Understanding the Different Types of Contact Lenses

When it comes to contact lenses in Falls Church, VA, you have more options than ever before. And, while we’re not talking about colored lenses (or those non-medical lenses they use in Hollywood to make zombie eyes!), you still have some choices to make after you get your contact lens eye exam. Here’s a helpful rundown of the different types of contact lenses to choose the best one for your vision and lifestyle needs.

Soft Contact Lenses

These have been around for a long time. Soft contact lenses are also the most common type, appreciated for their comfort and ease of getting adjusted to. Soft lenses are available in daily, bi-weekly, or monthly disposables, depending on how often you prefer to change them.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

The name sounds ominous, but rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, usually called hard lenses, are made from a more durable and rigid material than soft lenses, in case you didn’t already glean that from the name! These aren’t as popular as soft lenses, but still very much needed for some. These lenses allow oxygen to reach the eyes, promoting healthy corneas.

Specialty Lenses

If you have certain vision needs, your optometrist might recommend specialty lenses. For those with specific eye conditions, specialty contact lenses may be recommended. Toric lenses are designed to correct astigmatism, while multifocal lenses help correct both near and distance vision, making them ideal for people with presbyopia. Scleral lenses are a larger type of RGP lens that helps address conditions like keratoconus and even dry eyes. Yes, we know the terms are confusing, but your eye doctor can let you know if it’s something you need to be concerned about.

As your Falls Church, VA optometrist, Nova Vision Center wants you to be as informed as possible when you choose to wear contact lenses. For more information, please contact us today.