Spectacles & Contact Lenses

Commonly known as eyeglasses or glasses, are corrective lenses worn in front of the eyes to improve vision

1. By Lens Type:

• Single Vision Lenses: These lenses have a single focal point and correct either nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia). 

• Bifocal Lenses:Contain two distinct lens powers, one for distance vision and another for near vision, separated by a visible line. 

• Progressive Lenses:Multifocal lenses with a gradual change in lens power, offering a seamless transition between distance, intermediate, and near vision without a visible line. 

• Specialty Lenses: These include occupational lenses designed for specific tasks (e.g., computer work), blue light filtering lenses, and photochromic lenses that darken in sunlight. 

2. By Frame Type:

• Full-Rim Frames: The lens is completely surrounded by a frame, offering a sturdy and traditional look.

• Half-Rim Frames: Only the top or bottom of the lens is framed, creating a more lightweight and modern appearance.

• Rimless Frames: The lenses are attached directly to the temples and nose bridge, providing a minimalist and virtually frameless look. 

3. By Function:

• Corrective Spectacles: Designed to address vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. 

• Sunglasses: Tinted or polarized lenses that protect the eyes from harmful UV rays and glare. 

• Safety Glasses: Impact-resistant lenses, often polycarbonate, designed to protect the eyes from hazards in work or sports. 

• Computer Glasses: May include blue light filtering or lenses optimized for viewing screens. 

Cleaning:

• Rinse with lukewarm water: This helps remove loose dust and debris that could scratch the lenses. 

• Use a microfiber cloth: These are specifically designed for cleaning glasses and won't scratch the lenses. 

• Use a lens cleaning solution: Specialized solutions are formulated to clean effectively without damaging the lenses or coatings. 

• Avoid harsh chemicals: Don't use household cleaners, ammonia, or acetone, as these can damage the lens coatings. 

• Dry with a clean cloth: Pat the glasses dry with a soft, lint-free cloth, or let them air dry.

Storage:

• Use a protective case:

• Store your glasses in a sturdy case when not in use to prevent scratches and damage. 

• Avoid placing lenses down:

• Always place your glasses frame-side down on a surface to avoid scratching the lenses. 

Types:

• Soft Contact Lenses: These are made of flexible plastics and are generally comfortable to wear. They are available in daily disposables, bi-weekly, and monthly options. 

• Extended Wear Lenses: These can be worn for extended periods, sometimes up to a week, but carry a higher risk of complications. 

• Daily Disposable Lenses: These are worn for a single day and then discarded, offering convenience and reducing the risk of infections. 

• Specialized Lenses: These include lenses for astigmatism, presbyopia, and other specific vision conditions, often requiring specialized fitting and care. 

• Toric Lenses: Designed to correct astigmatism.

• ImprovedVision: Contact lenses can offer a wider field of vision and better clarity, especially for those with high prescriptions or astigmatism.

• Convenience for Active Lifestyles: They are ideal for sports and other activities where glasses might be a hindrance or a safety hazard.

• AestheticAppeal: Many people prefer the natural look of contact lenses over glasses.

• No Fogging or Water Interference:

• Unlike glasses, contact lenses don't fog up in humid conditions or get wet in the rain.

• Variety of Options:There's a wide range of contact lens types available to suit different needs and lifestyles. 

• Maintenance and Hygiene: Contact lenses require proper cleaning, disinfecting, and storage to prevent infections and other complications. 

• Risk of Eye Infections: Improper care can lead to corneal ulcers, infections, and other issues. 

• Dry Eyes:Prolonged wear or certain types of lenses can cause or worsen dry eye symptoms. 

• Cost:Depending on the type and replacement schedule, contact lenses can be more expensive than glasses. 

• Potential Discomfort:Some individuals may experience initial discomfort or difficulty adjusting to certain types of lenses. 

• Not Suitable for Everyone: Certain eye conditions or medical reasons may make contact lenses unsuitable for some individuals.

Coloured Contact Lenses

Coloured contacts are specially designed lenses that can change the color of your eyes. They come in various types, including cosmetic (non-corrective) and corrective lenses, which help with vision problems while also changing eye color.

Prosthetic Contact Lenses

It is recommended for patients having disfigured eye following severe trauma, infections and failed surgeries. It cosmetically improves disfigurement and helps psychologically in enhancing cosmetic appearance. 

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are large, gas-permeable rigid contact lenses that rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) to vault over the irregular, cone-shaped cornea in keratoconus.