Common Issues with Specialty Lenses & Solutions

Specialty contact lenses have revolutionized vision correction for people with complex eye conditions. From rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses to scleral and hybrid lenses, these advanced options offer sharper vision, greater comfort, and improved eye health. However, like any medical device, specialty lenses can come with challenges. At Mission Optometric Center, we help our patients overcome these issues with expert care, precise fittings, and customized solutions.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses are smaller in diameter and rest directly on the cornea, offering crisp, stable vision and excellent oxygen flow. However, because they’re firm, it’s common for new wearers to feel them on their eyes at first.

Common Issues:

• Lens awareness or discomfort during initial adaptation

• Lenses popping out during blinking or sports

• Dust or debris causing irritation

At Mission Optometric Center, we recommend a gradual wearing schedule so your eyes can adapt comfortably. Proper blink technique and lens centering are also important. If you experience frequent dislodging, we can refine the fit or design to improve stability. Regular professional cleanings help maintain smooth lens surfaces and clear vision.

Hybrid Contact Lenses

Hybrid lenses feature a rigid center for sharp optics and a soft outer skirt for comfort. They’re ideal for patients who need the clarity of RGPs but prefer the feel of soft lenses.

Common Issues:

•          Redness or irritation near the edge of the lens

•          Dryness or difficulty removing the lens at the end of the day

•          Vision fluctuations from debris under the lens

Using preservative-free lubricating drops throughout the day can keep the lens surface moist. If irritation occurs, we evaluate the edge design and refit if necessary. We can also teach proper lens removal techniques to reduce suction and minimize dryness. Many newer hybrid designs use advanced materials that improve moisture retention and oxygen flow.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, creating a reservoir of hydrating saline underneath. They’re especially beneficial for conditions like keratoconus, corneal transplants, or severe dry eye disease.

Common Issues:

• Fogging or cloudiness after several hours of wear

• Tiny air bubbles trapped under the lens

• Difficulty inserting or removing the lenses

Fogging is often related to tear debris or an improper filling solution. We recommend preservative-free saline or specific viscous solutions to reduce deposits. Adjusting your lens care routine and cleaning regimen can also help prevent residue buildup. We provide hands-on training with insertion and removal tools, so patients gain confidence in handling their lenses.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Ortho-K lenses gently reshape your cornea overnight to temporarily correct nearsightedness, allowing you to see clearly during the day without contacts or glasses. This makes them a popular choice for children and active adults seeking freedom from daytime lenses.

Common Issues:

• Mild discomfort during sleep

• Blurred or fluctuating vision in the morning

• Dryness upon waking

Consistency is key - wearing Ortho-K lenses every night ensures a stable reshaping effect. If morning blur occurs, it may indicate a lens fit issue or inadequate overnight wear time. Our optometrist can evaluate your lens design and adjust curvature or alignment to improve comfort and vision quality. Using rewetting drops before insertion and after removal also helps maintain corneal hydration.

See Clearly and Comfortably with Personalized Lens Care

At Mission Optometric Center, we’re committed to helping every patient achieve clear, comfortable vision with specialty lenses designed just for them. Whether you’re exploring RGPs, hybrids, scleral lenses, or Ortho-K, we will guide you through every step of the process - from initial consultation to long-term success.

If you’ve struggled with contact lenses in the past or are ready to explore custom lens options for your unique eyes, we can help. Contact Mission Optometric Center to schedule your specialty contact lens exam and experience the difference that expert fitting and personalized care can make for your vision. Visit our office in San Juan Capistrano, California, or call (949) 496-0552 to book an appointment today.