Contacts offer clear vision and convenience for millions of people in the United States. Understanding proper care techniques and handling methods helps maintain eye health and maximizes lens performance. Here is more information on contact lens types, proper handling procedures, and the benefits of professional guidance:
What Are Contacts?
Contact lenses are thin, curved discs placed directly on the eye’s tear film to correct vision problems. These medical devices float on the tear layer covering the cornea and move with each blink. Contacts correct refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia.
The lenses work by changing how light enters the eye, redirecting it properly onto the retina for clear vision. Modern contact lenses are made from various materials designed for comfort, oxygen permeability, and durability. They provide a wider field of vision compared to eyeglasses and eliminate issues like fogging or peripheral distortion.
What Are the Different Types?
Soft contact lenses are a common type, made from flexible, water-containing plastics called hydrogels or silicone hydrogels. These lenses conform to the eye’s shape and allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. Daily disposable soft lenses are discarded after each use, while weekly or monthly lenses require cleaning and storage.
Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are made from durable plastic materials that maintain their shape on the eye. These lenses provide sharp vision correction, particularly for astigmatism and irregular corneas. RGP lenses last longer than soft lenses but require an adaptation period for comfort. Specialty lenses include toric lenses for astigmatism correction, multifocal lenses for presbyopia, and scleral lenses for irregular corneas or severe dry eyes.
How Should You Handle Them?
Proper hand hygiene forms the foundation of safe contact lens handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, then dry with a lint-free towel before touching lenses. Clean hands prevent bacteria and debris from transferring to the lenses and eyes.
Safe insertion begins with placing the lens on the tip of your index finger and checking for tears or inside-out positioning. The lens should form a bowl shape with edges pointing upward. Hold the upper and lower eyelids open with your other hand, then gently place the lens on the eye’s center and blink slowly.
Removal requires clean hands and a gentle technique. Look upward and pull down the lower eyelid, then use your middle finger to hold the eyelid while pinching the lens gently between your thumb and index finger. Never pull or grab the lens forcefully, as this can damage both the lens and your eye.
How Is Professional Guidance Beneficial?
An optometrist provides comprehensive eye examinations to determine contact lens candidacy and prescription requirements. Professional fitting measurements include corneal curvature, pupil size, and tear film assessment. These measurements guide lens selection for proper fit and comfort.
Regular follow-up appointments allow monitoring of eye health and lens performance. Optometrists can detect early signs of complications such as infections, allergic reactions, or corneal changes. Professional guidance helps identify when lens replacement or adjustments to the care routine are necessary.
Talk to an Optometrist Today
Contact lens care requires attention to detail and consistent practices for safe, comfortable wear. Understanding lens types, proper handling techniques, and the value of professional guidance creates the foundation for successful contact lens use. Regular eye care appointments and adherence to prescribed care routines are integral for protecting your vision and eye health. Schedule a consultation with an optometrist to discuss contact lens options and receive personalized fitting services.
