Although many people have vision problems, very few know about the rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses. Also called oxygen permeable lenses, RGP lenses are modern technology contact lenses. The lenses are more rigid, durable, and allow for clearer vision compared to regular soft contacts. Users also find that in the long term, RDP lenses cost less than soft contact lenses.

Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses Are Superior Quality

The material used to make RGP lenses is a form of plastic that is firm but permeable. The lens allows oxygen to pass through it to the cornea and the eye surface, which lets the eye breathe. These characteristics make RGP lenses comfortable, safe, and healthy to wear all day.

Since the material is hard and inflexible, it stays put when you blink. Soft contacts may slide around the eye pushed by the eyelids, making them uncomfortable to wear. Soft contacts may also stick to the upper eyelids when they lose adherence to the cornea. You may have to keep removing them and laying them back on the eye. RGP lenses have better suction and stick to the cornea even when you cry.

Who Can Wear RGP Contact Lenses?

RGP contact lenses are ideal for persons with severe hyperopia or myopia. They also help to rectify astigmatism, keratoconus, and presbyopia. The doctor may also prescribe RGP contact lenses if you still need visual aid after refractive surgery.

Before the optometrist prescribes RGP contact lenses, he must first rule out soft contacts. If your condition would improve with stronger lenses, only then does the optometrist recommend the RGP contact lenses. He conducts a contact lens test and offers you a range of RGP lens options.

Fitting RGP contact lenses can be challenging. If they do not fit properly, they may cause an eye infection, vision problems, and ulcers. Ensure that the optometrist has had experience fitting the RGP contact lenses. It is also vital that you set aside enough time for the fitting and the adaptation period. Do not be in a rush because the process takes time. For example, if you plan to leave town in a week, schedule your appointment for when you return.

Once they are fitted, ensure that you do not miss the follow-up assessment. The optometrist will examine how your eye is doing and whether your vision has improved.

Visit an Optometrist

A visit to an eye care practitioner should help determine whether you are a candidate for RGP contact lenses. Avoid ordering the lenses online. Unless you have lens specifications based on some lenses you owned before, online purchases can be problematic. For example, if a lens breaks and you only need a replacement, you may use your prescription information to order a replica online. Under any other circumstance, insist on a physical fitting with an experienced optometrist. Visiting a clinic also makes going for follow-up appointments easier.

If you have special requirements regarding your vision, you may be a good candidate for rigid gas permeable contact lenses. Visit Sturgeons Optical in Barboursville, West Virginia. You can also call 304-733-0101 to book your appointment.