What are soft contact lenses?
Soft contact lenses are the world’s most popular vision correction choice because they’re immediately comfortable and easy to adapt to. Made from flexible, breathable materials, these lenses conform to your eye shape naturally, providing clear vision without the adjustment period needed with rigid lenses.
Most modern soft lenses use silicone hydrogel materials that deliver five times more oxygen to your eyes than older lens types, keeping your eyes healthier and more comfortable throughout the day.
Your lens options
Daily disposable lenses
You use a fresh pair every day and throw them away at bedtime. This is the most hygienic option since you never clean or store lenses, dramatically reducing your infection risk. While they cost more per lens, you save money on cleaning solutions and cases. Daily lenses are perfect if you wear contacts occasionally, travel frequently, or have sensitive eyes.
Weekly and bi-weekly lenses
These lenses last two weeks with proper nightly cleaning. They offer a good balance between cost and convenience, giving you the benefits of frequent replacement without daily lens handling. You’ll need to clean and store them every night in fresh solution.
Monthly lenses
The most economical choice, these thicker, more durable lenses last thirty days. They’re easier to handle and less likely to tear, but require dedicated cleaning routines. Monthly lenses work well if you wear contacts daily and don’t mind the maintenance routine.
Getting comfortable with your lenses
Inserting your lenses
Clean, dry hands are essential. Check that your lens forms a perfect bowl shape on your fingertip without flipped edges. Place it gently on your eye and blink slowly to let it settle. With practice, insertion becomes quick and effortless.
Removing your lenses
Look up, gently pull down your lower eyelid, and carefully pinch the lens between clean fingertips. Never use your nails or attempt removal when the lens has moved off-center. If you’re having trouble, try rewetting drops to help the lens move more easily.
What to expect
Your eyes may feel slightly aware of the lenses for the first few hours, but this quickly disappears. Most people adapt completely within a few days and can comfortably wear soft lenses for 10-16 hours daily.
Caring for your lenses
The best cleaning approach
We recommend hydrogen peroxide systems like AOSEPT or OXYSEPT as your first choice. These solutions are incredibly effective against germs while being gentle on your eyes. After six hours, they become sterile, preservative-free saline – the purest solution you can put in your eyes.
When convenience matters
For travel or occasional use, all-in-one solutions offer convenience, though they contain preservatives that can irritate sensitive eyes. If you need this option, BioTrue solution works most like your natural tears and causes the least irritation.
Daily habits
If you wear reusable lenses, clean them immediately after removal, store in fresh solution nightly, and replace your case every three months. Never reuse cleaning solution or rinse lenses with water.
Your journey to clear vision
Choosing the right soft lenses depends on your lifestyle, prescription, and personal preferences. The key to success lies in proper fitting, selecting appropriate lenses for your needs, and following good hygiene practices.
At The Eye Practice, we’ll help you find lenses that fit your life perfectly. We’ll teach you proper insertion and removal techniques, recommend the best care system for your situation, and provide ongoing support to ensure your lenses remain comfortable and your eyes stay healthy.
Most people are amazed at how quickly they adapt to soft lenses and wonder why they waited so long to make the switch from glasses.
Call us on +61 2 9290 1899 or make an appointment online today to start your journey to comfortable, clear vision with soft contact lenses.
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