When most people think of contact lenses, they often imagine soft, flexible lenses that conform to the shape of the eye. However, another type of contact lens that offers unique benefits is the Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lens.
But what exactly are RGP lenses, and why might someone choose them over soft lenses?
The Basics of RGP Lenses
Rigid Gas Permeable lenses, sometimes called "hard lenses," are made from a firm, durable plastic material. Unlike soft lenses, which are made mostly of water, RGP lenses hold their shape when you take them out of your eye.
Despite their firmness, they allow oxygen to pass through them, which is crucial for maintaining the health of the eye. This is why they are called "gas permeable".
Because RGP lenses are smaller and firmer than soft lenses, they sit directly on the tear film over the cornea and move slightly with each blink. This feature helps keep the lenses clean and clear, as each blink helps to flush away debris.
Why Choose RGP Lenses
While soft lenses are more popular due to their comfort and disposability, RGP lenses offer several benefits that make them worth considering:
1. Sharper Vision – Since RGP lenses are rigid, they maintain their shape on the eye, which can result in sharper, clearer vision compared to soft lenses. This makes them a great choice for people with astigmatism or those who require sharper vision than a soft lens can deliver.
2. Healthier for the Eye – RGP lenses allow more oxygen to reach the eye’s surface, which is essential for long-term eye health. This can reduce the risk of eye infections and other complications that sometimes occur with soft lenses, especially when worn for extended periods.
3. Customization – RGP lenses can be custom-made to fit your eye’s unique shape and prescription, which is especially useful for people with complex vision issues or irregularly shaped corneas (i.e. keratoconus) that aren’t easily corrected with soft lenses.
RGP Lenses Are Not For Everyone
While RGP lenses can offer superior vision, they can take longer for patients to grow comfortable wearing them.
Because they are less flexible than soft lenses, patients may experience some discomfort initially as their eyes adjust. However, most people find that after a few weeks, the lenses become much more comfortable to wear.
If you’re curious whether RGP lenses are right for you, speak with your eye care professional to learn more!Â