Daily vs Extended Wear Contact Lenses

When choosing contact lenses, you have many decisions to make. One of them is choosing between daily wear and extended wear contacts. In this guide, our team at Greenwich Eye Care in Old Greenwich and Darien will help break down the differences, so you can make an informed decision.

Use of Lenses

Daily wear lenses are just what they sound like – you only use them for one day. At the end, you throw them away and use a new pair the next day. They are not designed to be worn overnight. Extended wear lenses can be worn from one week to a month, depending on the type you use. Some are even FDA-approved to be worn overnight.

Safety

As long as you follow the guidelines, both are safe for use. As you throw out the daily wear each day, you don’t have to worry about bacteria or protein build-up on them. However, the material doesn’t allow for much oxygen to reach the eyes, which can prove problematic for your eye care. Extended wear lenses are made thinner so that more oxygen can reach the eye. These, too, are safe, as long as you follow the cleaning guidelines and do not use them longer than recommended.

Cleaning

Daily wear doesn’t require cleaning, as these lenses are thrown out each day. Extended wear requires following a regular cleaning routine and specific cleaning solution.

Cost

Many people prefer extended wear, as daily wear lenses tend to cost more upfront. However, extended wear lenses require extras, like cleaning solution and storage cases. Additionally, if you lose or scratch your extended wear lenses, they can become more costly.

Which Is Right for You?

In short, the decision depends on how well you can commit to regularly cleaning your lenses and how much you wish to spend over time. You should also factor in whether you want to sleep in them. Your eye doctor will discuss your options and help you choose the best for your eye care needs and preferences.

Schedule an Appointment with an Optometrist in Old Greenwich or Darien, CT

Are you looking for an eye doctor near you? Let our team at Greenwich Eye Care help you choose the best lenses for your needs by scheduling a visit with our eye doctor at (203) 698-5049.