Contact Lenses
Function without Frames
Choosing contact lenses over standard eyeglasses is not always just about the look you want to achieve. If you prefer how you look without frames, that’s great! But contacts might also be considered if:
- You have a high prescription or astigmatism that contacts are better suited for.
- You regularly wear non-prescription sunglasses or goggles and don’t want the additional hassle of frames (although prescription sunglasses and sport eyewear do exist).
- You have a job or hobbies where you don’t want to worry about losing your glasses.
- You play sports and need a wider field of view.
We are happy to discuss the possibilities of contacts with you, if that is a path for vision correction you are interested in taking. Dr. Seim can discuss with you not only whether contact lenses would have any particular benefits for you over glasses, but which particular type of contact lens might best suit your needs as well.
Choices for Contact Lenses
Not all contacts are created the same. Just like eyeglass lenses, there are different models, materials, and treatments that significantly affect performance and even appearance.
Not all of the options below will be recommended for every patient, and some options can be combined. A comprehensive eye exam and a brief review of your daily vision needs will help us determine the best potential selections for you.
Soft Lenses
Soft lenses focus on comfort and stability, but must be replaced on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis depending on the model. They tend to be a good choice for athletes and active individuals since they are less likely to dislodge or shift around. Most prescriptions can be accommodated to soft lenses, including astigmatism.
Gas-Permeable (GP) Lenses
GP lenses, made of moderately flexible plastic, have more durability than soft contact lenses and can offer sharper vision to correct most vision problems. The tradeoff compared to soft lenses is that GP lenses typically take longer to adjust to, and leaving them out for a long period of time can create the need to readjust.
Silicone Hydrogels
Silicone Hydrogels are somewhat of a hybrid between soft lenses and GP lenses. They possess more of the comfort and ease of soft lenses with some of the permeability of GP lenses, allowing them to typically be worn longer. These are more breathable and therefore healthier for the eyes compared to the regular soft material.
Multifocal Lenses
Yes, you can have bifocal contacts! Multifocal lenses can provide patients the benefits of both distance and near vision correction somewhat like a pair of bifocal glasses. The vision isn’t exactly the same, but dependence on glasses is greatly reduced. This type of lens is available in both soft and GP compositions.
Color Contact Lenses
The color-changing element of these lenses is purely cosmetic, but you can easily combine vision correction and a new eye color. Having dark eyes does not typically kill your chances of changing shades, either – lenses are available that can change both light and dark eyes.
Vision Correction to Fit Your Unique Needs
Whether contacts, eyeglasses, or even another form of vision correction is your preference, we will ensure you receive our best recommendations based on our experience and your lifestyle. We will also show you how to properly care for your eyewear and other products so you can get the most out of them.
Call our office at (269) 668-5558 to schedule an appointment. Or, if you prefer to reach us electronically, fill out our online contact form and a member of our staff will respond during standard office hours.
