Why Hybrid Contact Lenses May Be Right for You
Many patients who come to our La Jolla eye care center have vision issues that are more complicated and unique than traditional refractive error. These patients may have issues with corneal shape, or even the overall shape of their eyes. In such cases, improving their vision could involve the use of special customized contact lenses.
With this in mind, we'd like to go over the basics of hybrid contact lenses, a treatment option for keratoconus and other issues that can make eyes difficult-to-fit when it comes to contacts. As you're about to read, hybrid contact lenses are designed to take these issues into account.
What Is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a condition in which the eyes are improperly shaped. Rather than round and spherical, the eyes bulge outward into a conical shape. This is due to issues with corneal shape and thickness. The estimated occurrence of keratoconus can vary. Some suggest keratoconus occurs in 1 out of 400 people, while others suggest the condition is likely in 1 in 2,000 people.
What Are Hybrid Contact Lenses?
Hybrid contact lenses are large-diameter contacts that combine the benefits of soft contact lenses and hard contact lenses. The central portion of a hybrid contact lens is comprised of a rigid gas permeable center. This gas permeable portion of the contact is surrounded by a softer material.
Hybrid contact lenses first appeared in 1977. They have undergone a significant evolution over the course of the last four decades, proving more comfortable and effective than ever before.
The Results of Using Hybrid Contact Lenses
Hybrid contacts are an excellent option for treating the vision issues related to keratoconus. The rigid portion of the contact helps improve the shape of the eye, resulting in greatly improved vision with the clarity of a hard lens. The soft outer portion of the contact lens provides exceptional comfort.
Ideal Candidates for Hybrid Contact Lenses
Good candidates for hybrid contact lenses are people who suffer from keratoconus or have unique vision issues that necessitate a large-diameter lens. They should be in good overall health and suffer from severe keratoconus. More serious cases of keratoconus may require different contacts or even surgical treatment. This can be discussed in more detail at the consultation process.
Other Issues That Hybrid Contact Lenses Can Address
In addition to helping patients with keratoconus, hybrid contact lenses can also be used on people who have otherwise normal eyes who experience traditional refractive errors. This means that hybrid contacts are a solid option for treating:
- Myopia (Nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
- Astigmatism
Are Hybrid Contact Lenses Right for Me?
The best way to find out if hybrid contact lenses are right for you is to stop by the practice for an eye exam. We can assess your needs and determine if hybrid contacts or another form of vision treatment would be most ideal for your needs.
Learn More About Hybrid Contact Lenses
For more information about hybrid contact lenses and whether or not they are right for you, be sure to contact our experienced team of eye doctors today. The team at our practice looks forward to your visit and discussing these matters in greater detail.
