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Local opticians serving the Maidstone area
Contact Lenses
New Wearers Guide
Whether you are interested in wearing lenses full time or only occasionally, there are lenses to suit virtually every lifestyle, age group and prescription. At your appointment our Optometrist will discuss your specific requirements and arrange a trial.
What Are The Different Types Of Contact Lenses ?
There are two main types of lenses Soft & Hard. Hard lenses are also known as Gas Permeable.
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SOFT |
HARD GAS PERMEABLE |
| Description |
Large & Floppy – wrap onto the surface covering the whole of the iris |
Small & Hard – float on the surface and are smaller than the iris area. |
| Initial Comfort |
Very Comfortable - hardly felt from the first time they go in |
May take a few days to get used to. Eventually as comfortable as soft. |
| Wearing Schedules |
Wear as frequently or as infrequently as you like |
Usually for Full time use only
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| Disposable Options |
Daily, Weekly or Monthly Replacement |
None - but Frequent Replacement Schemes available for 3, 6 or 12 month replacement |
| Astigmatism Correction |
Low & Moderate astigmatism correctable |
Low, Moderate & High Astigmatism Corrected. Give sharper vision than soft. |
| Multifocal Option |
Yes |
Yes |
 What’s The Best Type For Me ?
The optometrist will perform a series of tests to determine the best type for you. The choice of lens is influenced by:
- The condition of the tears, cornea and eyelids.
- The eyes shape, size and contour
- The prescription strength & type
- Lifestyle factors, occupation, sports and hobbies
What Are Disposable Lenses
Disposable lenses are soft ones which are designed to be thrown away frequently. They can be replaced every day, every two weeks or every month.
Should I Have Disposable Lenses?
Yes- all wearers should change their lenses regularly for health and hygiene reasons. Even if lenses are cleaned scrupulously, they still accumulate deposits which can cause infections and allergies, as they harbour germs. Deposits also affect comfort and reduce the amount of oxygen transmitted.
How Often Should I Change My Lenses?
This depends on factors such as how often you wear them and how fast they deposit.
Can I Wear Contact Lenses If I Have Astigmatis?
Yes – both soft and gas permeable lenses correct astigmatism, even high amounts.
My Eyes Are Sensitive – Can I Wear Contact Lenses?
Due to the wide range of lens materials available, these days most people can wear lenses. Some people with very sensitive eyes opt to wear them only part time for going out or for sports.
I’m Squeamish About My Eyes - Do Lenses Hurt?
Lenses don’t hurt, especially soft. When they go in, they feel just like an eyelash in your eyes. Gas permeable lenses, are felt a bit more initially, but as you wear them the sensation disappears.
Can Contact Lenses Damage The Eyes?
Serious problems only occur if people over wear them or don’t clean them properly. Looked after correctly, lenses are very safe.
I’ve Have Dry Eyes – Can I Still Wear Lenses?
Very severe dry eyes are not suited to lenses, but most people only have mild to moderate dryness. The Optometrist will perform a series of tests to gauge just how dry the eyes are. Certain materials are more suitable for dry eyes, and we will trial you with different types to find the most suitable lens.
Can I Sleep In Lenses?
Yes – although they must be made of an extremely high oxygen transmission material. New lens technology has made it possible to wear them continuously for 30 days and 30 nights.
Can I Wear Lenses While Swimming?
Yes, although daily disposables are really only advised due to the risk of both infection and losing lenses. Supplies of dailies can be purchased specifically for swimming, even if your normal lens type is something else.
I Wear Varifocal Glasses – Can I Wear Contact Lenses?
Yes, varifocal contact lenses are available, as well as a number of other options such as having one eye for distance and the other for reading. A trial will determine the best type of correction for you.
Can Children Wear Lenses?
Children can wear lenses potentially from as young as seven although it depend on each child’s individual maturity and motivation. As long as they are able to insert and remove them confidently and understand the health and hygiene aspects, it is perfectly safe for children to wear lenses either full or part time.
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