When picking out your new contact lenses, your eye doctor may ask you if you prefer the hard or soft kind. If you’ve never had to choose between the two before or want to consider a new style, it helps to know the pros and cons of both varieties ahead of time. Comprehensive Eye Care of Washington, MO, recommends hard and soft lenses to its patients for different reasons. Read the comparison guide below to determine which kind is right for you.

Hard vs. Soft Contact Lenses 

Hard Lenses 

Hard contacts are recommended by eye doctors for their durability, easy care instructions, and clear vision. In addition, they’re affordable, easy to wear, and they retain their shape long-term. If you need bifocal or multifocal lenses, the hard option may be your best choice. Additionally, you won’t need extra supplies to maintain this type, because they don’t need to be rehydrated. They come in a variety of color and style options. While there are many benefits to this type of lens, they are easily scratched if not maintained properly. They also require regular use to feel comfortable. 

Soft Lenses 

The biggest benefit of soft contacts is that they’re more comfortable to wear. Since they’re disposable, they are also convenient and easily transportable. Most patients report they stay in place easier than hard contacts and are simpler to adjust as necessary. If you suffer from dry eyes, this kind will help maintain your ocular health by increasing oxygen flow. Patients should be cautioned, however, about the higher rate of eye infection and decreased durability with soft lenses. They are also more expensive than the hard type. 

By knowing the pros and cons of hard and soft contacts, you can work with your eye doctor to choose the best option for you. To make an appointment to discuss contact lenses, call Comprehensive Eye Care in Washington at (636) 390-3999. For information about their eye exams and selection of glasses, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.