If you wear contact lenses or are considering making the switch from glasses, you might think that all contacts are the same. But finding the perfect fit isn’t as simple as picking a prescription off the shelf. For patients with unique eye conditions such as astigmatism, dry eyes, or keratoconus, working with a contact lens specialist is essential to ensure comfort, clarity, and eye health. Here’s why specialized care is crucial when selecting custom contact lenses.
The Importance of a Contact Lens Specialist
Unlike standard optometrists, contact lens specialists have advanced training in fitting and prescribing lenses for complex eye conditions. A poorly fitted lens can lead to discomfort, blurry vision, or even damage to your cornea. A specialist will assess your eye shape, tear production, and unique vision needs to find the best solution for you.
Many off-the-shelf lenses cater to common prescriptions but may not provide the precise fit required for individuals with specialized needs. A contact lens specialist ensures that your lenses conform perfectly to your eyes, preventing issues such as lens movement, dryness, and discomfort.
Custom Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea has an irregular shape, making it difficult for standard soft lenses to stay in place. If you’ve tried standard contact lenses and experienced blurriness or instability, you may need custom contact lenses designed specifically for astigmatism.
A contact lens specialist can prescribe toric lenses, which correct astigmatism by staying properly aligned with your cornea. These lenses have different thicknesses in specific areas to keep them from rotating on your eye, ensuring sharp and stable vision. If toric lenses don’t provide a comfortable fit, our eye care team may suggest rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses or hybrid lenses, which offer even more precise correction.
Managing Dry Eyes with Specialty Contact Lenses
For patients with dry eyes, wearing contacts can be frustrating. Many standard lenses draw moisture away from the eye, exacerbating dryness and irritation. Fortunately, a contact lens specialist can recommend options that support hydration and comfort.
Scleral lenses, for example, are an excellent choice for dry eye sufferers. These large-diameter lenses vault over the cornea, creating a reservoir of moisture between the lens and the eye’s surface. By working with a specialist, you can explore lens materials and coatings that help maintain hydration and keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day.
Keratoconus Contact Lenses for Optimal Vision
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape, leading to distorted vision. Standard soft lenses are often ineffective for keratoconus, requiring patients to seek keratoconus contact lenses designed for their unique corneal shape.
A contact lens specialist can fit you with scleral lenses, which provide a smooth optical surface and enhance vision clarity. These lenses also prevent irritation by not directly touching the sensitive cornea. Because keratoconus can worsen over time, working with a specialist ensures your prescription and lens fit are regularly updated to maintain clear vision.
Find the Best Contact Lenses in Scottsdale
If you live in Scottsdale and struggle with contact lens discomfort, blurry vision, or an eye condition like astigmatism or keratoconus, visiting a contact lens specialist is the best step toward improved vision. At a specialized practice offering contact lenses in Scottsdale, you’ll receive expert guidance on the best lens type for your eyes, ensuring maximum comfort and clarity.
Whether you need custom contact lenses, keratoconus contact lenses, or specialized lenses for dry eyes, a contact lens specialist ensures you get the best possible fit. Instead of settling for discomfort or unclear vision, consult an expert to find the perfect lenses tailored to your needs.