How Long Do Specialty Lenses Last - and How to Care for Them

Specialty contact lenses can be a game changer for people with unique vision needs, offering clarity and comfort where standard lenses may not be effective. One of the most common questions people have about these lenses is how long they last and what’s involved in caring for them. Understanding the lifespan and proper maintenance of specialty lenses is essential - not only for protecting your investment, but also for keeping your eyes healthy and your vision sharp.
 

What Are Specialty Contact Lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are advanced vision solutions designed for individuals whose eyes have unique needs that standard contacts can’t address. These lenses are custom-made to accommodate various eye conditions, such as keratoconus, severe dry eye, high astigmatism, post-surgical corneas, or irregularly shaped eyes. 
 

Types of specialty lenses include scleral lenses, rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, hybrid lenses, and custom soft lenses. Each is crafted to provide improved comfort, stability, and clarity for patients who require a more tailored approach to vision correction. By working closely with your eye doctor, specialty contact lenses can deliver comfortable, reliable vision when traditional contacts or glasses fall short.
 

How Long Do Specialty Lenses Last?

The lifespan of specialty lenses depends on several factors, including the lens material, your eye health, and how well you care for them.
 

Scleral and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are known for their durability. With proper care, these lenses can often last one to two years, or sometimes even longer. Their rigid material makes them more resistant to deposits and tearing compared to standard soft lenses.
 

Custom soft lenses, on the other hand, generally require more frequent replacement. Most custom soft lenses are replaced every three to six months, depending on their specific design and your optometrist’s recommendation.
 

It’s important to remember that even if your lenses still feel comfortable, wearing them beyond their recommended lifespan can reduce comfort, impact vision quality, and increase your risk of eye infections. Regularly replacing your lenses as advised by your eye doctor helps keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear.
 

How to Care for Specialty Lenses

Proper care is key to extending the life of your lenses and keeping your eyes healthy:

• Clean and Disinfect Daily: Use only the cleaning solution recommended by your eye doctor. Rub and rinse your lenses daily to remove debris and protein buildup.

• Store Properly: Always store your lenses in a clean case filled with fresh solution, never reuse old solution.

• Handle With Clean Hands: Wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses to prevent contamination.

• Avoid Tap Water: Never rinse your lenses or lens case with tap water, as it may contain harmful microbes.

• Follow the Replacement Schedule: Stick to the schedule your optometrist recommends, even if the lenses look and feel fine.
   

When to Replace Your Lenses

Replace your lenses right away if you experience persistent discomfort, redness, irritation, decreased vision quality, cloudiness, or if you notice any visible damage, warping, or scratches on the lenses. 
 

In addition to watching for these signs, it’s essential to schedule regular eye exams. Routine visits with your eye doctor allow them to assess your eye health, check the condition of your lenses, and provide guidance on when replacements are needed. These appointments help catch potential problems early and ensure your eyes stay healthy and your vision remains clear.
 

Get Expert Care for Your Specialty Lenses

Specialty lenses can last for months or even years, but only with the right care and regular replacement. Taking care of your lenses doesn’t just protect your investment, it keeps your vision clear and your eyes healthy.
 

If you have questions about your specialty lenses or need a new prescription, contact 20/20 EyeVenue to schedule an eye exam. Visit our office in Westminster or Strasburg, Colorado, or call (720) 740-0400 to book an appointment today.