How is gas permeable contact lenses different?

If you have decided to wear contacts instead of eyeglasses you must find out what type of contact is right for you. It could be gas permeable contact lenses or rigid gas permeable contact lenses? We will discuss each one and their differences. Then maybe you will be able to pick the one that is right for you and your eyes. Find additional information about colored contacts on this website.

What are gas permeable contact lenses?

Gas permeable contact lenses are small, curved durable pieces of plastic. They are very flexible. They can easily fit in your eyes. They are able to float on the tear film that is in front of your cornea. The plastic which is used to make this type of contact lenses allows oxygen to reach your eye. Although, this type of contact lens is not the same as hard lenses from the past, they are sometimes referred to as "hard" or "rigid." This is because they are harder and considered more durable than standard soft contact lenses. In the current trend these lenses are prescribed often due to the materials from which they are made.

Bifocal gas permeable contact lenses are available for people who have presbyopia. You can also get them in multifocal designs. Different people require different bifocal designs and there fore you can think of having multiple choices. Many bifocal users find that gas permeable bifocal contacts give a better combination of near and far vision. You can even get colored gas permeable contact lenses.

Some advantages of these lenses are that there is a less adjustment period to getting used to wearing them. They will provide you with excellent vision. They are very comfortable to wear and easy to put on.

Possible disadvantages

There are a few disadvantages of wearing these lenses. They require that you wear them consistently. Only then you will get adapted to them. They tend to move easily or slip off from the center of your eye than other types of contacts. Debris gets under the lenses easier and requires several office visits with your eye care physician for care and follow-ups.

Some people experience a blur in their vision when they remove these types of lenses, even when they are wearing their glasses. This can cause lot of inconvenience as people will be forced to wear contact lenses for ever.

If you are using this type of contact lens, there is a minimal chance for developing corneal ulcers. This is a very serious infection that might damage your vision if you don't seek treatment for it. If you sleep with them, it can decrease the oxygen supply to your eye and as well as damage your vision. Unfortunately, they can also reshape your cornea whether you want them to or not.

What is their cost?

This type of contact can be more expensive. However if you choose the right type of lenses then they are certainly worth for the price. Depending on where you purchase your contacts, they can cost anywhere from $68 per lens for standard lenses to $135 for rigid bifocals per lens. If you buy the standard then the replacement costs for annual care is $55 per lens. If you order another set at your initial fitting, then they are sold at half price. If you get toric base or bitoric for astigmatism, then you may be paying $130 per lens for the initial fitting . Replacements can cost $95 per lens under annual care. And if you have rigid bifocals, then the replacements cost is around $105 under annual care. You might be able to find a better bargain by shopping online for your contact lenses.

Are they safe to use?

As long as you replace these lenses annually, they are pretty safe. Since you dispose them once in a year, it is extremely important that they are very hygienic and free from harmful bacteria and other germs. If your eyes are dry or gritty or red and if you are irritated, and your vision is not clear, then you should consult your eye care professional and have your eyes and lenses checked. You may need to try a different type of lens.

How to use and care for them

This type of contact lens is easier than normal soft contact lenses. Always wash your hands before you clean your contacts. You rub them slightly with your contact lens solution. Next you want to rinse the lens and store it in your contact lens case. Make sure you case i s filled with a conditioning solution.

So if you decide that gas permeable contact lenses are right for you, then contact your eye care provider and have a detailed discussion and analyze the pros and cons. Rigid gas permeable contact lenses can be a great investment if they are cared for. The final decision is yours.