What Types of Specialty Contact Lenses are Available?

In the world of vision correction, contact lenses have come a long way. While traditional contact lenses are an excellent option for many people, there are times when specialized or "specialty" contact lenses are necessary to address specific vision needs or eye conditions. These specialty contact lenses offer a customized solution to improve visual acuity, comfort, and overall eye health.
 

Specialty contact lenses are designed to cater to individuals with unique eye shapes, refractive errors, or medical conditions that require a more tailored approach to vision correction. Whether you're struggling with astigmatism, dry eyes, or a corneal irregularity, there's likely a specialty contact lens option that can help.
 

Different Types of Specialty Contact Lenses

Specialty contact lenses come in a variety of forms, each designed to address a specific vision or eye health concern.

• Toric Contact Lenses: Designed for individuals with astigmatism, a condition where the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) is not perfectly spherical. Toric lenses have a unique shape that helps correct the distortion caused by astigmatism, providing clearer and more focused vision.
• Multifocal Contact Lenses: Ideal for individuals with presbyopia, a natural age-related condition that makes it difficult to focus on close-up objects. Multifocal lenses have different prescriptions in different areas of the lens, allowing you to see clearly at various distances.
• Scleral Contact Lenses: Designed for individuals with irregular corneal shapes, such as those with keratoconus or post-refractive surgery complications. Scleral lenses are larger than traditional contacts and rest on the white part of the eye (sclera), providing a smooth, uniform surface for improved vision.
• Hybrid Contact Lenses: Combine the benefits of rigid gas-permeable (RGP) and soft contact lenses. Hybrid lenses offer the clarity and stability of RGP lenses with the comfort of soft lenses, making them a great option for those who struggle with traditional contact lens wear.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Eye Exam with an Optometrist

Choosing the right specialty contact lenses is a collaborative process between you and your eye care provider. A comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist is essential to ensure a proper fit and optimal visual outcomes.
 

During the exam, your optometrist will thoroughly evaluate the health and structure of your eyes, as well as your specific vision requirements. They will use advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to determine the underlying cause of your vision or eye health concerns, and recommend the most suitable specialty contact lens option. The exam may include:

• Measurements of your corneal curvature and shape
• Assessment of your tear film quality and dry eye symptoms
• Evaluation of your refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
• Determination of your near and distance vision needs

Getting Fitted at Lookout Eyecare

At Lookout Eyecare, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality vision care, including access to the latest specialty contact lens technologies. Our experienced optometrists and knowledgeable staff are dedicated to helping you find the perfect specialty contact lenses to meet your unique needs.
 

Call our office or visit our website to schedule an appointment with one of our optometrists. During the exam, we will thoroughly evaluate your eyes and discuss your vision and eye health concerns. Based on the findings of your eye exam, our optometrist will recommend the most suitable specialty contact lens option for you. We will explain the benefits, features, and proper care and maintenance of the recommended lenses.
 

Once you've received your specialty contact lenses, we'll schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor the performance of your lenses and make any necessary adjustments. Our goal is to ensure your continued comfort and visual satisfaction.
 

Visit Lookout Eyecare to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and discover the specialty contact lens solution that's right for you. Visit our office in San Antonio, Texas, or call (210) 236-7273 to book an appointment today.