Contact lenses can be a great alternative to glasses for full time wear or occasional use for sports or social events. The availability has grown to be able to fit people with astigmatism, people who need bifocals, dry eye patients and people with corneal problems. At our office we have the latest lens technology for astigmatism, high oxygen gas permeable lenses and bifocals including the new Acuvue Bifocal.

Soft Lenses
Conventional soft contact lenses are those in which one pair is purchased and is replaced yearly. Disposable or planned replacement lenses are lenses which are replaced on a regular basis; every day, 2 weeks, 1 month, 2months or 3 months depending on the brand and on your needs. Generally a supply of disposable lenses is purchased at one time. The trends in the contact lens industry are moving toward a disposable market due to ocular health advantages and ease of care.

Almost all types of soft lenses have the capability of correcting astigmatism with what is called a toric lens. These are available in most powers. Many people are told they cannot wear soft lenses due to astigmatism. This is not the case, however, some people are better candidates than others.

Gas Permeable Lenses
Rigid gas permeable lenses or RGP’s are made from different plastics than soft lenses. They are smaller and fit the cornea differently. RGP’s generally provide sharper vision than soft lenses. These lenses are very healthy for the eye and are the best way in most cases to correct astigmatism. They are best worn on a regular basis and one pair of lenses may last one to three years making them very economical. They are not disposable but can be polished in our office regularly if build up or scratches occur.

Bifocal Contact Lenses
Bifocal contact lenses are available in both soft and RGP materials. These are a great alternative to wearing glasses. If you are a current RGP wearer, a bifocal can be designed for you in this type of lens. The vision is very natural and it is very easy to adapt to these lenses.

If you wear soft lenses or have never worn contacts then a soft lens bifocal may be a good option for you. These are available in the new disposable bifocals or even conventional soft lenses which can also correct for astigmatism.