Soft Contact Lenses

Soft Contact Lenses: A Complete Guide

Soft contact lenses are the most popular option for correcting vision problems (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia) thanks to their comfort and adaptability. They are made of hydrophilic materials (such as hydrogel or silicone hydrogel) that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea.

Types of Soft Contact Lenses

1. According to Their Duration

Type Replacement Advantages

Daily

Maximum hygiene, no maintenance.

Bi-weekly

Cost-benefit balance.

Monthly

Ideal for extended wear.

Annual (rarely used)

Require daily cleaning.

2. According to Their Function

Spherical: Correct myopia or hyperopia.

Toric: For astigmatism (stabilized design).

Multifocal: Presbyopia (near and far vision).

Therapeutic: Used for dry eye or post-surgical applications.

3. Materials

Hydrogel: High water content (low oxygen).

Silicone hydrogel: Higher oxygen content (recommended for extended wear).

Advantages

✔ Quick adaptation (comfortable from the first use).

✔ Available in disposable versions (more hygienic daily wear).

✔ Options for almost all refractive errors.

✔ UV protection (some brands).

Risks and Care

Infections (due to misuse or inadequate cleaning).

Dry eye syndrome (especially with traditional hydrogel).

Corneal hypoxia (if worn longer than recommended).

Basic Care:

Wash hands before handling.

Use a single cleaning solution (never water or saliva).

Respect the replacement time.

Do not sleep with them (unless they are for extended wear).

Who Can Use Them?

Ideal Candidates:

People with myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia.

Those seeking alternatives to glasses for sports or aesthetics.

Contraindications:

Active eye infections (conjunctivitis, keratitis).

Severe uncontrolled dry eye.

Allergies to lens materials.

Silicone hydrogel lenses allow up to 5 times more oxygen than traditional lenses.

Daily lenses reduce the risk of infection by 50% compared to reusable lenses (AAO).

In Mexico, 60% of contact lens wearers prefer soft lenses (Mexican Optometry Association).