Customized Specialty Contact Lenses for Complex Vision Needs
Traditional contact lenses don’t always work for everyone. For patients with more complex vision needs, specialty contact lenses offer a solution that provides unmatched clarity and comfort, allowing them to see the world clearly and comfortably.
What Are Specialty Contact Lenses?
Specialty contact lenses are custom-made lenses designed for individuals with unique vision needs or eye conditions that make standard lenses ineffective or uncomfortable. This includes:
- Keratoconus
- Astigmatism
- Corneal irregularities
- Post-surgical complications
- Dry eyes
These lenses are specially crafted to correct vision problems that traditional lenses can’t, providing a more tailored fit and better visual outcomes.
Types of Specialty Lenses
We offer several types of specialty lenses to meet a wide range of vision needs:
- Scleral Lenses: These lenses are larger than traditional contacts and rest on the white part of the eye by vaulting over the cornea. They provide a smooth, stable surface for those with irregular corneas and are also ideal for severe dry eyes.
- Hybrid Lenses: Combining the best of both worlds, hybrid lenses feature a hard lens center surrounded by a soft outer ring. This provides the clear vision of a gas permeable lens with the comfort of a soft lens.
- Toric Contact Lenses: Designed specifically for patients with astigmatism, toric lenses have a unique shape that corrects the uneven curvature of the eye. This results in sharp, stable vision.
Benefits of Specialty Contact Lenses
- Custom Fit: Specialty lenses are tailored to your unique eye shape and condition. This provides a better, more comfortable fit than standard contacts.
- Clearer Vision: Specialty lenses correct vision problems that regular lenses can’t address.
- Increased Comfort: These lenses provide greater comfort, even for those with sensitive or irregular corneas.
- Restored Quality of Life: For many patients, specialty lenses provide the freedom to drive, work, and enjoy life without the limitations of poor vision.
The Fitting Process for Specialty Lenses
The fitting process for specialty lenses is more detailed than standard lenses. Here’s what you can expect:
- Comprehensive Eye Exam: Our fitting process begins with an eye examination to assess your overall eye health. It also enables us to identify any underlying conditions.
- Custom Measurements: We take precise measurements of your corneas to ensure that your lenses are custom-fitted for maximum comfort and clarity.
- Trial Lenses: Before finalizing your prescription and lens type, we provide trial lenses so you can test their comfort and visual acuity.
- Follow-Up Visits: After the initial fitting, we’ll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. Should you require any changes, we’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure your lenses are providing optimal vision and comfort.
Dr. Shirley speaks about specialty contact lenses
Patient Success Story: Meet Tiffany
Tiffany was referred to our office over a year ago with a debilitating eye condition that had left her nearly blind and worried she would need major eye surgery.
For six years, Tiffany had struggled with her vision and feared the worst. In 2019, she saw an ophthalmologist in Pittsburgh, who gave her an alternative to surgery—seeing Dr. Shirley for a medically necessary specialty contact lens fitting.
After just a few appointments with Dr. Shirley and being fitted with a new specialty contact lens, Tiffany’s vision was restored. She regained her independence and even began driving at night again, something she hadn’t done in over six years.
With tears of joy, Tiffany expressed her gratitude, saying, “Dr. Shirley gave me my life back. He is amazing.”
