Contact lenses are thin plastic discs that help deal with vision problems like astigmatism, myopia, and hyperopia. They are placed directly over the eye’s cornea. Such lenses require a prescription from the eye care provider to avoid the risk of injuries. An ophthalmologist will thoroughly examine the patient’s eyes and provide proper instructions on their use and care. Keep reading to learn more about the types of contact lenses and how much they cost.

Types of contact lenses

Contact lenses are distinguished into various types according to the material, wear schedule, replacement schedule, and purpose of use. So, let us detail them here:

Lens material
Based on the material used, lenses are divided into two kinds-

• Soft Lenses- These lenses use flexible and soft plastics that let oxygen pass through the eye’s cornea. Soft contacts are the most popular options. Furthermore, such lenses provide better comfort and UV protection. However, they should be disinfected carefully before wearing.
• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP)- This contact lens is more durable and rigid than the soft type. These types usually offer clearer and crisper vision. RGP contact lenses are less expensive, convenient, and less likely to tear. However, they may take longer to adjust and require a more complex disinfection and cleaning process.

Wear schedule
Depending on the wearing schedule, lenses can be classified into two-

• Daily Wear- The daily wear contact lenses are not to be worn overnight. They are only for daytime use. Removing the lens each night and washing them with the cleaning solution is important. It is pertinent to note that these should not be worn while sleeping as they may lead to severe eye infections.

• Extended Wear- These contact lenses can be worn overnight. They can be used for one to six nights or up to thirty days. This contact lens is made of soft plastics, facilitating oxygen passage through the cornea.

Replacement schedule
Under this category, there are two kinds of contact lenses, which are-

• Daily Disposable- The daily disposable contact lenses are used for just one day and thrown away by the end of the day. A brand-new pair must be used each morning. Wearing them for more than one day may lead to severe eye complications and discomfort.
• Planned Replacement- Some soft lenses may be referred to as disposable. But they may be used for many days and must be removed at night. The replacement schedules for these lenses are between seven and thirty days. Therefore, one mustn’t wear them for more than the suggested period.

Special contact lenses – Types

Special contact lenses help correct vision problems, enhance eye colors and treat certain eye diseases.

• Hybrid- These contacts combine soft lenses and rigid gas permeable. The outer part uses soft contact lens material, and the center uses a rigid gas permeable. It provides comfort and a clearer vision. These contact lenses are specifically designed for people with irregular corneas.
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)- These lenses are used to correct the vision temporarily and are used by nearsighted individuals. They are usually worn while sleeping or as per the prescribed schedule by an eye care provider.
• Scleral- These lenses are set on the sclera (white of the eye), not the cornea. Scleral lenses are usually prescribed for people with damaged cornea or dry eye conditions.
• Decorative- Some individuals use the contact lens to change or highlight the color of their eyes. These come with or without vision correction properties. However, a prescription is required for decorative contact lenses with power.

Cost of different types of contact lenses

The cost of contact lenses depends on factors like the type and insurance. Thus, the general price range may be enumerated below-

1. Daily Disposables- Between $35 and $70 (every 90-count box)
2. 1-2 Week Disposables- Between $35 and $80 (each six-count box)
3. Monthly Disposables- Between $40 and $100 (every six-count box)
4. Yearly Soft Lenses (Conventional)- Between $50 and $ 80 (each two-count box)
5. Rigid Gas / Permeable Lenses- The price varies as these are custom-made for each patient’s eyes.

Contact lenses are mostly prescription eye care devices that help correct many vision problems. They provide more natural vision than conventional glasses and move with your eye, reducing the chances of blocks to your vision. They are required to be disinfected daily. When buying contact lenses, the best options must be chosen only after an eye examination done by an ophthalmologist. Therefore, it is necessary to attend annual eye tests to monitor one’s eye health and the contacts’ condition. If the lenses are not handled carefully and maintained regularly, they may lead to severe complications in the eye.