What are contact lenses?

Contact lenses are small, thin disks made of various types of plastic material. They fit on the front surface of the eye (the cornea) and they are made to safely correct the same vision conditions that eyeglasses correct.

Are contact lenses for you?

Millions of people today wear contact lenses to help them see clearly. If you need prescription lenses, you could be one of them. With all the lens choices available now, most people can find contacts that give them sharp, comfortable vision without compromising eye health.

General advantages and disadvantages

The chart that follows gives the advantages and disadvantages of specific types of lenses.

General advantages:

• offer good peripheral (side) vision
• reduce visual distortion that may occur with some eyeglasses
• do not steam or fog up
• suited for an active lifestyle
• improve one's appearance

General disadvantages:

• they require more daily care than eyeglasses
• some types require a short adaptation period
• you need to return to your ophthalmologist more often for follow-up to maintain eye health

Learn more about: Contact Lens Types | Contact Care and Handling

Other useful links: Ophthalmology Glossary