Vision care and correction look different for everyone. Some people enjoy the simplicity of glasses, while others prefer the aesthetics of contact lenses. Both of these options are effective in correcting vision problems. When choosing between the two, it can help to look at how they work as well as their unique pros and cons.
Understanding glasses
Glasses are the traditional option for vision care and correction. The optometrist will create a custom prescription for each patient during their eye exam. Patients will look at an eye chart through various lenses to determine an appropriate corrective option. They can then choose from frames of all shapes and sizes, including round, square, and rectangular styles in various colors.
Advantages and disadvantages
Glasses have many advantages. They can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Additionally, they are highly customizable, with countless frames to choose from. Glasses can also be more cost-effective than contact lenses, with pairs lasting a year or more. Another pro is that they are easy to care for and clean. Patients may simply wipe them with a microfiber cleaning cloth and eyeglass spray. As a result, there is little room for eye infections with proper maintenance.
While effective, a disadvantage of glasses is that they can limit a patient's range of motion and field of vision. For instance, they may fall off or get knocked off while playing sports. Other patients prefer not to choose glasses because they do not match their personal style. That said, the right frames can work as an accessory.
How contact lenses work
Contact lenses are clear, curved corrective lenses that fit over the surface of the eye. (An optometrist will measure a patient's eyes during an exam to achieve a seamless fit.) Contacts can correct vision problems like glasses, save for severe astigmatism. However, they are a discreet alternative to glasses as they do not require frames.
Pros and cons
The most attractive feature of contact lenses is that they are virtually invisible. No one will notice the patient wearing them once they are in. Further, they do not limit how a patient can move or their field of vision. Many find that contacts feel more natural to them.
However, they tend to be more costly than glasses because patients must replace them more often. Next, they are not ideal for everyone, such as those with dry eyes. They also increase the risk of eye infection and irritation. Fortunately, these risks are minimized by regularly disinfecting, removing, and replacing the lenses.
Choosing appropriate vision care
Both glasses and contacts are great options for vision care and correction. Glasses are the perfect fit for patients who prioritize convenience and affordability. Patients who do not want to bother with frames may benefit from contacts if they can handle their maintenance.
Schedule an eye exam today
If you are still on the fence about whether glasses or contacts are right for you, contact our Carmi office. An optometrist can discuss vision care more thoroughly during a consultation or eye exam. Call (618) 374-0513 today to get started.
Request an appointment here: https://www.carmieyecare.com or call Carmi Eye Care at (618) 374-0513 for an appointment in our Carmi office.
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