Advantages and Disadvantages of Various Types of Contact Lenses
Rigid gas-permeable (RGP)
They are made of slightly flexible plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the eyes.
Adv
They provide very good vision and are easy to adapt to. They are comfortable to wear and correct most vision problems. They are durable with a relatively long life. You can get tinted lenses and bifocals.
Disadv
They need to be worn regularly. They tend to slip off centre of eye more than other types. They sometimes catch dirt inside and require visits for follow-up contact lens care.
Daily-wear soft lenses
They are made of soft, flexible plastic that allows oxygen to pass through to the eyes.
Adv
You can adapt to them very quickly. They are very comfortable and do not move easily. They are available in tints and bifocals. Can be used while playing sports.
Disadv
They do not correct all vision problems. The vision is not as crisp as with RGP lenses. The lenses soil easily and must be replaced and also need follow up care.
Extended-wear
They are available for overnight wear in soft or RGP lenses.
Adv
They can usually be worn up to seven days without removal.
Disadv
These lenses do not correct all vision problems. They can cause complications. They require regular monitoring and professional care.
Extended-wear disposable
Soft lenses worn for an extended period of time, from one to six days and then discarded.
Adv
They can usually be worn up to seven days without removal.
Disadv
These lenses do not correct all vision problems. They can cause complications. They require regular monitoring and professional care.
Extended-wear
They are available for overnight wear in soft or RGP lenses.
Adv
They require very little cleaning. Chances of infection are very low if worn correctly, and are available in tints and bifocals. You also get spare lenses.
Disadv
You may not get as crisp a vision as RGP lenses. They do not correct all vision problems.
Planned replacement
Soft daily wear lenses that are replaced on a planned schedule, most often either every two weeks, monthly or quarterly.
Adv
They are good for the eyes and are easy to clean. They are available in most prescriptions.
Disadv
The vision may not be as sharp as RGP lenses, they, do not correct all vision problems. Sometimes they are difficult to manage.