Contact lens types
Types of contact lenses: how to choose the best option for your eyes
Contact lenses vary by material, replacement schedule, wearing schedule, and prescription design. The best option depends on your eye health, prescription, comfort needs, and lifestyle. A Fielmann Vision Care optometrist can help determine which contact lenses are safest and most effective for your eyes.
Soft contact lenses
Soft lenses are the most commonly worn type of contact lens. They are flexible and can be available as daily disposable, bi-weekly, monthly, toric, multifocal, or other specialty designs.
Rigid gas permeable lenses
Rigid gas permeable lenses, often called RGP or GP lenses, hold their shape and allow oxygen to pass through the lens material. They can provide crisp vision for some patients, including certain astigmatism or irregular cornea needs, but may require more adaptation time than soft lenses.
Replacement schedules
Daily disposable lenses
Daily disposable contacts are worn once and discarded at the end of the day. They are convenient, require no cleaning routine, and may be helpful for travel, allergies, sports, or part-time wear.
Bi-weekly and monthly replacement lenses
These lenses are reused for a specified replacement period and require proper cleaning, disinfection, and storage. They may be a practical choice for full-time wearers who are comfortable following a daily care routine.
Extended-wear lenses
Extended-wear contact lenses are designed for overnight wear only when specifically prescribed. Because sleeping in lenses can increase infection risk, patients should follow their optometrist's instructions carefully and attend recommended follow-ups.
Toric contact lenses
Toric lenses are designed to correct astigmatism. They have different powers in different meridians of the lens and must orient correctly on the eye to provide clear vision.
Multifocal contact lenses
Multifocal contacts help patients with presbyopia see at more than one distance. They may support near, intermediate, and distance vision, depending on the lens design and patient needs.
Color and specialty lenses
Some lenses change or enhance eye color, while others are designed for specific medical or vision needs. Even cosmetic contact lenses require a valid prescription and professional fitting.
At Fielmann Vision Care, our optometrists take the time to explain the different types of contact lenses available and help you find the best fit for your vision needs, comfort, and lifestyle. Schedule a contact lens exam and fitting at a convenient location near you in Rockford, Woodstock, Belvidere, Algonquin, Machesney Park, Crystal Lake, Huntley, Lakemoor, or Antioch.
Wondering which contact lens type may fit your daily routine?
Explore our guide on how to choose contact lenses that fit your lifestyle
Frequently asked questions
Follow the schedule prescribed by your eye doctor and the lens manufacturer. Replacement schedules may be daily, bi-weekly, monthly, or another prescribed interval.
Yes. Contact lenses, including cosmetic lenses, require a valid prescription and fitting.
Toric lenses are commonly prescribed to correct astigmatism and must fit properly to perform well.
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