Rigid Lenses - The Alternative to Soft Lenses

 

Although soft contacts are most often used, a second, less familiar type of contact lens materials exists: rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, also called oxygen permeable lenses.

In reality, hard lenses are a newer technology than soft lenses, which last longer, are often more effective in improving eyesight, and provide enhanced deposit resistance. Further GP lenses may also be less expensive in the long term than soft lenses. Of course, its best to first discuss with your optometrist to determine if RGPs fit your lifestyle. Our optometry staff can assist you in ascertaining if hard lenses are right for you.

Because an RGP is constructed from inflexible material, it maintains its shape well when you blink, which tends to provide sharper vision than the average soft lens. Furthermore RGPs are particularly durable. Though they will break if stepped on, they don’t easily rip like soft lenses. Also, because they consist of substances that don't contain water, proteins and lipids from your tears won't stick to GPs as readily as they do to soft lenses. Those of you who are extra fussy about vision quality will most likely opt for RGPs.

On the downside, RGPs need to be worn regularly to achieve maximum comfort. Further, some people experience “spectacle blur” with GPs, which is when vision is blurry when the lenses are removed even while wearing glasses. Though the effect is only temporary, it can require full-time GP usage.

If you are considering RGP lenses, be sure to first ask your eye doctor to ascertain if you truly are a candidate. Who knows…hard lenses could be the perfect answer for you!

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