Smith & Walker Optometrists

Introduction

Contact lenses provide a desirable alternative to spectacles for many individuals. Most patients wear their lenses year in, year out without problem. However any contact lens wear carries an increased risk of eye infection. We minimise this risk by providing careful instruction on wear and hygiene, regular check-ups, high quality cleaning systems and sensible replacement regimes. In the event of a problem any wearer of our contact lenses can arrange for an appointment with us at no charge: the annual check up fee covers all appointments that may be necessary in the year.

There are many different types of contact lenses and the information that follows is intended for persons interested in lenses for cosmetic reasons or for sport. Before fitting lenses we discuss the different options available to you.

Hard contact lenses

Modern hard lenses are called Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses because the materials used actually allow oxygen to pass through the lens matrix. This is the single most successful type of lens ever fitted. They offer good vision, correct most levels of astigmatism and have a superb safety record. Many hard lens wearers have been wearing them for the greater part of their lives. They are long lasting and easy to clean. The solutions are relatively inexpensive and because a single pair of lenses may last many years they represent the least expensive option too. Initially RGP lenses are less comfortable than the soft lens types. However as the eyes become accustomed to the lenses their comfort increases and eventually (normally within one month) they are perfectly comfortable.

Soft contact lenses have steadily gained in popularity over the past 20 years due to advances in lens and solution technology. Patients often select these lenses as their first choice because they are comfortable right from the outset. Monthly disposable soft lenses probably account for the majority of our new fittings. Disposable lenses have been developed in response to chemical deposits from the tears and solutions that can accumulate on the surface of soft lenses and irritate the eyes. We usually fit lenses to change at intervals of one or six months. The particular regime selected depends on various factors such as the tears, lens power and fit.

Astigmatism:

Patients with astigmatism can be fitted with 'toric' soft lenses to achieve good vision.

'Dailies'

'Dailies' are a particularly popular soft lens development. These mass-produced lenses are designed for discarding at the end of the day. They are convenient for travelling too, as no additional solutions are required. The annual cost of dailies is greater than other disposable types so most Dailies wearers use them for sport an social occasions. However their comfort and convenience leads some to use them for daily wear.

'Night and Day'

'Night and Day' A new polymer has been developed which allows far greater oxygen transmissibility. These lenses can be worn continuously for up to one month at a time without nightly removal and cleaning. The initial reports are encouraging, though the profession is cautious about fitting contact lenses to sleep in, as it is almost certain that the rate of complications will be higher.

Varifocal contacts

These are available in gas permeable and soft lens materials. When we reach our mid forties most of us need additional optical help for close work. This necessitates reading spectacles over the top of contact lenses. With varifocal contact lenses the spectacles are avoided altogether. However many patients find that the quality of vision is not quite so good as can be achieved with the combination of normal contact lenses and spectacles. Before considering varifocal lenses you need to discuss your needs with the optometrist, as there are a number of different options to consider.

Tinted Lenses

These are soft lenses that alter or enhance the eye colour. 'Fun' lenses actually place a picture over the iris e.g. a smiley face. As with all contact lenses these still have to be properly cared for and worn responsibly.

Should I have gas-permeable or soft lenses?

The best way to make this decision is to discuss your requirements with the optometrist. Soft lenses are ideal for patients who want instant comfort and 'Dailies' may be preferred for intermittent social and sports wear. RGP lenses are perfectly comfortable once the adaptation period is complete and they are suitable for patients with moderate astigmatism and those who plan to wear their lenses for many years.