Hard Vs. Soft Progressive Lenses

Progressive contact lenses were developed to correct many vision disorders including myopia, presbyopia, astigmatism and other vision problems. The lenses utilize gradient lens power and are available in hard, gas permeable, soft and hybrid varieties.

Progressive Lens Features

• Progressive contact lenses have distinct sections that address short- and near-sightedness in varying prescriptions to correct vision as needed. The top portion of the lens is dedicated to the short-sighted prescription, while the bottom portion is dedicated to the near-sighted prescription. The lenses stay centered on the eye through a weighted mechanism design.

Progressive Contact Lenses Benefits

• Progressive contact lenses correct a variety of vision disorders, ranging from short- and near-sightedness to many levels of astigmatism. Progressive lenses eliminate the need for separate reading or driving glasses.

Soft Progressive Lenses

• Soft progressive contact lenses are reportedly quite comfortable, especially for first time contact lens wearers. These lenses tend to be disposable, and can be purchased for daily, weekly or monthly wear. Soft lenses can correct myopia, presbyopia and astigmatism, although their clarity level for complex prescriptions is not as high as can be found in hard contact lenses.

Hard, Gas Permeable Progressive Lenses

• Because rigid gas permeable (RGP) progressive lenses are sturdier than soft lenses, they can last longer and are easier to handle. The vision quality in RGP lenses is often considered to be higher, especially for those with complicated or more complex prescriptions. However, the lenses have been reported by patients to be slightly less comfortable to wear. The hard lenses are usually also available in bifocal and extended-wear options.

Hybrid Progressive Contact Lenses

• Hybrid progressive contact lenses have a rigid center encased in a soft shell. The lenses are designed to provide the comfort of soft lenses and the vision clarity associated with hard lenses. The hybrid lens typically require a specialist to fit them properly to the patient's eye. There is also some controversy regarding whether hybrid lenses allow oxygen to properly circulate in the eye.