What Are Specialty Contacts?

Contact lenses are a common way to correct vision problems. You might prefer contacts over eyeglasses because they are more convenient and comfortable. Yet, sometimes, the usual contacts won’t be able to support your vision needs. In this case, you might want to get specialty contact lenses. 

What Are Specialty Lenses?

Before you learn about some specialty lens examples, let's define them first. 

Specialty contact lenses are made to address specific vision problems that may not be adequately corrected by regular contact lenses. These lenses are custom-made to accommodate the unique characteristics of your eyes. Some conditions where specialty lenses may be necessary are astigmatism, myopia, keratoconus, and corneal irregularities. 

Examples of Specialty Contacts and How They Can Help

Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) Lenses

Rigid gas-permeable or RGP lenses are harder than usual contacts. Still, they allow breathability to reduce the risk of infection. Furthermore, they hold their shape well and provide sharper vision. RGP lenses are also suitable for individuals with astigmatism and keratoconus, where the cornea progressively becomes cone-shaped.

Toric Contact Lenses

Toric contact lenses are specifically designed for individuals with astigmatism. But they may not correct your vision as well as rigid lenses. Their advantage is that you can choose between daily and extended wear depending on your needs. 

Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger gas-permeable lenses. It stretches over the cornea and the white part or sclera of the eye. They can help you if you have irregular corneas or sustained corneal trauma. The doctor may also recommend them after a corneal surgery. 

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses

Orthokeratology lenses or Ortho-K lenses are specially designed gas-permeable lenses worn during sleep. These lenses reshape the cornea overnight, temporarily correcting nearsightedness. After wearing the lenses overnight, you remove them in the morning. They can provide clear vision throughout the day without glasses or contact lenses. Ortho-K lenses are trendy among individuals who wish to experience freedom from glasses or daytime contact lens wear.

The doctor may recommend other types depending on your needs. For example, some people who underwent eye surgery may wear bandage contacts. These contacts don’t correct vision, but they can protect the eyes. Do you need contacts to protect against sunlight when you’re outdoors? Then, photochromic lenses might be for you. They are designed to darken when exposed to the sun. 

Consider Using Specialty Contact Lenses 

Specialty contact lenses have brought significant advancements in visual correction. With them, doctors can now address eye conditions that were challenging to correct with standard lenses. Rigid gas-permeable, toric, scleral, and Ortho-K lenses are just a few examples of specialized contact lenses. There are other types to cater to your needs. 

Interested in specialty contacts that can address your vision problem? Visit us at Sight & Specs Optometry in Queens, New York, for in-person consultations. You can also call 718-470-2280 to set an appointment or ask about our contact lens packages.