Soft disposable contact lenses may be one of the most popular options available for visual correction, but many options beyond theses lenses exist. Traditional contact lens options, such as rigid gas permeable lenses, hybrid contact lenses, and newer scleral contact lenses, have provided many people with improved vision and comfort. These specialty contact lenses may be a superior option for a wide variety of reasons, whether it’s for improved comfort, correcting for high amounts of astigmatism, or addressing dry eye symptoms. At Central Missouri Eyecare Associates Eye Group, we can fit you in the specialty contact lens that works best for you and your eyes.
Gas Permeable Lenses
Gas permeable contact lenses, also known as GP lenses, are rigid lenses made from a biocompatible plastic that easily transmits oxygen to the front surface of the eye. These lenses are smaller in diameter than the typical soft contact lens and rest on the tear film in the center of the cornea. The designs and materials used in current rigid GP lenses are far superior than traditional hard contact lenses; GP lenses today are a comfortable, healthy option that provide exceptional optics and clear vision. Gas permeable contact lenses are a great option for those with high amounts of astigmatism who may struggle to achieve consistently clear vision with soft contact lenses. GP lenses can also be used in the treatment of a corneal condition known as keratoconus, where high amounts of irregular astigmatism are formed. Gas permeable lenses can be made with several options of multifocal designs, making them a popular option among presbyopes who may require additional help while reading. If properly cleaned and cared for, a single pair of gas permeable lenses can last a long time, even up to a year, making them a convenient and cost effective option for correcting vision.
Hybrid Lenses
Hybrid lenses are contact lenses with a rigid center, surrounded by a soft skirt. The rigid center of the lens is similar to a gas permeable contact lens, and can provide the benefits of GP lenses such as clear optics. The surrounding soft skirt is made of the same material as soft contact lenses, and can help improve comfort and stability. For those who find adapting to traditional GP lenses too difficult, hybrid lenses may be the perfect alternative.
Scleral Contact Lenses
Scleral contacts are large-diameter gas permeable contact lenses specially designed to cover the entire corneal surface and parts of the sclera (the white part of the eye). In doing so, the scleral lenses essentially “replaces” the cornea irregular cornea, providing you with a clean, clear, and smooth surface to help correct your vision.
If you have been told in the past that you could not wear contact lenses, schedule an appointment with us today. Scleral lenses can help you see better if you have:
- Astigmatism
- Keratoconus
- Dry Eye
- Corneal Transplant
- Many More!
Generally, anyone that is interested in achieving the best vision possible with contact lenses can be a candidate for scleral lenses. Some of the most common candidates are people with irregular corneas, keratoconus, corneal scars, dry eyes, and general “hard to fit” eyes. Scleral lenses provide comfortable and clear vision to help you see better throughout the day!