When your eye exam indicates you’re a candidate for corrective eyewear, your optometrist may recommend contact lenses in addition to glasses. If you’re unfamiliar with contacts and the various options on the market, here’s some helpful information to review. 

4 Kinds of Contact Lenses to Consider

1. RGP Hard Contact Lenses

RGP or rigid gas-permeable contact lenses are composed of plastic and other materials. They maintain a firm and sturdy shape while allowing oxygen to flow through to your eye. Individuals prone to allergies or protein deposits on the eye are excellent candidates for this type of lens. The firm shape is also helpful for patients with astigmatism or unevenly shaped cornea. 

2. Soft Daily Wear

Soft daily wear lenses are a great choice for the occasional wearer. They are disposable and can be worn for an entire day, but not while you sleep. Many eye care patients prefer soft lenses over hard ones because they are gentler on the eye and, in turn, less noticeable when worn. 

3. Soft Extended Wear

Extended wear contact lenses are also soft in nature and composed of a highly breathable plastic that promotes oxygen flow to the eye. They are designed to be worn for longer periods of time and aren’t necessarily single-use.

Extended wear contacts can be worn when you sleep; however, they should be removed and cleaned at least once a week. It’s important to note extended wear contacts may increase your risk of eye infection if they aren’t cleaned and maintained as directed. 

4. Colored Contacts

When you’re looking to change up your look and alter the appearance of your eyes, you can combine your prescription with colored lenses. This aesthetic option is available in a variety of colors and can be applied to both daily and extended wear soft contact lenses. 

If you need a friendly, professional optometrist to help you choose the right contact lenses, South Tulsa Optical is a vision care center you can trust. With an experienced staff, state-of-the-art equipment, and the best brands on the market, this eye care practice has you covered. To schedule an eye exam, call today at (918) 494-0351. For more information on their services and their commitment to helping patients across Tulsa County, OK, maintain excellent vision, visit their website.