Extended wear lenses are generally available as a two- weekly or monthly lenses. There are also extended wear lenses for those who need toric lenses for astigmatism and multifocal lenses for presbyopia. Major manufacturers such as Bausch and Lomb, Cooper Vision and Alcon all make their own variation of extended wear lenses. All extended wear lenses will have a silicone hydrogel makeup to allow for the high level of breathability required to wear them for a longer period of time.
Silicone hydrogel allows up to 6 times more oxygen to enter the eye. As you will be sleeping in these lenses, it is highly important for your eyes to have a healthy supply of oxygen and a high level of hydration.
If you’re thinking of using extended wear lenses, we have created a quick guide to get you started.
How do I know when it’s time to change my contact lenses?
Each extended wear lens will give you a guide as to how long it should be worn. Never wear a lens past the time frame as stated by the manufacturer. As everyone’s eyes differ, it could be that you are unable to wear the lenses for as long as stated. If you begin to feel discomfort at any point during the guide time given, it is highly advisable that you take the lenses out. There is also nothing stopping you from taking your lenses out for a clean and reinserting them if your start to experience build up or blurry vision. If you experience discomfort at any time while wearing continuous
Even if lenses are extended wear, they should be not be worn whilst in the shower. We suggest taking the lenses out whilst you shower to avoid infections.
Can you wear 2-week contacts longer?
You should not wear two-weekly contact lenses longer than two weeks. Always follow the manufacturers guides. Of course, if your lenses start feeling uncomfortable beforehand, take them out. It is worth mentioning that a 2-weekly lens that can be worn for two weeks, provided they are removed washed and stored each night but, may only be approved for one week of continuous wear. Pay careful attention to what is stated on the packaging by the manufacturer. If unsure about wearing times, always consult with your optician before wearing extended wear lenses.
What are the dangers of wearing two-weekly lenses longer?
Wearing two-weekly lenses longer than the proposed wearing time can lead to a number of issues including dry eyes, the build-up of deposits, blurry vision, and eye infections. It is not advisable that you wear two-weekly or extended lenses longer than their suggested wearing time. Avoid these complications by following the advise of you optician and suggested guidelines from the manufacturer.
How long can you wear 30-day contacts?
Standard monthly lenses can be worn for 30 days at a time, provided they are taken out, clean and stored each night. These lenses are not suitable for continuous wear as they are not made of the suitable materials.
Are monthly contacts good for 30 days or 30 wears?
Unlike standard monthly contact lenses, extended wear 30 day lenses such as Bausch and Lomb’s Pure Vision2, can be worn for 30 days without removal. The material this type of lens is made from is much more breathable than a standard monthly lens. Added oxygen and moisture is essential for an extended wear lens.
Extended wear lenses are perfect for those who have busy lifestyles and want an easy wear lens that requires minimal maintenance. Click here to browse of extensive collection of extend wear lenses.
