Top 4 Types of Specialty Contact Lenses: Which One Is Right for You?

Contact lenses have come a long way from being a simple vision correction tool. While standard soft lenses work well for many people, some individuals need a more specialized approach to address unique eye conditions and vision needs. Specialty contact lenses are custom-designed to provide clear, comfortable vision for those with irregular corneas, presbyopia, or other specific vision challenges.

If you've struggled with traditional contact lenses or are looking for a more tailored vision solution, specialty contact lenses may be the right fit for you. Below, we explore four of the most common types of specialty contact lenses and who can benefit from them.
 

1. Multifocal Contact Lenses

Multifocal lenses are designed for individuals who need vision correction for both near and distance vision, often due to presbyopia—a condition that typically develops with age, making it difficult to focus on close objects. These lenses feature multiple prescription zones, allowing for seamless vision transitions between different distances.
 

Who benefits from multifocal lenses?

• Individuals over 40 experiencing presbyopia

• Those who want an alternative to reading glasses or bifocals

• People who need clear vision at multiple distances without switching eyewear
   

2. Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral lenses are rigid gas-permeable lenses that are larger in diameter than traditional lenses, covering not only the cornea but also extending onto the sclera (the white part of the eye). This creates a smooth, stable surface for vision correction while allowing for a fluid-filled space between the lens and the cornea, which provides extra comfort and hydration.
 

Who benefits from scleral lenses?

• Individuals with keratoconus or irregular corneas

• Those with severe dry eye disease

• Patients who have had corneal transplants or refractive surgery
   

3. Hybrid Contact Lenses

Hybrid lenses combine the best of both worlds: a gas-permeable center for crisp, clear vision and a soft outer skirt for comfort. This design makes them a great choice for people who need the sharp vision of a rigid lens but the ease of wear associated with soft lenses.
 

Who benefits from hybrid lenses?

• Individuals with mild to moderate keratoconus

• Those who struggle with the comfort of rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses

• Patients with irregular corneas who want a balance of clarity and comfort
   

4. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses

Ortho-K lenses are specially designed gas-permeable lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea while you sleep. By morning, the reshaped cornea provides clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. Ortho-K is a popular non-surgical option for managing myopia (nearsightedness).
 

Who benefits from Ortho-K lenses?

• Individuals with mild to moderate myopia

• Children and teenagers needing myopia management

• Adults who want freedom from glasses or contact lenses during the day
   

Which Specialty Contact Lens Is Right for You?

Choosing the right specialty contact lens depends on your specific eye condition, lifestyle, and vision needs. A comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Kanukuntla at Focus On Eyes is the first step in determining the best solution for you. Through advanced diagnostic testing and a personalized consultation, Dr. Kanukuntla will assess your eye health and recommend the most suitable specialty contact lens option for optimal comfort and clarity.
 

Your Vision, Our Priority 

If you've been struggling with traditional contact lenses or have been told you're not a good candidate for them, specialty contact lenses could be the solution. Whether you need multifocal, scleral, hybrid, or Ortho-K lenses, the right fit can transform your vision and improve your daily life.
 

At Focus On Eyes, we are committed to helping you achieve the best vision possible. Schedule an eye exam to find the right specialty contact lens option for your needs. Visit our office in Richardson, Texas, or call (469) 620-2120 to book an appointment today.