What Are Specialty Contact Lenses and Who Needs Them?

For many people, standard soft contact lenses provide clear and comfortable vision. However, some individuals have unique vision needs that require a more customized approach. This is where specialty contact lenses come in. These advanced lenses are designed to address specific eye conditions and provide improved vision correction for those who may not achieve optimal results with traditional lenses.
 

Types of Specialty Contact Lenses

There are several types of specialty contact lenses, each designed for different eye conditions:
 

1. Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are large-diameter, gas-permeable lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). These lenses create a tear-filled reservoir that provides moisture and comfort, making them an excellent choice for individuals with keratoconus, severe dry eye, or irregular corneas.
 

2. Hybrid Contact Lenses

Hybrid lenses combine a gas-permeable center with a soft lens skirt. This design offers the sharp vision of a rigid lens with the comfort of a soft lens. They are ideal for individuals with astigmatism, keratoconus, or those who struggle with traditional gas-permeable lenses.
 

3. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses are small, firm lenses that provide crisp vision by maintaining their shape on the eye. They are beneficial for people with high astigmatism, presbyopia, or corneal irregularities.
 

4. MiSight® Contact Lenses

MiSight® 1 day contact lenses are specifically designed for myopia control in children. These soft, daily disposable lenses help slow the progression of nearsightedness while providing clear vision. They are an excellent option for parents looking to manage their child’s myopia without surgery.
 

5. Multifocal and Bifocal Contact Lenses

These lenses are designed for individuals with presbyopia, a condition that makes it difficult to focus on near objects. Multifocal and bifocal lenses provide clear vision at multiple distances, reducing the need for reading glasses.
 

6. UV-Blocking Contact Lenses

UV-blocking contact lenses provide an added layer of protection against harmful ultraviolet rays. While they do not replace sunglasses, they help shield the cornea and other sensitive structures in the eye from UV exposure. These lenses are beneficial for individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors and want to reduce their risk of UV-related eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
 

Who Needs Specialty Contact Lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are recommended for individuals with:

• Keratoconus – A progressive condition where the cornea thins and becomes cone-shaped, leading to distorted vision.

• Severe Dry Eye Syndrome – Standard contact lenses may worsen dryness, whereas specialty lenses like scleral lenses can provide moisture and comfort.

• Astigmatism – While standard toric lenses exist, some people require custom-designed lenses for better stability and clarity.

• Corneal Irregularities – Conditions such as post-surgical complications or corneal scarring can make traditional lenses ineffective.

• High Myopia or Hyperopia – Individuals with extreme prescriptions may benefit from specialty lenses that provide better visual correction.

• Presbyopia – As the eye ages, multifocal lenses help maintain clear vision at all distances.

• Myopia in Children – MiSight® contact lenses help slow the progression of nearsightedness in kids.

• Outdoor Exposure – People who frequently spend time in the sun can benefit from UV-blocking contact lenses.
   

What Sets City Eye Optometry Apart?

At City Eye Optometry, we take a personalized approach to eye care, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible vision solutions tailored to their unique needs. We specialize in fitting specialty contact lenses for patients with complex prescriptions or eye conditions. We use advanced diagnostic technology to assess eye health and ensure optimal lens fit and comfort. 
 

Beyond our expertise, we prioritize patient education and long-term eye health, guiding each individual through their options and providing ongoing support. Whether you're managing myopia, keratoconus, or presbyopia, you can trust City Eye Optometry to provide cutting-edge solutions with exceptional care and attention to detail.
 

If you’ve been struggling with standard contact lenses, schedule an eye exam with City Eye Optometry to explore specialty contact lens options. Visit any of our convenient locations in Bellingham and Brockton in Massachusetts, or Vernon and Middletown in Connecticut. Call (978)-208-2390 to book an appointment today.