Eyesight Associates prescribes a variety of contact lenses, such as soft, rigid gas permeable, bifocal, and more. While your eye doctor will help you determine which lenses are best for you, it’s helpful to understand the characteristics of each type of lens. Read the following information, and then schedule a contact lens fitting at Eyesight Associates. Our eye care professionals will be happy to find the perfect fit for you.

Soft Contact Lenses

Soft contact lenses are the most popular type of lens because they are incredibly comfortable and easy to care for. The flexible lenses allow oxygen to reach your cornea—the front part of your eye—which provides comfort, minimizes dry eyes, and maintains the health of your eye.

These lenses are worn for a certain period of time and then thrown away, reducing your chance for infection. Soft contact lenses are available in numerous varieties, including daily disposable and extended wear.

Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses

Rigid gas permeable lenses are sometimes called hard contact lenses. They’re made from a rigid silicone material that still allows oxygen to reach your cornea. These lenses provide the clearest vision, and they can correct astigmatism. Rigid gas permeable lenses are more durable than soft lenses, but some patients find them less comfortable.

Hard contact lenses are also available in varieties such as extended wear and disposable.

Bifocal Contact Lenses

Those with presbyopia—difficulty seeing up close and far away—benefit from bifocal lenses. These contacts allow you to see near and far without the help of reading glasses. They’re available as both soft lenses and rigid gas permeable lenses.

If you’re interested in learning more about the different types of contact lenses, schedule an appointment at Eyesight Associates. Our eye doctors have years of experience prescribing the best contact for everyone’s lifestyle.