What Are Continuous Wear Contact Lenses?

Continuous wear contact lenses are designed to be worn for extended periods of time. In this aspect, they differ from disposable contact lenses, which are thrown away after a day or so.

Schedule

• The length of time you wear continuous wear contact lenses varies according to individual prescriptions, usually running for seven days to one month. You don't need to clean them or take them out during that time.

Advantages

• The primarily benefit of continuous wear contact lenses is the ability to wake up in the middle of the night and still have perfect vision.

Replacement

• Harmful deposits tend to build up on continuous wear lenses over time. Accordingly, they must be removed and replaced with fresh ones when they are no longer effective or your eyes become red or irritated.

Advancements

• Early continuous wear contact lenses were comparatively thick and uncomfortable. Newer lenses are made of silicone hydrogel and similar materials, allowing oxygen to better permeate the eyes.

Dangers

• Continuous wear contact lenses have a greater risk of infection and other difficulties. Accordingly, you should check with your eye doctor regularly while using them and report any discomfort or development.