For people who require vision care, contact lenses can be an attractive alternative to glasses. Unfortunately, the risk of infection and the maintenance necessary to keep them safe and clean deters many prospective contact lens customers. Understanding the different types of contact lenses in Cape Cod, MA that are available, and how they affect your vision and your eye health, is an exceedingly important part of knowing whether contacts are right for you.
Types of contacts
There are a number of different types of contacts available for personal use. Understanding how each type functions and the care associated with it can help you determine if it is the right solution for your vision care needs.
Contacts are frequently broken down into two broad categories: soft and hard. Soft contacts are typically formed from plastic or other similar, pliable material. Hard contacts are more rigid and long-lasting. Here are some of the most commonly found commercial contact lenses available in Cape Cod, MA:
- Daily disposables: A common type of soft contact, daily disposables are worn for a single day, and then thrown out. This means that they don’t require any care or cleaning, and can be a good solution for people with allergies.
- Silicone-based contacts: Silicone-based contacts are extremely breathable, and fight deposit formation. This means that they can be worn for an extended period of time before needing to be replaced. Some silicone contacts can be worn for as long as a month.
- Bifocal contacts: These hard contacts correct more serious eye problems. Because they are formed from a rigid, gas-permeable substance, they require frequent cleanings and must be carefully maintained to avoid damaging or infecting your eyes.
Silicone-based sleepers
Some silicone-based contact lenses in Cape Cod, MA are suitable for extended use. Some models are even approved to remain in your eye as long as a month!
Most of these extended-use silicone contacts are designed to be used continuously for 30 days and then disposed of. Carefully observing your eye doctor’s recommendations and instructions for use is an extremely important aspect of caring for your vision.
Just because a contact lens is approved for extended wear, however, doesn’t mean that you should assume it is completely safe. Your eyes receive less oxygen at night, and wearing lenses throughout the evening could cause them to become air-deprived.
Despite the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s approval, many eye care professionals insist that patients continue to remove their contacts at night, even when using extended-use silicone contacts. The best way to determine if extended-use contacts are right for you is to consult with your vision care team. Eye care experts can provide you with the information you need to make an informed and conscious decision!
For two decades, Bayview Optometrics has been providing the highest possible quality of contact lenses in Cape Cod, MA. You can rely on our well-crafted contacts to provide you with comfortable and long-lasting vision solutions. Reach out to one of our talented professional representatives today to begin discussing which eye care methodology is best suited for your needs and your lifestyle!