- Although the idea of contact lenses may date all the way back to Leonardo da Vinci, the famous painter and inventor himself would marvel at the invention we now know as contact lenses. Throughout the years, contact lenses have undergone several transformations. In 1836, an optometrist named William Feinbloom produced the first American-made contact lenses and also introduced the use of plastic for lenses. After continued advancements, in 1971 the soft contact lens became available for commercial use in the United States.
- There are two types of contact lenses. The hard or rigid lens is a small, thin lens that fits over the cornea of the eye. Flexible lenses are slightly larger and made of a fluid-absorbing plastic. They are more comfortable to wear and are generally more likely to be prescribed by eye doctors than hard lenses.
- The development of disposable lenses has made wearing contacts even more convenient. As the name implies, disposable contact lenses can be worn and thrown away. Disposable lenses are more expensive but they are comfortable to wear and reduce the risk of infection. Although these lenses can be worn to sleep, it is still recommended that they be taken out before going to bed to further prevent the risk of infection.
- Gas permeable lenses are small, flexible plastic lenses designed to fit your eye. They actually float on the tear film in front of the cornea. Gas permeable lenses allow oxygen to reach the cornea. They are more durable, last longer and are able to better correct certain vision problems.
- Extended wear contact lenses allow you to wear your contacts for an extended period of time without having to take them out and clean them. There are various types of extended wear lenses, which allow continuous wear for up to 1 week, 2 weeks and 30 days. Although continuous wear lenses do offer sharp vision with more convenience, there is always the possibility that infection could occur and a cleaning solution should be kept on hand in the event that the lenses need cleaning.
- Although most people wear contact lenses to correct vision problems, contact lenses are also used for cosmetic purposes in some instances. They can be purchased in tinted colors to give the appearance of a different eye color. There are also specialty contact lenses made to give the appearance of a cat's eye or other dramatic effects. Most cosmetic lenses are available for prescription wear as well as simply for cosmetic purposes.
- Contact lenses do offer an alternative for those who do not like the look or feel of eyeglasses. They are also a good option for people who tend to misplace or break their glasses; however, contact lenses are not the choice for everyone. Some people actually prefer eyeglasses. It is simply a matter of personal choice. Contact lens wearers will have more frequent vision exams than those who wear eyeglasses. This is particularly important for people wearing disposable or extended wear contacts. Contact lens wearers are more susceptible to infections that could cause damage to the eyes. A few issues that have been noted with contact lenses include allergies, infections and dry eyes, but this is not the case with all contact lens wearers nor should it discourage anyone from considering contact lenses. Eyeglasses are normally less costly than contact lenses. It is difficult to present an average price for contact lenses since the cost varies according to the prescription needed as well as the type of lens chosen.
