Concerns of a soon-to-be new RPG Lens Wearer?

Question

In a recent visit to my eye doctor, he decided that RGP lenses might be a better option for me since I've been having trouble with my soft contact lenses. I've spent several hours today Googling and reading as much as I can about them and most of what I've read isn't good.

The biggest issues seem to be comfort and adaption. Since I've worn contacts for a few years, would I adapt sooner than someone that has never worn contacts before? Also, just exactly how uncomfortable is it the first few days?

I've also read about RGP lenses randomly popping out on people. Does it really happen that often? Any advice would be much appreciated! Thanks.

Answer 1

I DON'T WANT TO SCARE YOU....THINK BOTTLE CAPS ON YOUR EYES. I HAVE DRY EYE AND SENSITIVE EYES AND TRIED CIBA NIGHT AND DAYS EXCEPT I STILL TAKE THEM OUT AT NIGHT.  I ALSO USE PEROXIDE TYPE CLEANER IT'S CALLED CLEARCARE. WORKS VERY WELL.

Answer 2

First, RGP lenses are excellent lenses to wear.  Although, you have become aware of a couple of their disadvantages, they definitely have some significant advantages over soft contact lenses.  1)  They many times can provide sharper vision than soft lenses 2)  They tend to cause many fewer problems for people with ocular allergies or immune disorders like Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis 3)  They tend to be less expensive to wear since the lenses can last 2 to 4 years depending on circumstances.

To address some of your concerns -- 1) A well fit RGP lens seldom pops out.  They actually tend to be quite secure on the eye.  If the lens is popping out it needs to be refit. 2)  Adaptation, in most cases, takes only a few days and then the lenses generally become quite comfortable 3)  If you do not adapt well, ask your doctor if he can perform an edge modification I call an Anterior Edge Roll.  What this entails is using a polishing wheel to blend the anterior edge of the contact lens to make the edge more comfortable.  What the eyelid is having to adapt to is the sensation of the EDGE of the lens not the lens itself.  So if the anterior edge is modified to make it smoother, then the sensation of the lens is dramatically reduced.