Who Should Consider Specialty Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses have long been a popular solution for vision correction, but not everyone’s eyes are the same. Some people have unique eye conditions that make it difficult to wear traditional contact lenses comfortably or effectively. That’s where specialty contact lenses come in. Designed to address more complex vision problems, these lenses offer personalized solutions for patients with a variety of needs. Here’s a closer look at who might benefit from considering these advanced options.

Individuals with Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea becomes irregularly shaped, making it difficult for standard lenses to provide clear vision. Specialty lenses, like scleral lenses, are often the go-to solution for keratoconus patients. These lenses are larger and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye) rather than the cornea, providing better stability and improved comfort for those with this condition.

Patients with Dry Eyes

Dry eye syndrome can make wearing regular contact lenses uncomfortable, leading to irritation and redness. Specialty contact lenses, such as hybrid or scleral lenses, can help manage dry eyes by creating a tear reservoir between the lens and the eye, keeping the cornea hydrated throughout the day. These lenses are specifically designed to minimize discomfort and promote moisture retention, making them an excellent choice for dry eye sufferers.

People with Astigmatism

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is more football-shaped rather than round, leading to blurred or distorted vision. While toric lenses are typically used to correct mild to moderate astigmatism, patients with more complex prescriptions may need gas permeable or custom toric lenses. These specialty lenses offer better precision in correcting irregular corneal curvature, resulting in sharper vision and more comfortable wear.

Those with Irregular Corneas

Irregular corneas can develop from surgeries, injuries, or certain conditions like corneal ectasia. Traditional soft contact lenses may not sit well on irregular corneas, causing discomfort and blurry vision. Gas permeable (GP) lenses or scleral lenses are ideal for managing this issue because they provide a smooth refractive surface, allowing for clearer, more consistent vision.

Presbyopia Patients

As we age, many people develop presbyopia, a condition where the eye gradually loses its ability to focus on close objects. Traditional reading glasses are an option, but specialty contact lenses like multifocal lenses allow presbyopia patients to enjoy both near and far vision correction without the need for bifocals or readers. These lenses provide a more seamless transition between different focal distances, improving overall visual experience.

Athletes and Active Lifestyles

People with active lifestyles, especially athletes, may find that traditional lenses don’t offer the stability and comfort they need. Specialty lenses designed for athletes, like orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses, are worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, offering clear vision during the day without the need for daytime contact lenses. This is especially beneficial for those who participate in sports where glasses or regular lenses might be impractical.

Post-Surgery Patients

Patients who have undergone eye surgery, such as LASIK or corneal transplants, may experience irregularities in their vision afterward. In these cases, specialty contact lenses, particularly scleral lenses, can provide a more customized fit to accommodate the unique shape of the eye post-surgery. These lenses can enhance comfort and visual clarity for those recovering from surgical procedures.

Those with High Prescriptions

Patients with very high refractive errors—whether nearsightedness, farsightedness, or a combination—might not achieve the best results with regular lenses. Custom-made lenses tailored to your specific needs can help ensure optimal clarity and fit, even for the most challenging prescriptions.

Are Specialty Contact Lenses Right for You?

If you’ve been struggling with traditional contact lenses or have a condition that affects your ability to wear them comfortably, it may be time to explore specialty contact lenses. At Monroe Vision Associates, we will assess your vision needs and recommend the best type of specialty lenses for you.

Schedule a consultation with Monroe Vision Associates to learn more about how specialty contact lenses can enhance your vision and improve your overall quality of life. Contact our office in Monroe Township, New Jersey, by calling (609) 604-6400 to book an appointment today.