Unveiling The World Of Specialty Contact Lenses

Specialty contact lenses have transformed the eyecare landscape. These lenses offer solutions tailored to individuals that go beyond standard refractive errors. The evolution of contact lenses beyond conventional lenses has been life-changing for many people. In this blog, we will discuss the world of specialty contact t lenses, including hard lenses, soft lenses, multifocal lenses, and scleral lenses.


Soft contact lenses have gained a reputation for being comfortable and adaptable. Soft contact lenses have a close fit and are easy for wearers to adapt to. This allows them to be offered in a range of options including daily disposable, bi-weekly, and monthly lenses. These lenses are a good fit for those with more common refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. 


Rigid gas permeable (RGP lenses), also known as hard contact lenses, offer clarity and precise correction of vision. Hard contact lenses are made up of silicone-containing compounds that allow oxygen to pass through the contact lens to the eye. These lenses allow more oxygen to reach the surface of the eye which allows it to breathe better. Hard contact lenses can provide sharper vision because they maintain their shape on the eye. Hard lenses are rigid, so you don’t have to worry about them tearing. They are also much easier to clean and with proper care a single pair can last up to a year. It is important to note that hard contact lenses need to be adapted to, so you are unable to wear them part-time. They are also more vulnerable to sand and dust and replacing them can be more costly.


Multifocal lenses come in both soft lens and rigid gas permeable (RGP, or hard) lens materials. These lenses incorporate multiple prescriptions into a single lens. These lenses are great for individuals with Presbyopia, the age-related loss of near focusing ability. They allow wearers to transition between distant and close vision without needing to switch eyewear. 


Scleral lenses are larger than soft contact lenses. They're firm, hold their shape, and rest on the sclera around the cornea. Like hard (RGP) contact lenses, scleral lenses are made from rigid materials, but that’s where the similarities end. Scleral lenses have unique features: a large diameter and a tiny, built-in reservoir of water. Scleral lenses are commonly used in cases of severe dry eye syndrome and have become a revolutionary solution for individuals with irregular corneas or conditions such as keratoconus. 


Opting for the ideal specialty contact lens requires expert direction. Our dedicated team at Coachella Valley Optometry will administer a thorough eye exam to determine your specific visual needs, ocular well-being, and lifestyle prerequisites. They will then propose the most fitting lens variety that aligns with your distinct needs.


Specialty contact lenses are a groundbreaking solution to vision correction, catering to a wide spectrum of needs. Whether you're seeking the comfort of soft lenses, precise vision correction of hard lenses, the ease of multifocal lenses, or the moisture of scleral lenses, the key to a successful experience lies in collaborating with an experienced eye care professional. With our expertise at Coachella Valley Optometry, you can discover the specialty contact lens that is right for you!