Understanding Specialty Contact Lenses: Types and Benefits

While many people think of contact lenses as simply hard or soft, the world of specialty contact lenses offers solutions for individuals with unique vision needs. These advanced lenses are designed to address specific conditions, providing enhanced comfort and functionality. Let’s explore three key types of specialty contact lenses and their advantages.

Top 3 Specialty Contact Lens Options in Pittsburgh, PA

Specialty lenses are created to tackle specific vision challenges. Here’s a closer look at the most common types:

1. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
   RGP lenses are known for their durability and oxygen permeability. These firm lenses are often recommended for individuals with corneal irregularities, such as keratoconus. A subtype, Ortho-K lenses, is worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, potentially reducing dependence on glasses or contacts during the day.
2. Scleral Lenses
   Unlike standard lenses that rest on the cornea, scleral lenses are designed to vault over it, resting on the sclera (the white of the eye). This makes them an excellent option for individuals with severely misshapen corneas, providing both comfort and improved vision.
3. Toric Lenses
   Toric lenses are specifically crafted to correct astigmatism, a refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Unlike traditional lenses, toric lenses are uniquely shaped to provide precise correction based on the eye’s horizontal and vertical orientations.

Why Visit an Eye Doctor in Greensburg or Pittsburgh for Specialty Contacts?

If you’ve ever assumed contact lenses weren’t an option for you, think again. Modern advancements in lens technology make it possible to address a wide range of vision issues comfortably and effectively. Specialty lenses, such as Ortho-K, even offer the potential to reshape your cornea and reduce your reliance on corrective eyewear altogether.

At Lappen Eye Care, we specialize in helping patients find the right contact lenses for their unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with keratoconus, astigmatism, or other vision challenges, our team is here to guide you toward a clearer, more comfortable future.