Understanding the Different Types of Contact Lenses
Contact Lens Types and Materials
Not all contact lenses are the same. Our team fits a wide variety, from everyday soft lenses to specialty options for unique needs. Choosing the right material helps keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
Soft lenses are made from flexible, water-rich materials that fit comfortably on your eye’s surface. They are the most popular type because they allow oxygen to reach your eyes and suit most vision needs, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
RGP lenses are firm and offer especially crisp, sharp vision. These lenses are ideal for patients with high astigmatism or irregular corneas, like keratoconus, and can last longer with proper care.
Silicone hydrogel lenses combine comfort and breathability by letting more oxygen through to your cornea. This helps keep your eyes whiter and healthier, and can be a great choice for people who wear lenses for long hours or experience dryness.
Scleral and hybrid lenses serve patients who need extra support or comfort.
- Scleral lenses vault over the entire cornea, resting on the white part of your eye and creating a fluid reservoir for constant moisture. They’re ideal for dry eye and corneal irregularity.
- Hybrid lenses blend a firm center for sharp vision with a soft outer ring for comfort, making them a solution for complicated prescriptions.
Wearing and Replacement Schedules
The right replacement schedule for your contacts helps you stay comfortable and healthy. Our doctors consider your routine, activities, and eye health before making a recommendation.
Daily disposables are worn once and thrown away at the end of the day. This reduces the risk of eye infections and is convenient for people with allergies or busy schedules.
These lenses are worn daily and replaced every one to four weeks. With proper cleaning and nightly storage, they offer good value and safe vision for regular wearers.
Extended wear lenses are approved for continuous wear, even overnight, for up to a week or sometimes longer. Not everyone is a good candidate for sleeping in contacts, so regular check-ups and close monitoring are necessary to avoid complications.
Specialty Contact Lens Options
Our North Wales clinic fits specialty lenses for complex prescriptions and eye conditions, giving you tailored solutions for sharper vision.
Toric lenses have a special shape for stable correction of astigmatism. They are designed to maintain the proper position on your eye, so your vision remains reliably clear and comfortable.
Multifocal contacts help you see clearly at every distance, reducing your need for reading glasses by including multiple prescription zones in one lens.
Colored contacts can change or enhance your natural eye color. Even cosmetic lenses require a proper fitting and prescription to keep your eyes safe. Never buy contacts from untrusted sellers.
Ortho-K lenses gently reshape your cornea overnight to temporarily correct nearsightedness. They are especially helpful for children or adults seeking non-surgical myopia management.
Contact Lens Hygiene and Safety
Taking care of your lenses helps protect your eye health and ensure comfortable wear. Our doctors will guide you in safe habits at every step.
Wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses. Clean your contacts with recommended solutions and store them in a fresh case every day. Always follow the instructions given by your eye doctor.
Some habits can increase your risk of eye infections and other problems.
- Never clean or store lenses with tap water, saliva, or homemade solutions.
- Avoid swimming, showering, or using hot tubs while wearing contacts.
- If your eyes feel uncomfortable or look red, remove your lenses and consult an eye doctor.
Take your lenses out if you notice any of these warning signs:
- Persistent redness or irritation
- Pain in or around your eyes
- Sudden changes in vision or unusual blurriness
- Light sensitivity or seeing halos
- Unusual tearing or discharge
Starting Your Contact Lens Journey
Getting contact lenses at ReFocus Eye Health North Wales starts with a personalized fitting. We guide you through every step, so you feel comfortable and confident.
Your eye doctor will measure the shape and size of your cornea, assess your tear film, and discuss your vision needs. You’ll learn how to safely insert, remove, and care for your lenses with hands-on training.
Feeling your contacts for the first few days is normal. Most people adjust quickly, and our team will monitor your progress to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
Contact lens costs include your fitting fee, lenses, cleaning materials, and yearly eye exams. We accept many vision plans and can help you maximize your insurance benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know every patient has questions. Our team provides clear answers to common concerns about contacts. If you have specific needs, we’re always here to help you.
Yes. With guidance and responsible care, teens and first-time wearers can safely enjoy the benefits of contacts. Daily disposables are often recommended for easy use and hygiene.
Your eye doctor will recommend lenses based on your prescription, eye health, corneal shape, and lifestyle. Factors like allergies and work routines are always considered for an ideal fit.
Many patients with dry eyes can wear contacts successfully. Silicone hydrogel lenses, daily disposables, or specialty scleral lenses may be recommended after assessing your specific dryness.
Yes. Backup glasses are important for times when your eyes need a break, when you’re sick, or if your contacts cause irritation.
No. Any water exposure can lead to serious infections. Always remove your lenses before swimming, showering, or using hot tubs.
Specialty lenses like custom soft toric, RGP, hybrid, and scleral lenses provide sharp vision for complex cases. Your doctor will advise the right option after a thorough exam.
Multifocal lenses provide clear vision at multiple distances within each lens. Monovision fits one eye for distance and the other for near, and your brain adapts to each task. Your doctor can help you trial both choices.
You should have an annual eye exam and lens evaluation to keep your prescription current and your eyes healthy.
Yes, but follow safe practices:
- Put your contacts in before applying makeup.
- Choose oil-free, hypoallergenic products.
- Never apply eyeliner on your inner eyelid margin.
- Take your contacts out before removing makeup.
- Replace mascara and liquid eyeliner regularly to prevent germs.
Throw used lenses in the trash, not down the sink or toilet. This helps protect our environment from microplastic pollution.
Trust Your Eyes to Local Experts
At ReFocus Eye Health North Wales, our experienced eye doctors are dedicated to helping you enjoy safe, comfortable vision with contact lenses. We proudly serve families across North Wales, Lansdale, Horsham, and the Greater Philadelphia Region. Schedule a personalized fitting with our team to discover the freedom and confidence that contact lenses can bring to your daily life.
Dr. Barouh listens, explains in an easy way, and has been very patient with my contact lens fit.
Nancy Morris
Dr. Barouh is my ophthalmologist—excellent, knowledgeable, spends time with me, explains what is happening. Very professional and caring.
Elizabeth Szymanski
Dr. Martinez did a very thorough exam for my mom and determined issues never addressed before. Staff is friendly and efficient.
Francesca XOXO
Doctor Martinez is excellent as is her staff. Exam was thorough and diagnosis and prognosis were clearly explained.
Ed Shwed
Super job by Dr. Martinez and the entire team. Highly recommend. Thank you for your care.
Bill Hyndman
Contact Us
Tuesday: 8am-4pm
Wednesday: 8am-4pm
Thursday: 8am-4pm
Friday: 8am-4pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed