Are Extended-Wear Contact Lenses Safe?

As with all contact lenses, wearers must follow their eye doctor’s instructions regarding proper wear and care. While not for everyone, extended-wear contact lenses are safe when worn correctly. If you need a vision exam, have questions about extended-wear contact lenses, or need an optometrist near you in the Houston, TX, area, consider our Executive Eye Care team.

How Do Extended-Wear Lenses Work?

Our corneas need exposure to the air to remain healthy. Earlier generations of contacts and extended-wear lenses might not have allowed enough oxygen to reach the corneas for some people, potentially irritating the eyes. The current generation of extended-wear contacts is made with silicone hydrogel, allowing the contacts to “breathe” and oxygen to reach the corneas. The change enables extended-wear contacts to be worn for a longer time, even while sleeping. However, many eye doctors recommend following a “flexible” wear schedule in which patients remove their contacts based on their activities and eye comfort.

Risks Associated with Extended-Wear Contacts

Extended-wear contacts continue to bring higher risks of infection so the secret is to be smart in their use. Extended-wear contacts can be vital for those in professions that require clear vision immediately upon awakening and are highly convenient for those who enjoy camping and many other activities. Nevertheless, taking advantage of their extended wearability when needed while taking them out at night when it is convenient is often a good tradeoff.

Alternatives to Extended-Wear Contacts

Your optometrist will confirm whether you are a candidate for contact lenses during your eye exam. Extended-wear contacts do not work for everyone, so eyeglasses, daily disposable lenses, and LASIK or PRK are valuable alternatives for many who wear contacts. Nevertheless, if your eye doctor offers a prescription for extended-wear lenses, you can wear them confidently, provided you follow their wear and care instructions.

Get an Eye Exam, Vision Exam, Contacts, Eyeglasses, Optometry Care, and Eye Doctor Services from an Optometrist Near You

If you are looking for an optometrist and live in or near Houston, TX, consider our team at Executive Eye Care. Our optometry team will identify the lenses to help you see clearly and comfortably. Call us today at (713) 225-2600 for an eye exam, vision exam, contacts, eyeglasses, optometry care, and eye doctor services from an optometrist near you.