What Are Specialty Contact Lenses and Who Needs Them?

Contact lenses have come a long way since their invention, offering more than just an alternative to glasses. For individuals with unique vision challenges or irregular eye conditions, specialty contact lenses can provide sharper, more comfortable vision than standard lenses. But what exactly makes these lenses “special,” and how do you know if they’re right for you?

Understanding Specialty Contact Lenses

Specialty contact lenses are customized to address vision problems that traditional soft lenses can’t correct effectively. These lenses are designed to fit the specific shape, curvature, and health of your eyes, providing optimal comfort and vision clarity. Your optometrist at Texas State Optical Liberty can determine which type of specialty lens best fits your needs after a comprehensive eye exam and fitting process.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger than traditional contacts and rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) instead of the cornea. This design makes them ideal for people with irregular corneas, such as those with keratoconus or post-surgical corneal changes. They also help keep the eyes hydrated, making them a great option for those with severe dry eye.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses

Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea while you sleep. In the morning, you can remove them and enjoy clear vision throughout the day—no daytime lenses or glasses required. They are especially effective for managing myopia (nearsightedness), particularly in children.

Gas Permeable (GP) Lenses

Unlike soft lenses, GP lenses maintain their shape on the eye, providing sharper vision for those with high astigmatism, irregular corneas, or presbyopia. They allow oxygen to pass through, keeping the eyes healthy and comfortable for long-term wear.

Who Can Benefit from Specialty Lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are a solution for a wide range of eye conditions and lifestyles. You might benefit from them if you have:

• Keratoconus or corneal irregularities

• Severe dry eye syndrome

• High astigmatism or unusual prescriptions

• Post-LASIK or corneal surgery complications

• Desire for freedom from glasses during the day (Ortho-K)

Even patients who were previously told they couldn’t wear contact lenses may now have options thanks to advancements in specialty lens technology.

The Fitting Process

At Texas State Optical Liberty, our experienced optometrists use advanced imaging technology to map the unique surface of your eyes. This allows for a precise and comfortable fit, ensuring optimal vision and eye health. Because these lenses are customized, follow-up visits are essential to fine-tune the fit and performance.

Upgrade Your Vision with Customized Contact Lenses

Specialty contact lenses can transform how you see and experience the world - especially if you’ve struggled to find comfort or clarity with traditional lenses. From scleral lenses to Ortho-K, there’s a solution for nearly every unique vision need.

If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for regular contact lenses or are looking for better vision correction options, the experts at Texas State Optical Liberty can help. Schedule an eye exam to discover how specialty contact lenses can improve your vision, comfort, and quality of life. Visit our office in Liberty, Texas, or call (936) 336-2273 today.