Contact Lenses FAQs
While many people know contact lenses can help correct vision, some may have questions about the lenses available and how to care for them properly. The optometry team at Elio’s Optical Vision Center in Miami, FL, is here to answer frequently asked questions about contact lenses to empower you with the knowledge necessary to ensure healthy eyes and vision.
What Are the Different Types of Contacts?
Contact lenses can come in several types that differ based on their material, replacement schedule, and how frequently you wear them. Soft contact lenses are the most common and are relatively easy to wear and care for. Rigid gas-permeable lenses are less comfortable than soft lenses but are more durable and can provide sharper vision. You can also get disposable and extended-wear contacts based on your lifestyle and preferences. Other contact lenses include scleral, hybrid, toric, multifocal, and colored lenses.
What Is the Process for Getting Contact Lenses?
Acquiring contact lenses starts with contacting an optometrist near you and scheduling a contact lens exam. If you are a candidate for contact lenses, your optometrist will take detailed eye measurements, recommend the best lens type, and have you try several pairs during an office visit. Our optometry team will provide instructions for inserting, handling, and sterilizing your contact lenses before sending you home with a trial pair for one or two weeks. You can begin your prescription once we confirm your contacts fit comfortably and improve your vision accurately.
Do I Need to Wear Contact Lenses Every Day?
Extended-wear contact lenses are thicker and take longer for your eyes to become accustomed to them, so they must be worn daily or nearly every day. Soft lenses are less intrusive, meaning you can wear them intermittently. Athletes may use eyeglasses daily and soft lenses while training or for competitions. Talk with your optometrist to determine how often you should wear contact lenses.
Can I Wear My Contact Lenses While Sleeping?
You should not wear contact lenses while sleeping. Wearing contacts overnight can increase your risk of corneal infections significantly. Overnight use can also reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches your cornea, causing severe dryness and irritation.
Is There a Minimum Age for Children to Wear Contact Lenses?
While there is no minimum age for contact lens use for children, your child should wait until they display the maturity to handle contact lenses. The key to wearing contact lenses is not a child's age but their ability to practice proper hygiene and follow the instructions for using their contact lenses.
Get a Contact Lens Exam Near You at Elio's Optical Vision Center in Miami, FL
If you are looking for contact lenses near you to correct your vision, contact Elio's Optical Vision Center in Miami, FL. Our optometry team can perform a contact lens exam and determine the best lenses to help you see clearly and comfortably. Call us at (305) 649-4011 to schedule an appointment.
