Who Is a Candidate for Specialty Contact Lenses?

Many people enjoy the freedom and convenience that contact lenses provide. However, not everyone can comfortably wear standard contact lenses due to unique eye conditions. This is where specialty contact lenses come in — offering a solution for those with specific visual needs.

Different Types of Specialty Contact Lenses

Specialty contact lenses are designed to accommodate various eye conditions and shapes that standard lenses cannot. For instance, individuals dealing with keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges outward, may find that standard lenses do not fit comfortably or provide adequate vision correction. Scleral lenses, which vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of the eye, may offer a better solution by creating a tear-filled vault that improves vision and comfort.

Another example includes patients with severe dry eye syndrome. Traditional contact lenses may exacerbate dryness and discomfort, but certain specialty lenses are designed to retain moisture and provide relief throughout the day. Moreover, for individuals with high astigmatism, toric lenses specifically designed to accommodate the irregular shape of the eye can offer clearer vision than standard lenses.

Who Might Benefit From Specialty Contact Lenses?

Specialty contact lenses can benefit a wide range of patients, including those with any of the following conditions:

Dry Eye Syndrome

For patients suffering from dry eyes, wearing contact lenses can often be a challenge. Specialty lenses like scleral or gas-permeable lenses can provide oxygen permeability and moisture retention, which are necessary to keep the eyes comfortable.

Presbyopia and Astigmatism

As we age, the lens of our eye can lose the ability to focus on close objects, a condition known as presbyopia. Specialty multifocal and bifocal lenses correct vision at all distances. Similarly, those with astigmatism may require toric lenses designed to cater to the eye’s irregular shape for clear vision.

Keratoconus

This condition, characterized by a cone-shaped cornea, can make regular contact lenses difficult to fit. Custom-fit scleral or rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses can offer a solution by providing a more stable fit and clearer vision.

The Importance of a Professional Evaluation

Determining the right type of specialty contact lens requires a thorough examination by an experienced optometrist. At Vienna Eyecare Center, our team is equipped with the expertise and technology to assess your specific needs. A comprehensive eye examination will help us determine whether specialty contact lenses are suitable for you and which type will best meet your needs.

If you struggle with contact lens discomfort or poor vision correction, schedule an appointment with Vienna Eyecare Center. You can reach us at (703) 938-7633 or through our contact page for more information.

Dr. Richard Snively