Contact lenses are a convenient and affordable option for vision correction. Today, patients are finding that contact lenses are becoming more and more comfortable. This higher comfort level can be attributed to advancements in a key material used in making the lenses. Traditional lenses are composed of a material called hydrogel, which allows for greater lens flexibility than hard contact lenses. Hydrogel is made up of a form of plastic which contains water. The problem with this type of lens is that oxygen cannot penetrate the plastic component of the lens, causing the eye to become dry and irritated during prolonged wear. A new type of lens incorporates silicone into the traditional hydrogel lens, and the result is gaining popularity among Optometric professionals.
The permeability of silicone is very high, which allows more oxygen to the eye through the silicone hydrogel lenses. One doctor estimates that the oxygen flow to the eye is six to seven times greater with these lenses than traditional lenses. Since the silicone allows more oxygen to the eye, new lenses can contain less water, making them less susceptible to dryness from prolonged wear. Some of these lenses are referred to as “continuous wear” lenses and can be worn continuously for up to thirty days. At the end of the thirty day period, the lenses are discarded and a fresh pair can be worn for another thirty days without accumulating significant build up on the lens. More commonly, lenses are approved for continuous weekly wear and a few are meant for daily wear.
Currently, researchers are exploring methods of preventing eye infections and inflammation associated with contact lens use through the development of antimicrobial technology. The FDA has approved the use of silver compounds combined with a special solution to reduce the risk of microbial contamination. Using this method releases silver ions which kill micro bacteria that may have adhered to the lens during wear.
There are an estimated 10 million contact lens wearers worldwide. As lenses continue to gain popularity around the globe, manufacturers will continue to improve on their products. Lenses are becoming safer, more comfortable and simpler to care for by the day. The future of contact lenses looks promising for all patients in need of vision correction
Buying contact lenses online is for many a more affordable solution than the average high street optician. Lower costs allow online suppliers of contact lenses to offer lower prices than many high street retailers. You can make sure you get the best price for contact lenses by comparing prices at our site