Glasses Vs. Contacts

For those who suffer from vision problems and distortions, there are two correction solutions that are commonly available: glasses and contact lenses. While both items essentially perform the same job, helping the eye focus and see properly, there are a number of advantages and disadvantages to each option.

Distortion

• Whether you wear glasses or contact lenses, both will create some distortion. However, since glasses have thicker lenses and they are farther away from the eye, the distortion that occurs at the edge of the lens is more noticeable. This is due to the prism effect, or how light is bent when it goes through the lens. Because contact lenses are actually on the eye, the wearer is usually looking through the center, and the distortion doesn't affect her as much.

Prescription Strength

• Because contact lenses sit directly on the eye, they don't need to be as strong as glasses for the same person. The distance between the eyeglasses and the eye makes a difference in just how the person will need to focus. With contact lenses right on the eye, the focus happens nearly instantly, so less adapting needs to be done.

Convenience and Comfort

• There are several considerations for what an individual wearer would consider convenient. Glasses may slip down the nose, or get lost throughout the day if they aren't being worn all the time. They may also cause pain on the bridge of the nose if worn for too long. However, contact lenses have to actually be put in the eye, a process some people find difficult. In addition, contact lenses can be easily lost, since they're small, clear, and nearly invisible if the wearer doesn't have them in. For those who have dry or watery eyes, contacts may not even be an option, and putting contact lenses in or taking them out is a process that's much more involved than simply slipping on a pair of glasses.

Expense

• Eyeglasses may last for several years, and some providers will replace your glasses for free if they're damaged within a certain time period. In addition, glasses will usually be covered by health or vision insurance to help off set their high cost. Contact lenses often come with additional costs. Although they can be purchased for less than the cost of glasses, the cost of having to buy several sets of them adds up. This is in addition to saline solution and other costs. Lastly, some insurance companies will not help pay for contact lenses because they're seen as a vanity rather than a necessity, so the cost is often completely out of pocket to the wearer.

Cosmetics

• Contact lenses have become very popular with those who don't like the look of glasses. Contacts can also be specialized to change the color, or even the entire look, of the wearer's eyes. This makes them appealing to people who like their face as it is, without the cosmetic break-up of glasses. However, the same can also be said for people who prefer glasses. Often, wearing glasses can slim a person's facial features or lend them a scholarly air. Depending on the wearer, both methods of eye correction have their own aesthetic appeal.