Which Type of Specialty Contact Lenses is Best for Your Vision Needs?

When it comes to vision correction, one size does not fit all. If traditional soft contact lenses haven’t worked for you or if you have specific vision needs, specialty contact lenses may be the ideal solution. At Ohana Eye Care, we offer a variety of advanced lens options tailored to meet your unique visual challenges and lifestyle preferences. Let’s explore some of the most popular types of specialty contact lenses and how they can help you see your best.
 

Why Traditional Lenses Sometimes Fall Short

Traditional contact lenses are a popular option for many people, but they aren’t always the best fit for every eye. Individuals with irregular corneas, severe dry eye, high prescriptions, or specific vision conditions like keratoconus may find that standard soft lenses don’t provide the clarity, comfort, or stability they need. These lenses are designed for average eye shapes and tear films, so they may not sit properly on more complex corneal surfaces, leading to poor vision, discomfort, or lens displacement. In such cases, specialty contact lenses can offer a more tailored and effective solution for long-term visual success.
 

Hybrid Lenses

Hybrid lenses combine the clarity of a rigid gas-permeable (RGP) center with the comfort of a soft lens skirt. They’re often recommended for patients with irregular corneas, such as those with keratoconus or corneal scarring, but they’re also a great option for anyone seeking sharper vision than soft lenses typically provide. Hybrid lenses offer excellent stability, making them a reliable choice for active individuals who want both comfort and clarity.
 

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger than standard lenses and rest on the sclera (the white part of your eye), creating a smooth optical surface over the cornea. These lenses are ideal for patients with dry eye, keratoconus, post-surgical corneas, or other corneal irregularities. Their design allows for a fluid reservoir beneath the lens, which can provide moisture throughout the day - a big benefit in Arizona’s dry climate.
 

Multifocal and Bifocal Lenses

If you’re over 40 and beginning to experience presbyopia, multifocal or bifocal contact lenses can help you see clearly at all distances without needing reading glasses. These lenses are designed to allow seamless transitions between near, intermediate, and far vision, perfect for reading, working on a computer, and driving.
 

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, temporarily correcting your vision so you can see clearly without glasses or contacts during the day. These are especially popular for children and teens with myopia (nearsightedness), as they can also slow the progression of myopia over time. Adults who are not good candidates for LASIK or simply prefer a non-surgical option also find Ortho-K to be a convenient solution.
 

Find the Right Fit at Ohana Eye Care

Choosing the right specialty contact lens depends on your specific eye health, visual demands, and lifestyle. Dr. Alice Kwok takes a personalized approach to your vision care. After a comprehensive eye exam, she’ll recommend the lens type that best aligns with your needs - whether it’s the stability of a scleral lens, the all-day comfort of a hybrid lens, or the freedom of going glasses-free with Ortho-K.
 

If you’re struggling with your current lenses, schedule a contact lens exam at Ohana Eye Care and discover which specialty lens is right for you. Visit our office in Peoria, Arizona, or call (623) 583-8388 to book an appointment today.