Comparing
Different
Contact Lenses

Soft contact lenses are among the most popular choices available. Made from hydrogel, a soft, water-containing plastic material, these lenses are extremely comfortable and easy to adapt to. They offer immediate comfort to new wearers and are widely chosen due to their affordability and flexibility. With soft contacts, patients often enjoy clear vision along with the freedom to engage in many daily activities without the worry of discomfort.

Silicone hydrogel lenses have gained popularity as an advanced form of soft lens. These lenses are designed with more pores for enhanced oxygen transmission to the cornea, which supports healthier eyes during extended wear. Although they generally come with a higher price tag compared to standard soft lenses, many patients find that their advanced design makes them a worthwhile investment for long-term eye health. In our practice, our eye doctors always consider these benefits during consultation.

For those looking to change up their style along with correcting vision, colored contact lenses provide a unique blend of cosmetics and clarity. These lenses are available in various hues and are specifically engineered to suit both prescription and non-prescription needs. Light-eyed individuals might prefer an enhancement tint to define the edges of the iris, whereas those with darker eyes might choose hazel or opaque options for a natural look. While they tend to be pricier than basic contacts, many patients appreciate the dual benefit of aesthetic enhancement and vision correction.

Rigid Gas Permeable lenses offer a distinct appeal compared to softer alternatives. They are constructed from silicone-containing materials that facilitate high oxygen permeability, an essential factor in maintaining eye health. RGP lenses are custom-fit to each patient’s eyes and often are favored by individuals who require long-term vision correction with stability in their prescription. Given that these lenses are engineered for prolonged wear, they tend to carry a higher price point, but many find the clarity and durability well worth the investment.

Hybrid contact lenses combine the benefits of both soft and RGP lenses. Featuring a central rigid zone that supports clear optics and a peripheral soft area for comfort, these lenses might initially require an adjustment period. However, they are designed specifically to offer the best of both worlds: the comfort of silicone hydrogel materials with the excellent vision quality associated with rigid lenses. While they typically come at a higher cost than average soft lenses, many patients appreciate the enhanced performance once they become accustomed to them.

PMMA contact lenses represent an earlier era in lens technology. Made from a rigid, transparent plastic, these lenses do not allow any oxygen to reach the cornea, resulting in less comfort compared to modern alternatives. Although they are rarely prescribed in modern practice, PMMA lenses serve as an important reference point in a contacts comparison, illustrating how advancements in materials have significantly improved patient comfort and outcomes in contemporary lens options.