If you have to correct your vision, you can discuss with your optometrist your choices when it comes to wearing either glasses or contact lenses, or both. With advancements in technology, contact lenses are available for a range of eye problems including astigmatism, farsightedness, nearsightedness and even presbyopia. There are even contact lenses options for people who need multifocal corrections, so don’t feel like you are limited to only glasses if you have multiple conditions.
Basically the choice comes down to your preference on eyeglasses or contact lenses. You should take into consideration your lifestyle and budget as well as comfort, convenience and your style. We will offer several advantages and disadvantages to both glasses and contact lenses to help you choose which is best for you.
Contact Lenses Advantages:
- One of the major advantages of wearing contact lenses is the reduction of visual distortion. Since contact lenses sit on your eye, they offer complete coverage. As your eyeglasses sit an inch or so away from your eyes, distortion can occur. Not to mention your peripheral vision is also corrected when you use contact lenses.
- Contact lenses are advantageous when playing sports, running or swimming. You do not need to remove your glasses and sacrifice your vision when using contact lenses. I know for myself that watching 3D movies is nearly impossible whilst wearing glasses and a major reason why I would switch to contact lenses.
- You will also not be affected by weather conditions such as rain, fog or extremely muggy conditions like you are when wearing glasses.
- Contact lenses are discrete and will not clash with your outfit.
Contact Lenses Disadvantages:
- Touching your eye can be difficult for some, not to mention increases the risk of eye infections
- You can also suffer from dry eyes as there is something irritating your eye constantly when you wear contact lenses
- You generally need to renew your prescription more often when you have contact lenses. This might be disadvantageous if you travel often
- Proper care is essential for your contact lenses. You need to keep regular contact lenses in a solution overnight and if you accidentally fall asleep with them in your eyes will be sore the next day. In saying this, there are extended wear contact lenses available if you find yourself doing this often.
Eye Glasses Advantages:
- The main advantage of wearing glasses is that you do not have to touch your eyes. This is beneficial for everyone, especially if you have sensitive eyes.
- Glasses are generally cheaper in the long run and you do not need to renew your prescription as often as you do with contact lenses.
- If you enjoy making a statement with what you wear, then glasses come in such an array of styles that they are an irresistible addition to any outfit.
- Minimal care is needed when you have glasses.
- You can purchase photochromic lenses for your glasses. They react to the amount of UV light in a room and darken or lighten accordingly.
- Glasses provide some protection from debris and dust
Eye Glasses Disadvantages:
- Your peripheral vision can be distorted as your glasses sit off your face
- With a strong prescription your eyes can look magnified
- Glasses can be affected by the elements, such as fog and rain
- It is hard to wear glasses during sports or when watching 3D movies
- They can hurt your nose ears from constant pressure or rubbing.
Hopefully this has helped in your decision on whether to choose contact lenses or glasses. Talk with your optometrist at Innovations in Eyecare and try out some contact lenses or frames to see what best suits you.