Friday, November 23, 2007

Contact Lens Frequently Asked Questions

We have put together a list of the most common questions received by doctors and staff.

  1. Can I wear soft contact lenses if I have astigmatism?
    Yes, you can wear a special type of soft contact lens called a toric lens which will correct your astigmatism. However, these lenses are typically more expensive and there are fewer types and colors available than there are with regular (spherical) lenses. Recently, Wesley-Jessen introduced a 2-week disposable toric lens, the Freshlook Toric. Several manufacturers including Ciba (Focus) and Coopervision (Preference) produce 1-3 month frequent replacement toric lenses.

  2. Is a contact lens prescription different than a glasses prescription?



  5. What's the difference between rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses and soft lenses?
    RGPs are smaller and made out of a harder, less pliable material than soft lenses which makes them less comfortable initially. RGPs correct astigmatism whereas soft spherical lenses do not.

  6. Can I swim with my contact lenses in?


    Yes, the most common option is called monovision where one eye is corrected for viewing distant objects and the other eye is corrected for reading and close work. Monovision is a good solution for some people, but not everbody can successfully adapt to the arrangement. Another alternative
    is bifocal contact lenses which are available in both rigid gas permeable or soft lens designs. However, these are typically very expensive. Recently, however, Johnson and Johnson released the Acuvue
    Bifocal which is a two-week disposable lens and is more reasonably priced.

  9. Do colored contact lenses work on dark eyes?
    Yes, they are called opaque contacts as opposed to enhancer tints which work only on light colored eyes. Year-long (daily wear and extended wear) opaque contacts are available in many different colors and shades but there is currently only one brand that offers a 2 week disposable opaque lens. These are Freshlook Opaques by Wesley-Jessen.


    On February 4th, 2004, a Federal Law called the “Fairness To Contact Lens Consumers” act went into effect. This law made it much easier for you toenjoy the savings and convenience of ordering on-line.

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