Contact lenses have revolutionized the way we correct our vision. They offer a practical alternative to glasses, providing a full field of focused vision, unmatched comfort, and convenience. However, not everyone can wear standard contact lenses. Some individuals have unique eye conditions that make the use of regular contacts difficult or even impossible.

 

What are specialty contact lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are designed to correct vision issues that cannot be comfortably or effectively treated with standard contact lenses or glasses. They are customized to fit the unique shape and needs of an individual's eyes. These lenses are frequently used to address severe vision problems, including those caused by corneal irregularities and other eye conditions.

Eye Conditions Remedied by Specialty Contact Lenses

Specialty contact lenses offer solutions for a variety of eye conditions that are difficult to manage with standard contact lenses or glasses. These include keratoconus, severe dry eyes, post-surgical eyes, high astigmatism, and presbyopia.

Keratoconus, as mentioned earlier, causes the cornea to bulge into a cone shape, leading to distorted vision. Specialty lenses like scleral lenses or RGP lenses can help manage this condition by providing a smooth surface for light to enter the eye, improving vision.

High astigmatism, where the cornea or lens is not perfectly round, can cause blurred or distorted vision. Custom soft lenses or RGP lenses can be designed to correct this issue.

Presbyopia, a condition associated with aging, affects your eye's ability to focus on close-up objects. Multifocal specialty lenses can provide clear vision at all distances, making them a great solution for presbyopia.

Specialty lenses can also play a therapeutic role. They can protect the cornea in cases of severe dry eyes or ocular surface disease, promoting healing and providing comfort. They can also be used in conjunction with other treatments, like corneal crosslinking for keratoconus, to enhance visual outcomes.

 

Different Types of Specialty Contact Lenses

There are several types of specialty contact lenses designed to accommodate various eye conditions and vision correction needs. The most common types include rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, scleral lenses, hybrid lenses, and custom soft lenses.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses are made from durable plastic that transmits oxygen. These lenses are more rigid than traditional soft lenses, maintaining their shape while on the cornea. RGP lenses provide crisp, clear vision and can correct most vision problems.

Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable lenses designed to vault over the entire corneal surface, resting on the'sclera' or the white part of the eye. These lenses are beneficial for conditions like keratoconus, post-corneal surgery complications, and severe dry eyes.

Hybrid lenses combine the crisp vision of RGP lenses with the comfort of soft lenses. These lenses have a rigid central zone, surrounded by a soft peripheral skirt.

Custom soft lenses are similar to regular soft lenses, but they are custom-made to fit the wearer's unique eye shape and size. These lenses can correct a wide range of vision issues, including astigmatism and presbyopia.

 

Benefits of Using Specialty Contact Lenses

The benefits of using specialty contact lenses extend beyond just vision correction. These lenses offer superior comfort, especially for individuals with sensitive eyes or severe dry eyes. They're custom-designed to fit your unique eye shape and size, providing a more comfortable wearing experience.

Specialty lenses also provide sharper, more accurate vision correction than standard lenses. They can manage complex vision issues that standard lenses can't address, improving your quality of life.

Finally, specialty contact lenses are durable and long-lasting. While they may require a larger initial investment compared to regular contacts, their longevity often makes them a cost-effective solution in the long run.

 

Are specialty contact lenses right for you?

Specialty contact lenses are a game-changer for individuals with unique eye conditions that standard lenses can't adequately address. They offer a customized solution tailored to the specific needs of the wearer's eyes, providing superior comfort and vision correction.

If you're struggling with keratoconus, severe dry eyes, or high astigmatism, specialty contact lenses may help improve your vision and quality of life. Consult with our professionals to determine if these contacts are the right solution for you. Visit Vision Source Grove Heights in our Houston, Texas, office. Please call (346) 567-8344 to schedule an appointment today.