What Are the Different Types of Contact Lenses Available?

Contact lenses are a popular and effective way to correct vision while offering freedom from glasses. Whether you want clearer vision for sports, aesthetics, or day-to-day convenience, contact lenses provide a range of options to fit your lifestyle and eye health needs. At Stratford Eye Care, we’re here to help you find the right lenses for your eyes and your life.
 

What to Expect During a Contact Lens Exam and Fitting

Before you get started with contact lenses, a comprehensive eye exam is essential. Your optometrist will check your eye health, measure your prescription, and discuss your vision goals. If you’re interested in contact lenses, you’ll receive a specialized contact lens exam, which includes:
 

• Corneal measurements: The doctor will measure the curvature and diameter of your cornea to ensure a precise lens fit.

• Tear film evaluation: A healthy tear film is crucial for comfortable lens wear. Your tear quality and quantity will be assessed.

• Lens selection: Based on your vision needs, eye health, and lifestyle, your optometrist will recommend the most suitable contact lenses.

• Trial lenses and fitting: You’ll receive a pair of trial lenses to wear in-office. The doctor will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments.

• Education: You’ll learn how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses to ensure safe, comfortable wear at home.

There are several types of contact lenses, each designed to address different vision needs and preferences.
 

Soft Contact Lenses

Soft lenses are the most commonly prescribed type due to their comfort and flexibility. They are available in various wearing schedules:
 

• Daily Disposable: Worn once and discarded, ideal for convenience and eye health.

• Bi-weekly/Monthly: Worn daily and replaced every two weeks or monthly, requiring nightly cleaning.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses are made from a firm, oxygen-permeable material. They provide sharp vision and are especially helpful for patients with astigmatism or certain corneal conditions. While they require an adaptation period, they are highly durable and can last longer than soft lenses.
 

Toric Lenses

For patients with astigmatism, toric lenses offer a unique design that corrects both nearsightedness or farsightedness and astigmatism. These are available in both soft and RGP materials.
 

Multifocal and Bifocal Lenses

If you need vision correction for both distance and near (presbyopia), multifocal and bifocal lenses provide a seamless transition between prescriptions, reducing or eliminating the need for reading glasses.
 

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Ortho-K is a specialized contact lens option that gently reshapes the cornea overnight. These custom-fit rigid lenses are worn while you sleep, temporarily correcting nearsightedness (myopia) so you can enjoy clear vision throughout the day—no glasses or daytime contacts required. Ortho-K is ideal for active adults and children, and it’s also a popular choice for myopia management in kids to help slow the progression of nearsightedness.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam and Fitting Today

There are more contact lens choices today than ever before. The best option for you depends on your vision, lifestyle, and eye health. At Stratford Eye Care, our expert team will guide you through every step to ensure you have the clearest, most comfortable vision possible.
 

Schedule your contact lens exam and fitting at Stratford Eye Care and find the perfect fit for your vision and lifestyle. Visit our office in Hayward, California, or call (510)274-5135 to book an appointment today.