If you’ve ever struggled with standard contact lenses or been told you’re not a good candidate for them, you might need specialty contact lenses. Unlike traditional soft lenses, specialty contacts are designed for people with unique eye conditions that require custom solutions for clear and comfortable vision. At Patel Vision Group, we specialize in fitting specialty lenses for various vision needs.

What Are Specialty Contact Lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are custom-designed to fit irregular corneas, provide better oxygen flow, or manage specific eye conditions. Unlike standard soft lenses, they come in different materials, sizes, and designs to accommodate individual vision challenges.

Types of Specialty Contact Lenses

• Scleral Lenses – Large-diameter gas-permeable lenses that rest on the white part of the eye (sclera), creating a smooth optical surface for those with keratoconus or severe dry eye.
   

• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses – Smaller, durable lenses that offer sharper vision, especially for high astigmatism or corneal irregularities.
   

• Hybrid Lenses – Combine the comfort of soft lenses with the clarity of RGP lenses, ideal for people needing sharp vision with added comfort.
   

• Toric Contact Lenses – Designed for astigmatism with a unique shape to correct blurred or distorted vision.
   

• Multifocal & Bifocal Contact Lenses – Help individuals with presbyopia (age-related difficulty in seeing up close) by providing multiple focusing powers.
   

• Ortho-K (Orthokeratology) Lenses – Worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, providing clear daytime vision without the need for glasses or contacts.

Signs You Might Need Specialty Contact Lenses

Not sure if specialty lenses are for you? Here are some common reasons why they might be a better fit than standard lenses:
 

• You Have Keratoconus or an Irregular Cornea: Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin and bulge, making it difficult to fit standard lenses. Scleral or RGP lenses help create a smooth optical surface for clearer vision.
   

• You Experience Chronic Dry Eyes: If regular contacts dry out your eyes or feel uncomfortable, scleral lenses or hybrid lenses can provide moisture and comfort by creating a protective tear layer.
   

• You Have High Astigmatism: Standard lenses may not correct astigmatism effectively. Toric, RGP, or hybrid lenses can provide sharper vision tailored to your eye shape.
   

• You Need Vision Correction for Multiple Distances: If you struggle to see both near and far, multifocal or bifocal lenses can help you transition smoothly between different focal points.
   

• You Want an Alternative to LASIK: Ortho-K lenses offer a non-surgical option to correct vision while you sleep, eliminating the need for daytime glasses or contacts.

What to Expect During a Specialty Contact Lens Fitting

At Patel Vision Group, we take a customized approach to ensure your specialty contact lenses fit comfortably and provide optimal vision. Our fitting process is designed to address your unique vision needs and ensure long-term comfort and clarity.

The first step is a comprehensive eye exam, where we assess your corneal shape, prescription, and overall eye health. This evaluation helps us determine the best type of specialty lens for your condition, whether you have keratoconus, high astigmatism, dry eyes, or another vision challenge.

Next, we conduct a trial lens fitting, where we provide test lenses for you to wear. This step allows us to check for comfort, stability, and clarity, ensuring the lenses align well with your corneal shape and prescription needs.

Finally, we schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress. During these appointments, we assess how your eyes are adjusting to the lenses and make any necessary refinements. This ensures that you achieve the best possible fit and vision with your new specialty contacts.

Find the Right Contact Lens Solution for You

If you’ve had trouble finding comfortable contacts or have a unique vision condition, specialty contact lenses could be the perfect solution. Our experienced team is here to help you achieve clear, comfortable vision with custom contact lens fittings.

Schedule an eye exam with Patel Vision Group to explore your options and discover how specialty lenses can enhance your vision and eye health! Visit our office in Visalia, Redding, Roseville, Monterey, Salinas, Sacramento, Fresno, or Fair Oaks, California. Call (559) 739-8550, (530) 221-6557, (916) 788-2960, (831) 375-7755, (831) 443-5250, (916) 629-8033, (559) 538-1567, (916) 966-4700, or (559) 500-7685 to book your appointment today.