Contact lenses, little disks that fit right on the eye, correct vision problems in the same way as regular eyeglasses, by redirecting the incoming light onto the retina. They work for nearsighted people who have trouble seeing objects in the distance and farsighted people who have trouble seeing up close. There are many questions about contact lenses, including who can wear them, how long can you wear them, can they really change the eye color and how much do they cost?
Who
Most people can wear contact lenses.
People who have vision problems and need glasses are candidates for contact lenses. According the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, most people can wear contact lenses. There are exceptions; these include people with frequent eye infections, severe allergies, dry eye, a work environment that is dirty or dusty and anyone who is unable to properly care for and maintain the lenses.
How Long
How long contact lenses can be worn depends on several factors.
Hard contact lenses were the original contact lenses, but they could not be worn for long periods of time because they did not allow oxygen to reach the cornea. New versions of hard contacts (gas permeable) now allow oxygen to reach the cornea. Most people have now switched to soft contact lenses, including daily wear, which can be worn for longer periods of time. According to Eye Care Source, extended wear lenses are soft lenses that can be worn for up to seven days without removal, including sleeping.
Color
Contact lenses can change eye color.
Contact lenses can be purchased in many colors, for those people who either do not like their natural eye color or who want a different look occasionally. At the Colored Contacts website, there is a list of the colors offered, from the most pronounced color change of brilliant blue to the least change of blue. The most popular color sold is true sapphire, with blue and green following behind. Colored Contacts also offers special Halloween contacts for those who want an eye change to accompany their costume.
Cost
Costs can vary.
The initial cost of contact lenses includes a visit for an eye examination and some guidance about the wear and care of the lenses. According to the American Optometric Association, a full eye exam is necessary before wearing contacts. That visit would also include trying lenses to get the best fit, training in inserting the lenses properly and guidance in caring for the contact lenses. As the lenses are being worn, there would be follow-up visits to monitor the usage. Once a person is comfortable with her contact lenses, she could choose not to purchase them from her eye provider