The short answer is "no." So in that case, you may wonder, are contacts better than glasses? Again, no. There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer; each solution has its pros and cons. The choice that is better for you depends on personal factors like lifestyle, convenience, comfort, budget, and style.
Let's take a closer look at some of the benefits and drawbacks of contacts and glasses.
Your optician can help you decide what type of contacts would maximize the benefits and minimize the drawbacks of contacts for you.
Just about anyone. Contact lens technology has progressed so that there are contact lenses to correct a wide variety of vision problems.
Modern contact lenses are healthy for your eyes, as long as you disinfect or replace them as often as directed. That will be daily, weekly, monthly, or longer, depending on the kind of contacts you choose. Problems can occur if you do not take proper care when handling and disinfecting the contacts, or do not dispose of them as frequently as directed.
Both glasses and contacts can be made into bifocal, trifocal, and even progressive lenses.
People with astigmatisma condition in which the eye is more oval than round, causing visual distortioncan wear either glasses or contacts. Contacts can be as effective or more effective than glasses for people with astigmatism.
Glasses are generally less expensive in the long run because they do not need to be replaced as often. However, if your glasses break, they can be expensive to replace.
Yesin fact, people who wear contacts should definitely own a pair of glasses. Generally, you can't wear your contacts 24/7, so glasses for the "off" time are a good idea. And for those who wear glasses more frequently, contacts can be convenient at times you would prefer their look or performance.
No. Contact lens prescriptions are different from eyeglass prescriptions. Your eye doctor can provide accurate prescriptions for both.
Athletes and active types have some special concerns when deciding between contact lenses and prescription eyeglasses.
Some of the best contact lenses for sports are multifocal contacts, which improve near and distant vision quality simultaneously. These are especially beneficial for people over the age of forty who may have multiple prescriptions.
Contemporary designs and technologies have greatly enhanced the performance of traditional glasses. No-slip grips at the temple tips and fog-resistant lenses make glasses more comfortable and convenient than ever before. You may also consider prescription sunglasses for primarily outdoor activities; these will properly adjust your vision while blocking blinding sunlight.
Our best recommendation for athletes and active hobbyists alike is to keep both contact lenses and glasses on hand. In the event your eyes become too irritated to wear contacts, your glasses will be a welcome fallback. In the reverse situation, when your regular glasses fog up, get streaked with rain, slip out of place, or take impacts you're not a fan of, you can swap out for contacts. Whichever your main preference, it doesn't hurt athletes to keep each option available in an effort to expect the unexpected.
Whether you want to use contacts every day or plan on just occasional wear, you and your optometrist will need to decide which type of contact lens is right for you. Some factors to consider are:
Hard contact lenses are more durable than soft lenses and maintain their shape better, but they do have a longer adjustment period than the soft contact lens. Soft contact lenses are known for their comfort. Most are worn during the day and removed at night, but extended wear varieties can be worn continuously for 24 hours or more. Some soft lenses are disposable and are worn for a specified amount of timesometimes as little as a dayand then thrown out. On the other end of the longevity spectrum, other soft lenses are designed to last for a year when properly cleaned and disinfected.
When you have your eye exam, your eye doctor will determine the prescription you need to correct your vision, and will also measure your eyes so that the contacts will fit comfortably. You can then buy the contacts from the optometrist or order your contacts online. The cost of the contact lens depends on which type you and your eye care specialist have decided on. Many times, lower prices are available online than at the eye doctor's office. Some insurance plans cover the cost of contacts; check into this before your appointment.
To order contacts online, you will need a prescription from your eye doctor that is less than a year old.
While many people buy their contacts directly from their optometrist, purchasing contacts online will usually save you money. Many people also enjoy the convenience of having the contacts delivered right to their door, and the ability to shop around for the best deal. However, you will want to make sure you order from a reputable company with great products and customer servicecheck the Better Business Bureau or other online source for reviews.
Check our website for rebates, contact lens discounts, coupon codes, or sales that will save you even more money. Buying contact lenses online can be a cost-efficient and pleasant experience, as long as you know what to look for.
The choice between contact lenses and glasses is a personal decision that must account for factors like style, budget, convenience, and comfort. Happy, healthy eyes are essential, so the "better" choice is the choice that is better for YOU. Whichever one you choose, remember to get your eyes checked every year to update your prescription and keep your eyes in tip-top shape.