Contact Lenses 101: Types, Care & Expert Tips

If you’ve ever considered contact lenses but felt unsure about whether they’re right for you, you’re not alone. Many people hesitate to make the switch from glasses simply because they don’t know enough about contact’s. The good news? Most people who wear glasses can also wear contact’s – including those who need multifocal lenses.

Whether you want to enjoy a glasses-free look, more freedom in your daily activities, or improved peripheral vision, contacts could be a game-changer for you. Thanks to modern advancements in eye care, contact’s are now clearer, more comfortable, and more convenient than ever before.

Why Choose Contact Lenses?

Contact’s provide several benefits that make them an appealing option for many people:

• Unobstructed Vision – Unlike glasses, contact lenses move with your eyes, giving you a full field of vision without frames in your peripheral view. 
• Comfort & Convenience – Once fitted properly, contact lenses feel natural and eliminate the need to constantly adjust or clean your glasses.
• More Active Lifestyle – Whether you enjoy sports, outdoor activities, or dancing, contact lenses allow for a greater range of motion without the risk of glasses slipping or breaking.
• Aesthetic Appeal – Some people simply prefer their look without glasses, and contact lenses provide the flexibility to choose between the two.

Types of Contact Lenses

There are a wide range of contact lenses to suit different vision needs and lifestyles. At Adelaide City Optometrist, our experienced optometrist’s will assess your eyes and recommend the best option for you.

1. Soft Contact Lenses

These are the most commonly used lenses due to their comfort and ease of use. They are made from flexible materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the eye. Soft lenses come in several varieties: 

• Daily Disposables – These lenses are worn once and discarded, making them the most hygienic and low-maintenance option.
• Fortnightly or Monthly Lenses – These can be worn for multiple days but require daily cleaning and storage in a contact lens solution.
• Toric Lenses – Designed for people with astigmatism, these lenses provide a stable and clear vision. 
• Multifocal Lenses – Perfect for people who need different prescriptions for distance and near vision.

2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

These lenses are more durable and provide sharper vision than soft lenses, particularly for people with high prescriptions or irregular corneas. Though they require a longer adjustment period, they last longer than soft lenses and can be more cost-effective in the long run.

3. Specialty Contact Lenses

For individuals with unique eye conditions, speciality lenses may be recommended. These include:

• Scleral Lenses – Larger lenses that vault over the cornea, often used for people with keratoconus or severe dry eyes.
• Hybrid Lenses – A combination of a hard centre and soft outer ring, providing both clear vision and comfort.
• Ortho-K (Orthokeratology) Lenses – Worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, offering clear vision through the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.

Are Contact Lenses Right for You?

Most people can wear contact lenses, but getting a professional fitting is crucial to ensure they are safe and comfortable for your eyes. All of our optometrists are trained to fit lenses, and go by: right lens type, material and fit based on factors such as your prescription, lifestyle, and eye health.

A contact lens fitting includes:

• A thorough eye examination to assess your vision and eye health.
• Measuring the size and shape of your cornea to ensure a proper fit.
• Trial lenses to test comfort and vision.
• Instructions on how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses.

Caring for Your Contact Lenses

Proper care is essential to maintaining eye health and getting the best experience from your lenses. Here are some essential tips:

• Wash your hands before handling your lenses to avoid bacteria to your eyes.
• Follow the wearing schedule recommended by your optometrist – don’t extend the use of daily lenses or over-wear extended-wear lenses.
• Use the right solution to clean and store your lenses (never use tap water or saliva!).
• Replace your lens case regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.
• Schedule regular check-ups to ensure your eyes remain healthy while wearing contact lenses.

What Contact Lens Brands Do We Use?

All of the brands we use are recommended by our optometrist. We find that each brand has a purpose as some lens types may work better in one brand over another. 

• Alcon
• Bausch & Lomb
• Coopervision
• J&J
• Menicon

Getting Started with Contact Lenses

If you’re considering contact’s, the best way to start is with an eye test. At Adelaide City Optometrist, the team are here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and ensure you find the perfect contact’s for your needs.

With today’s technology, contact lenses are more accessible than ever – providing clear, comfortable vision without the restrictions of glasses. Whether you’re a first time wearer or looking to upgrade your lenses, we’re here to help you see clearly and live freely.