Contact Lens Solutions for Astigmatism: Expert Care in North Wales
Understanding Astigmatism and Contact Lens Correction
Astigmatism is a common condition that causes your vision to appear blurry or distorted at any distance. Our eye doctors use precise measurements and the latest lens technology to help you see clearly again.
Astigmatism happens when the front part of your eye, the cornea, is shaped unevenly, more like a football than a basketball. This irregular curve bends incoming light unevenly, making images appear fuzzy or warped. Sometimes, the lens inside your eye may also have an uneven shape, and both can contribute to astigmatism.
If you have astigmatism, you might notice blurry vision, headaches, eye strain, or trouble focusing, especially at night. These issues can make daily tasks hard to manage.
- Blurred or wavy vision
- Frequent squinting to see clearly
- Eye fatigue after reading or computer use
- Halos or streaks appearing around lights
Many people are born with some astigmatism and may notice changes as they age. It can also develop after eye injuries, certain diseases, or eye surgery. Regular eye exams with our North Wales specialists help catch and manage astigmatism early.
Because astigmatism involves unique curves in each person’s cornea, most require custom-designed lenses called toric contacts. These lenses are made to match your eye’s unique shape and correct vision by aligning perfectly with your cornea.
Advanced Contact Lens Options for Astigmatism
Our team offers multiple types of contact lenses, each designed to fit your eye and lifestyle. We help you choose the best match, from everyday comfort to specialized correction.
These are flexible lenses designed for mild to moderate astigmatism. With special stabilizing features, they stay centered on the eye and provide reliable vision all day. Many brands offer daily, biweekly, and monthly options for convenience.
RGP lenses are firm and provide crisp vision for higher astigmatism levels. They are durable and resist deposits but may require a brief adjustment period.
- Sharper optics for significant astigmatism
- Stable correction for irregular corneas
- Long-lasting and easy to clean
- May take time to get used to
Hybrid lenses combine an RGP center for clarity with a soft outer ring for comfort. These are great for patients who need sharper vision but want the comfort of soft lenses.
Scleral lenses are large-diameter contacts that rest on the white of your eye and vault over the cornea, creating a smooth optical surface. These are excellent for severe astigmatism or irregular corneas and provide consistent comfort with a custom fit.
If you need vision correction for both astigmatism and reading, toric multifocal designs offer clear sight at all distances. Our eye doctors will recommend options tailored to your needs.
Fitting Astigmatism Contact Lenses at ReFocus Eye Health North Wales
Getting the right contact lens starts with a thorough exam. We use advanced tools to measure your prescription and match you with lenses that fit comfortably and work with your lifestyle.
Your fitting appointment includes a complete eye health check and precise measurements. We look at your vision strength, corneal shape, tear quality, and eyelid function.
- Determining your ideal prescription
- Mapping your unique corneal curves
- Checking your tears and overall eye health
We use special imaging tools to measure the steepness and orientation of your cornea. This helps us choose the best lens design for your eyes.
We’ll have you try sample lenses in the office. Our team watches how the lenses settle, checks alignment, and listens to your comfort feedback to find your perfect fit.
Most patients adapt quickly to soft toric lenses, while rigid or specialty designs may take a few weeks. We’ll teach you how to wear and care for your new lenses.
A follow-up visit ensures your lenses fit well, your vision is clear, and your eyes remain healthy. We’ll adjust your prescription or lens type if needed and give you care tips for lasting comfort.
- Checking lens movement and stability
- Reviewing comfort and vision quality
- Answering questions and updating your plan
Daily Wear and Care Tips
Proper cleaning and handling help your lenses last and keep your eyes safe. We provide guidance tailored to your lens type and lifestyle.
Wash your hands before touching lenses. Toric lenses are designed to rotate into the proper position, often within minutes after they’re inserted. If vision seems off, blinking helps settle them.
Except for daily disposables, contacts must be cleaned and stored each night. Use only recommended solutions and replace your lens case regularly for hygiene.
- Never use tap water or saliva for cleaning
- Use fresh solution every time
- Discard old solution and do not “top off”
- GP and scleral lenses need special care systems
- Replace your lens case every 1-3 months
If lenses move or blur, remove, clean, and reinsert them. Persistent issues may require a different design or fit, so contact our office for help.
We offer daily, biweekly, and monthly lens options. Daily disposables are easiest to maintain, while longer-wear lenses can be cost-effective if you clean them properly.
We encourage you to have current eyeglasses as a backup. Remove contacts before sleeping unless prescribed otherwise, and give your eyes a break whenever you feel dryness or discomfort.
Comparing Correction Options
Our eye doctors discuss all your choices so you can pick the right vision correction for your needs. Contacts, glasses, and advanced treatments are available right here in North Wales.
Contacts move with your eyes for a wide field of view and are practical for active lifestyles. Glasses are easy and require no direct handling of your eyes.
- Contacts offer frame-free, natural vision
- Ideal for sports and outdoor activity
- Glasses are convenient and low-maintenance
Soft lenses give fast comfort, while rigid (GP) lenses deliver sharper vision but need longer adaptation. Your eye doctor will suggest the best type for your everyday needs.
Some patients consider ortho-k lenses, which gently reshape the cornea overnight. These are safe and reversible, but require ongoing care and follow-up.
Procedures like LASIK may provide lasting correction for astigmatism. Contact lenses remain a flexible choice that adapts as your eyes change over time. Our doctors can discuss all the pros and cons based on your health and goals.
Toric lenses cost a bit more than standard contacts, reflecting their advanced design. The value includes improvement in vision, comfort, and confidence during all your daily activities.
Recognizing Problems and When to Contact Us
Our goal is to keep your eyes healthy and vision clear. Call us if you notice any issues with your lenses or eye comfort.
It’s normal to experience mild dryness, tearing, or light sensitivity when starting new lenses. These usually fade within days or weeks as your eyes adjust.
- Light sensitivity improving with time
- Mild redness after lens removal
- Tearing that lessens as you adapt
If your vision stays blurry or you see double images after the adjustment period, your lenses may need a fit or prescription update. We will help you find a solution quickly.
Remove lenses and contact us immediately if you experience sudden pain, redness, or discharge. These could signal an infection or injury needing urgent care. If severe symptoms occur after hours, seek emergency help.
If your lenses begin to feel uncomfortable or your vision worsens, make an appointment with our North Wales office. Your prescription or lens material may need updating.
- Irritation or frequent discomfort
- Unusual rotation or movement of lenses
- Frequent replacement needed due to deposits
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about astigmatism contact lenses. Our North Wales team is here to provide guidance and support at every step.
Yes, specialty lenses like rigid, hybrid, or scleral contacts can address even high or irregular astigmatism. Our doctors will determine the best option during your exam and fitting.
If your astigmatism is low, some patients may do well with standard or aspheric soft lenses. Your eye doctor will confirm what works best for your vision.
Most people find modern toric lenses as comfortable as regular soft contacts. Special design features help them stay stable on your eye.
Some colored toric lenses are available, though the selection may be limited. Ask us about the latest options if you’re interested in both vision correction and eye color enhancement.
Toric multifocal contacts are available for people who need correction for both astigmatism and near vision. We offer lens designs that balance these needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Care, Cost, and Safety
We want you to feel confident about caring for your lenses and understanding any costs involved. Our doctors and staff are here to walk you through each step.
Toric lenses usually cost 20 to 50 percent more than standard contacts, depending on your prescription, brand, and how often you replace them. We’ll discuss all options and help you choose what fits your budget and vision goals.
Only certain contacts are approved for overnight wear, and sleeping in lenses raises your risk for infection. Nightly removal is safest unless your doctor prescribes otherwise.
You should always remove contacts before swimming, showering, or using a hot tub. Water exposure increases infection risk.
Use cleaners and solutions recommended for your contact lens material. For scleral lenses, always fill with preservative-free sterile saline.
Your Clear Vision Starts Here
ReFocus Eye Health North Wales is committed to helping you achieve comfortable, clear vision with the best contact lens technology available. Our expert doctors and caring staff serve North Wales, Lansdale, Norristown, and the Greater Philadelphia Region, making personalized eye care easy and accessible. Schedule an exam with us and see how the right contacts can transform your everyday life.
Dr. Barouh listens, explains in an easy way, and has been very patient with my contact lens fit.
Nancy Morris
Dr. Clark made my mom comfortable, explained the issue in great detail, and thanks to him we have corrective treatment in early-stage glaucoma.
Maureen Boyd
Dr. Martinez and team were 2nd to none. Very thorough, articulate and explained everything very well to me. Highly recommend Dr Martinez.
Francis Wynne
Dr. Francis Clark found my brain tumor in minutes after multiple doctors missed it. The pituitary tumor was removed and my vision restored. Forever grateful.
James McCabe
Dr. Lindsey Barouh and the staff at North Wales provide me outstanding eye care. Everyone is extremely professional and courteous. The facility is comfortable. Thank you!
Michael O'Boyle
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Wednesday: 8am-4pm
Thursday: 8am-4pm
Friday: 8am-4pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed