Types of Contact Lenses

There are many different types of contact lenses, each with its own application. Here are some of the most common types of contact lenses:

  1. Soft Contact Lenses: These are the most common type of contact lenses and are made of soft, flexible plastics. They conform to the shape of the eye and are comfortable to wear. Soft contact lenses can be used for a variety of vision problems, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Soft lenses come in daily disposable, weekly, monthly, and quarterly replacement types.
  2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses: These lenses are made of rigid, oxygen-permeable plastic. They are generally more durable than soft contact lenses and sometimes provide better visual acuity and take longer to achieve adaptation.
  3. Multifocal Contact Lenses: These lenses provide correction for both near and far vision, making them an option for people with presbyopia or age-related reading needs.
  4. Toric Contact Lenses: These lenses are designed to correct astigmatism and can be acquired in soft, rigid, and multifocal designs.
  5. Scleral Lenses. These lenses are used for high prescriptions, irregular corneas, diseased or scarred eyes. They are larger than other contact lenses and rest on the scleral tissue of the eye.
  6. Custom Contact Lenses. A variety of speciality, custom lenses are available for extreme corrections.
  7. Colored Contact Lenses: These lenses are used for cosmetic purposes and can change the color of the eyes. They are available in prescription and non-prescription options.

Your eye doctor will determine the most appropriate type of contact lens for you. The right type of contact lens for an individual will depend on their specific needs and preferences.