Contact Lenses – Usage and Precautions

‘Eyes are our windows to the world.’ Those with weak or defective vision take help of spectacles or contact lenses to get a better view of the world. Let us learn what aspects we need to take care of in the use of contact lenses.

Geeta was always cautious of her looks and appearance. She was very sad the day she was diagnosed with weak eyesight and the doctor advised her to put on glasses. Then came Nina, an old friend of hers to her rescue and suggested she go for contact lenses instead of traditional spectacles.

Contact lenses are nothing but plastic spectacles (lenses) of just the right measure that we can wear right on our eyeballs. Contact lenses are of different types.

Some are made of hard plastic material and are worn on the thin layer over the cornea. Such lenses inhibit the passage of oxygen to the eyes as they are quite hard.

On the other hand, semi-soft lenses are also available that are easier and more comfortable to use. Their structure allows passage of oxygen to the eyes. Such lenses are hydrophilic i.e. they have some amount of water content as well that keeps the eyes moist and at ease.

Disposable Lenses

These days, disposable lenses are also available and are much in demand. These are easy to put on and also keep one guarded against eye infections and lack of oxygen to the eyes as one keeps changing the lenses.

Precautions to be taken

It is very important to see that the lenses fit on the eyes perfectly, if not, they may damage the thin veins in the eyes.
They need to be handled with care so as to protect them from cracks or damage.
One must cleanse their hands before using them and avoid using crème or make-up before putting on contact lenses.
Do NOT keep your lenses near aerosols like perfume or hairspray.
Consult your doctor if you find them uncomfortable or if they cause any kind of uneasiness to your eyes.
If by chance your eyes get infected you must get your lenses auto-cleaned.

Implantable Contact Lenses or ICL

This is a modern-day vision-correction method in which a lens is implanted into the eye and does not require frequent removal like a normal contact lens.

ICL is similar to a contact lens.
It is designed to remain inside the eye.
It does not get dirty and needs no maintenance as compared to a normal lens.
Once a year visits to the hospital are usually recommended for the examination of your eyes.
ICL can correct many kinds of vision errors by permanently inserting a Contact Lens in front of the natural lens of the eye.

It can correct the widest range of

Myopia (near sightedness)

Hyperopia (far sightedness)

Astigmatism (cylindrical power)

It is a type of soft contact lens which is inserted into the eye through a very small incision.
It takes only 5-10 minutes for the procedure.
Since, ICL is placed behind the IRIS; it is invisible to both you and the observers.
ICL stays in position by itself. So, it is very comfortable.
If required or if you desire, a certified ophthalmologist can even remove the implant in a quick and short procedure.

Conclusion – Contact Lenses

It is very important to consult your ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) for more information including an assessment of your candidacy and potential risks associated with ICL or even normal contact lenses.