Close-up of a contact lens resting on a case lid. At Eye. Optometry, we offer expert fittings and top-quality contact lenses for every lifestyle.

Thinking About Contact Lenses? Here’s What You Should Know

Contact lenses have become a popular alternative to glasses. Whether it’s for convenience during daily activities or simply for aesthetic reasons, soft lenses offer comfort, flexibility, and a range of options to suit different vision needs. Thanks to the wide variety of soft lenses available today, from contact lenses to specialty types for conditions like astigmatism or dry eyes, there’s a solution to fit your needs.

Types of Contact Lenses 

When choosing contact lenses, it’s helpful to understand two key aspects: modality and design. 

  • Modality refers to how long you wear each pair before replacing it - daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. 
  • Design refers to the optical features of the lens - such as toric for astigmatism or multifocal for near and distance vision 

These aren’t either-or options. Many designs are available in different modalities. For example you can get daily disposable lenses in toric, multifocal, or even multifocal toric designs. 

At eye. Optometry, our optometrists and in-house contact lens fitter can help you find a combination that fits both your prescription and lifestyle, even if you’ve had your eye exam elsewhere.

Choosing the Right Modality for Your Routine

Your lens replacement schedule can impact comfort, convenience, and cost. Here’s a breakdown:

Daily Disposable Lenses: 

  • Worn once and thrown away, fresh pair every day
  • Ultra hygienic, ideal for allergy-prone or dry eyes 
  • Great for sports, travel, and occasional wear 
  • No cleaning or storage required 
  • Available in toric, multifocal, and multifocal toric designs 

Bi-Weekly & Monthly Lenses 

  • Reusable for 2-4 weeks with proper care 
  • More cost-effective for regular wearers 
  • Require daily cleaning and lens solution 
  • Also available in a wide range of designs 

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for Your Needs 

When choosing the right lenses, it’s important to factor in more than just your prescription. Comfort, eye health, and daily habits also play a role.

  • Contact Lenses for Astigmatism (also known as toric lenses): specially designed to correct irregular curvature in the cornea. These lenses stay stable in the eye and provide consistent clarity. 
  • Multifocal & Progressive Lenses: Help see you clearly at multiple distances - near, far, and everything in between - without switching between glasses 
  • Multifocal Toric Lens: Ideal for those with astigmatism and age-related vision changes
  • Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes: Use moisture-retaining materials to keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day, especially in dry climates or during long screen time. Still, if dryness persists, it might be helpful to explore dry eye treatment options alongside contact lenses. 
  • Daily Contact Lenses: Compared to bi-weekly, or monthly lenses, daily lenses eliminate the need for cleaning and reduce the risk of irritation or infection. Great for people with sensitive eyes, those just starting out with contacts, or seeking a low-maintenance routine. 

Contact Lens Maintenance and Care

How should you take care of your contact lenses? Taking proper care of your contact lenses is essential to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear. 

Always use contact lens solution to clean and disinfect your lenses (unless you're wearing disposable contact lenses). Look for high-quality contact lens cleaner that removes protein deposits and preserves lens hydration. 

If you notice irritation during the day or feel your eyes getting dry, contact lenses eye drops can help restore comfort. 

Our optometrists can recommend a proper cleaning routine and drops based on your lens material and how often you wear them. 

New to Lenses?

If you’re new to contact lenses, it’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous about putting them in for the first time. That’s why at eye. Optometry, we offer proper training sessions with our dedicated contact lens technician.

Because contact lenses are considered medical devices, proper insertion, removal, and hygiene are essential for maintaining eye health and avoiding complications. Our team ensures you feel confident and safe by teaching you the correct techniques and answering all your questions

Conclusion

Finding the right pair of contact lenses is about more than just correcting your vision, it’s about ensuring that the daily experience is comfortable and suitable for your lifestyle. Whether you need contact lenses to address specific concerns like astigmatism or solely for aesthetic purposes, there’s a soft lens that can work for you. 

At eye. Optometry, we specialize in fitting and prescribing soft contact lenses based on your needs. 

Book your appointment today. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Can I wear contact lenses if I have astigmatism? 

Yes! Contact lenses for astigmatism are designed to fit the unique shape of an astigmatic eye and stay in place for clear and consistent vision. 

Can I switch between glasses and contact lenses?  

Yes, many people alternative between the two depending on their day. Your prescription may differ slightly between glasses and contacts, so always check with your optometrist. 

Are contact lenses safe for dry eyes? 

Yes. Many contact lenses for dry eyes are made with materials that help retain moisture. If you experience dryness while wearing contacts, you can also use eye drops specially designed to help with dry eyes.

At eye. Optometry, we also offer dedicated dry eye treatments that can help improve long-term comfort and make contact lens wear more manageable. Learn more about our dry eye services here.

How long can I wear contact lenses each day? 

Most soft contact lenses are designed for daily wear and can work for about 8-16 hours, depending on the brand and your eyes’ tolerance. If your eyes start to feel dry or irritated, it’s best to remove them and use contact lens’ eye drops or switch to glasses for the rest of the day. 

Are contact lenses safe for sports or physical activity? 

Yes. One of the biggest advantages of soft contact lenses is that they stay in place during movement and offer better peripheral vision than glasses. They’re ideal for sports, gym workouts, and active lifestyles. 

How do I know if my contact lenses are inside out? 

Place the lens on the tip of your finger and look at the shape: 

  • A proper lens will form a perfect “U” shape. 
  • If the edges flare outward like a bowl, it’s inside out. 

Wearing your lens out isn’t harmful, but it may feel uncomfortable and affect vision clarity. 

Are daily disposable lenses better than monthly lenses? 

It depends on your preferences. Contact lenses daily vs monthly is a common comparison - daily lenses are more convenient and hygienic, while monthly lenses are more cost-effective if you wear contacts every day.

Learn more about our eye services and treatments.