Questions and Answers

WHAT ARE CONTACT LENSES?
Contact lenses are small, thin, spherical (in most cases), optically ground, molded, or spun disks made from various plastic or silicone related materials designed to fit the exterior surface of the eye in order to correct or improve defective vision.   

CAN ANYONE WEAR CONTACT LENSES?
No. There are certain eye conditions that contraindicate contact lenses of any type. Severe anemia, chronic conjunctivitis, chronic infections in the tear sack, or some other uncommon systemic disorder.

CAN CONTACT LENSES GET LOST INSIDE OR BEHIND THE EYE?
No, it’s impossible.  However, it is possible for a lens to get misplaced under the upper or lower lid and would need to be located and re-centered by the technique outlined by your contact lens specialist.

ARE THERE SPECIAL SUNGLASSES FOR CONTACT LENS WEARERS?
There are no special types of sunglasses for contact lens wearers.  But always choose quality sunglasses, preferably from a certified optician.  Those sold in drug stores and variety stores are often of questionable quality, having optical discrepancies and distortions that may lead to headaches and ocular discomfort.

WILL MY VISION WITH CONTACT LENSES BE AS GOOD AS WITH MY GLASSES?
Definitely.  In fact, your peripheral or side vision is likely to be superior with contact lenses. This is particularly so with higher prescriptions. 

WHY ARE CONTACT LENSES OPTICALLY SUPERIOR TO GLASSES?
One reason is that contact lenses fit closer to the eye than glasses. This allows more natural vision. But the main reason is that contact lenses move with the eye, with the result that the wearer is always looking through the center of the lens, the area of most acute vision.

CAN CONTACT LENSES ENHANCE OR CHANGE THE NATURAL COLOUR OF THE EYES?
Yes. Colored soft contact lenses can not only enhance or change the natural color of the eye, but can also change brown eyes, even dark brown eyes, to a variety of other colors including blue, green and violet.

CAN COSMETICS BE WORN WITH CONTACT LENSES?
Yes. However, cosmetics and moisturizers contain oils and lanolin’s which may smear or even permanently damage a contact lens, particularly the soft type. Wash hands thoroughly and use cosmetics with care.

CAN CONTACT LENSES BE USED FOR OTHER THAN OPTICAL MEANS?
Yes. Contact lenses are sometimes used to provide a protective surface, like a bandage, in the eye. They may also be used for drug delivery and irrigation, as well as having surgical uses.