Contact Lenses
Since the FDA approved the first soft contact lens in 1971, technology has changed tremendously. Today there are hundreds of different contact lenses on the market. Lens brands differ in a multitude of ways, including the optical design, material, wearing schedule, and water content.
It is important to have a discussion with an eye care professional to see which lens will work best for you. The lens selection will take into account many factors, including your prescription, the overall health of your eyes, the size and shape of each eye, and even special activities or sports you may engage in.
Types of Contact Lenses
While each person and each eye is different, below are some of the more common contact lens types prescribed today:
Daily disposable soft lenses
- Currently the fastest growing lenses on the market
- Ideal for children, patients with allergies, or those that actively engage in sports or outdoor activities
- Great money saver for part-time wearers
- Healthiest lens modality, offering a sterile lens with each wear
Planned replacement lenses
- Replaced on a set schedule, usually every two weeks or monthly
- Require daily cleaning and disinfecting
- Available in most prescriptions
Toric lenses
- Ideal for patients with mild to moderate astigmatism
- Available as planned replacement, daily disposable, and RGP
Multifocal lenses
- For correction of presbyopia-a condition in which reading and close work becomes difficult with age
- Great option for those who want to cut down on their dependency to bifocal or progressive glasses
Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses
- Offer excellent vision
- Great for patients with irregular corneas or a large amount of astigmatism
- Longer adaptation period than the softer disposable lenses
Things to Remember about Contact Lenses
- Contact lenses offer improved peripheral vision compared to glasses, a natural field of view, and can greatly reduce distortions.
- Contact lenses, when compared with glasses, require a longer initial examination and more follow-up visits to maintain eye health; and more time for lens care.
- In order to ensure successful lens wear, you will have to clean and store them properly; adhere to lens wearing schedules; and make appointments for follow-up care.
Want to know if contact lenses will work for you? Worn contacts for years but wondering if there is something more comfortable out there? Call our office today at 973-538-5287 to set up an appointment.
J. C. Reiss offers a wide variety of contact lenses from all major manufacturers including:
- Alcon/Ciba (Air Optix, Dailies, Fresh Look)
- Bausch & Lomb (PureVision, SofLens)
- CooperVision (Avaira, Biofinity, Clariti, Proclear)
- Johnson & Johnson/Vistakon (Acuvue 1Day, Oasys)