Contact Lenses in North Andover MA
If you need vision correction but prefer not to wear eyeglasses all the time, contact lenses in North Andover MA could be the perfect solution. At our North Andover optometry office, we provide a wide range of contact lenses, and our skilled eye care professionals can help you find the ideal pair, customized for your needs.
Are Contacts Right For You?
Determining whether contact lenses are the right choice for you involves considering various factors related to your lifestyle, vision needs, and personal preferences. Contacts offer the advantage of a wider field of vision and greater freedom compared to glasses, making them ideal for active individuals or those who participate in sports. They also eliminate issues such as fogging and slipping, which can be a common nuisance with glasses. However, contact lenses require a commitment to proper hygiene and care to prevent infections and ensure eye health.
Before deciding on contact lenses, it's essential to consult with one of our top-rated eye care professionals who can assess your eye health, prescription, and suitability for contacts. They will provide guidance on the different types of lenses available while considering your specific needs and lifestyle.
Contact Lens Options in North Andover MA
There are many types of contact lenses to choose from, and your eye care provider will consider your lifestyle and vision requirements to recommend the best lenses for you.
Here are some popular types of contact lenses:
- Hard Contact Lenses: These rigid gas permeable lenses allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea, maintaining their shape on the eye. They are often recommended to slow the progression of nearsightedness in younger individuals.
- Soft Contact Lenses: Known for their comfort, soft lenses are less likely to "pop out" and are suitable for correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
- Disposable Soft Contact Lenses: Designed for short-term use to minimize allergic reactions or bacterial infections. They are also ideal for children who might not be diligent in cleaning their lenses.
- Scleral Contact Lenses: Scleral contact lenses are larger than conventional contact lenses. They are large-diameter gas permeable lenses which are designed to vault over the entire surface of the eye, and they rest on the sclera, otherwise known as the “white” part of the eye.Scleral contact lenses essentially replace the irregularly shaped cornea with a perfectly smooth optical surface to correct vision problems caused by keratoconus, a high amount of astigmatism, and other corneal irregularities. Since scleral contact lenses rest on the sclera, which is a less sensitive part of the eye, they can also be more comfortable for people who have dry eye disease.
One option Dr. Patti A. Richard recommends for patients with keratoconus is ClearKone lenses for keratoconus by SynergEyes, an FDA-cleared hybrid contact lens specifically designed for the treatment of keratoconus and other corneal irregularities. This hybrid contact lens combines the best of both worlds – the crisp vision of a GP contact lens with the all-day comfort and convenience of a soft lens. Learn more about SynergEyes!
- Extended Wear Contact Lenses: These can be worn continuously for up to a week, including while sleeping, due to their high oxygen permeability. They require weekly deep cleaning.
- Daily Wear Contact Lenses: Worn during the day and removed at night for cleaning. These lenses last until their designated expiration date, after which they should be replaced.
- Colored Contact Lenses: Used to enhance or change the color of the iris, these lenses require the same care as regular prescription lenses. Many brands offer colored options.
Need a Prescription?
We provide comprehensive eye exams in North Andover MA, where our eye care providers will not only assess your visual acuity but also evaluate your overall eye health and function.
10 Common Questions About Contact Lenses in North Andover MA
Contact lenses are a popular alternative to eyeglasses, but many people have questions about their use, care, and benefits. Here are ten common questions about contact lenses:
What types of contact lenses are available?
Are contact lenses safe to wear?
How do I know which contact lenses are right for me?
Can I sleep with my contact lenses in?
How often should I replace my contact lenses?
How should I clean and store my contact lenses?
Can contact lenses correct astigmatism?
What should I do if my contact lens feels uncomfortable?
Can children wear contact lenses?
Do I still need glasses if I wear contact lenses?
By understanding these common questions about contact lenses, you can make informed decisions about your vision correction options and maintain healthy, comfortable eyes.
