Soft Contact Lenses
Soft contact lenses are far and away the most commonly used type of contacts in the United States and also the world. Soft contacts can correct a variety of visual problems including:
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
- Aging eyes (presbyopia)
Soft contact lens varieties include:
- Daily wear – this is the most common pattern for contact lens wear. A supply of contact lenses is purchased. They are worn for the day and before sleep, these lenses are placed in a cleaning solution. These lenses are typically worn for two to four weeks before they are discarded for a new lens. More frequent replacement makes the lenses safer with less chance for complications.
- Extended wear – these lenses theoretically can be worn even to sleep. Extended wear lenses should be removed at least weekly for cleaning. We discourage most people from sleeping in their contact lenses as the risk of complications including blinding eye infections increases substantially. These lenses may make an excellent option for daily wear as they tend to be thinner and have improved oxygen transmission.
- Daily Disposable – these are generally the safest option. At the end a day, the contact is thrown away and a new one placed the next day. These lenses do not need to be cleaned and the lowest risk of complications occurs with these lenses. The downside of these lenses is cost as they are usually the most expensive option.
