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Soft Contact Lenses: Not All the Same

Calgary Optometry Centre addresses contact lens issues, questions & news:

There are many types of soft contact lenses available and just as many technical words to describe them-disposable, conventional, extended wear, bifocal, toric and low/medium/high water. Patients who wear soft contact lenses are usually unaware of the specific type of lenses they wear, only referring to them as "soft contacts".

Contact lenses are not all the same. At the most basic level, each soft contact lens type is distinguished by four characteristics:

1. Plastic polymer type (lens material)
   
2. Water content
   
3. Manufacturing process
   
4. Oxygen transmissibility
   

Wearing the wrong type of contact lens may result in blurred vision and eye discomfort (burning, stinging, dryness and redness).

Which soft contact lens type is the best?

There is really not one contact lens type that is best suited for every patient in every situation. The lens that works for you may be totally inappropriate for someone else. There are many variables that our doctors consider to find the best contact lens type for each individual patient. Factors to consider include:

• Type of prescription
  
• Eye sensitivity and health
  
• Work and recreational environments
  
• Lifestyle
  

The doctors of Calgary Optometry Centre will combine specific lens characteristics with your personal characteristics to achieve successful contact lens wear. This means clear vision, good comfort, easy handling, durable lenses and most importantly, healthy eyes. Let us help to recommend the best soft contact lenses for your lifestyle needs.