What Should I Expect When Wearing Specialty Contact Lenses for the First Time?

Whether you’re switching from glasses or trying contacts for the first time due to a specific eye condition, specialty lenses offer unique benefits that go beyond standard soft contacts. At Lifetime Eyecare, we’re here to guide you through the adjustment period and ensure your transition is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Understanding Specialty Contact Lenses

Specialty contact lenses are custom-designed to address more complex vision issues such as keratoconus, high astigmatism, dry eye, or irregular corneas. Unlike standard lenses, these are crafted with advanced materials and tailored measurements to provide improved vision, comfort, and eye health.
 

Types of specialty lenses include:
 

• Scleral Lenses: Larger lenses that rest on the white of the eye (sclera) and vault over the cornea.

• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: Smaller, durable lenses that offer crisp vision for irregular corneas.

• Hybrid Lenses: Combine a rigid center with a soft outer skirt for both clarity and comfort.

• Ortho-K Lenses: Worn overnight to reshape the cornea and correct vision during the day.

What to Expect During the First Few Days

The sensation of specialty lenses can be unfamiliar at first, especially if you’re used to glasses or have never worn contacts. Some patients describe it as a “presence” in the eye, which gradually becomes less noticeable with consistent wear.
 

Your eye doctor may recommend wearing your lenses for a limited number of hours each day and gradually increasing wear time. This helps your eyes adapt comfortably and reduces the risk of dryness or irritation.
 

Handling specialty lenses may feel intimidating at first. You’ll receive training on how to properly insert, remove, and clean your lenses. Proper hygiene is essential to prevent eye infections and maintain lens performance.
 

Specialty lenses require careful monitoring and adjustments. You’ll likely have a few follow-up visits to fine-tune the fit and ensure your eyes are healthy. These visits are key to long-term comfort and success.
 

Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Stick to the wear schedule provided by your eye doctor.

• Always wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses.

• Use the recommended cleaning solutions - never water or saliva.

• Report any persistent discomfort, redness, or vision changes right away.

Ensuring Optimal Vision and Eye Health 

Wearing specialty contact lenses for the first time is a unique experience, one that comes with an adjustment period but often leads to life-changing visual clarity. At Lifetime Eyecare, our experienced optometrists are here to support you every step of the way with personalized fittings, education, and care.
 

If you’re considering specialty contact lenses, schedule an eye exam with Lifetime Eyecare to learn more about your options. Visit our office in Newton, North Carolina, or call (828) 731-2717 to book an appointment today.