What Contact Lenses Are Right for You?

How can I use an FSA for Contact Lenses or Eye Care?

Did you know you can buy contact lenses with your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) You sure can! And, you can get contact lens care (lens cases, contact lens solution, etc), as well. If you wear glasses, there are other eye care items you can purchase with your FSA. Vision exams and treatments would also be covered with an FSA. Learn about all eye care expenses on our Eligibility List.

Now, let's get back to exploring options for the right fit...

There are many components to consider in choosing the right contact lenses for you. A good first step is to figure out the top priorities for you when it comes to contact lenses. Then speak with your doctor about what kinds or brands of contacts fit in best with your needs.

If your top priority is:

Sharp Vision

Gas permeable contact lenses (RGP or GP lenses) are rigid lenses made of durable plastic that transmit more oxygen to the eye than traditional soft contact lenses. GP lenses provide better vision because they have a hard, polished surface.

Comfort

Traditional soft contact lenses provide the best comfort. It’s easy to put them in whenever you need to and they will adjust quickly to become . This contrasts with the harder GP lenses that require a period of adaptation (can be several weeks) before they’re comfortable.

If comfort is your primary consideration, conventional soft contact lenses usually are your best choice. Most people find soft lenses are immediately comfortable, whereas gas permeable lenses usually require a period of adaptation (that can be several weeks) before the lenses are perfectly comfortable.

Durability

GP lenses last longer because they’re harder and don’t rip as easily. It helps that they have a smaller diameter. Because they last longer, sometimes there are cost benefits to using GP lenses over time.

Astigmatism Compatibility

If you have astigmatism, GP lenses or special soft lenses called toric contact lenses are usually the best choice. These lenses have special design features that enable the lens to rotate to the proper orientation on the cornea to correct blurred vision. Hybrid lenses are also a good choice since they combine both the sharp vision of GP lenses at the center and the comfort of soft lenses surrounding.

Convenience

If you don’t want to take extra time with lens care and have to periodically pick up new solution at the store, daily disposable contact lenses are your best bet. Throw them away after each use and simply put in a new pair the next morning.

If you are over age 40 and experience blurred near vision when reading, sewing or working at the computer, the best lenses for you may be bifocal contacts or multifocal contact lenses. Bifocal contacts lenses have two prescriptions in the same lens. Multifocal contact lenses have a range of powers in each lens.

Learn more viahttp://www.allaboutvision.com/contacts/faq/right-contacts.htm