Gas Permeable Lenses: Are You a Candidate?

Although you may be more familiar with soft contact lenses, a second, less familiar type of contact lens materials exists: rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, also called oxygen permeable lenses.

Actually, GP lenses are a newer technology than soft lenses, and they last longer, can be more successful in improving vision, and offer increased resilience. Further RGP lenses can also be cheaper in the long run than soft lenses. Of course, its best to first consult with an eye doctor to determine whether GPs suit your lifestyle. Our optometry office can assist you in ascertaining if you'd be a fit for GP lenses.

Since an RGP is constructed from inflexible material, it retains its shape well when you blink, which can afford crisper vision than the average soft lens. Additionally GPs are especially durable. Although they will crack if stepped on, they don't tear easily like soft lenses. Further, since they consist of substances that don't contain water, proteins or lipids from your tears won't stick to GPs as easily as they will to soft lenses. Those of you who are especially particular about vision quality will most likely opt for RGPs.

On the downside, RGPs must be worn regularly in order to achieve maximum comfort. Additionally, some people report "spectacle blur" with GPs, which is when vision is unclear when contact lenses are taken out even while still wearing glasses. Though the effect is only temporary, it can demand constant GP usage.

If you are looking into GP lenses, be sure to first ask your optometrist to determine if you truly are a suitable candidate. Who knows…hard lenses might be the right answer for you!