on quality when it comes to contact lenses. 

Invest in reputable brands and follow your optometrist’s recommendations to ensure that you are choosing lenses that are safe and effective for your eyes.

The Role of Contact Lens Material in Comfort and Health

Different materials used in contact lenses offer varying levels of oxygen permeability, hydration, and comfort, which are crucial for maintaining the health of your cornea and ensuring overall eye comfort.

• Silicone Hydrogel Lenses: These are advanced soft lenses that allow more oxygen to pass through to the cornea than traditional hydrogel lenses. Silicone hydrogel lenses are ideal for extended wear and for those who experience dry eyes as they help to maintain better hydration and reduce irritation.
• Hydrogel Lenses: Made from a gel-like, water-containing plastic, these lenses are very soft and comfortable initially but may dry out faster throughout the day. They are suitable for daily wear and are often more affordable.

Understanding the materials can help you and your optometrist decide which type of lens will best suit your lifestyle and wearing pattern, contributing to better eye health and comfort.

Impact of Contact Lenses on Eye Health

While contact lenses are a convenient alternative to glasses, wearing them can impact your eye health, especially if not used correctly. Regular checkups ensure that any potential issues are caught early.

• Preventing Complications: Improper use of contact lenses can lead to infections, dry eyes, or corneal ulcers. During regular visits, an optometrist can assess your eye health and provide guidance on proper contact lens care.
• Educating on Proper Hygiene Practices: It is crucial to understand and implement good hygiene practices when handling contact lenses. This includes washing and drying hands before touching lenses, using fresh solution to clean and store lenses, and replacing lenses and storage cases as recommended.

 

Conclusion

Choosing the right contact lenses involves understanding the various options available and considering your lifestyle, the required maintenance, and the importance of a professional fitting. 

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find contact lenses that provide the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and clear vision.

Book with Us

Ready to find the ideal contact lenses for your needs? Book an appointment with us at Eyes on Mosman today.

Our experienced optometrists are here to provide you with a professional fitting and personalised advice to ensure you choose the best contact lenses for your lifestyle and vision requirements.