What Are Bandage Contacts?

A bandage contact is a soft contact lens worn to protect or help in the healing of an eye wound or infection or following eye surgery such as LASIK and to provide some pain relief. Certain contact lenses are better suited for this use as a type of protection, particularly soft lenses that can be left in place several days.

Types of Eye Conditions Requiring a Bandage Contact

• Bandage contacts may be used to protect the cornea following an injury to the area, or to help protect the epithethial layer of the eye following injury/illness and following surgical procedures. The contact prevents rubbing and irritation from blinking.

Benefits

• A bandage contact can prevent further rubbing and irritation to the eye following an infection, surgery or injury, protect the eye area from exposure and provide pain relief during the healing process. They are useful in cases of bullous keratopathy, corneal ulcers, erosion or abrasions, keratitis and dry eyes.

Time Frame

• Typically, a bandage lens may be in place for a few days up to about one week. Sometimes an eye care professional will be required to remove the lens.

Considerations

• Only use the bandage contact as directed by an eye care physician, and for only the period specified. To use longer is to risk corneal erosion or infection. If pain develops or persists following the use of bandage lenses, contact your eye doctor immediately.

Added Benefit

• An additional benefit of the bandage contact lens is that vision correction may take place as well as the protection offered by the lens. The lenses may have prescription strength in addition to helping heal a wound or infection, so that the wearer can have corrected vision while recovering.