Wearing Contact Lenses Vs. Wearing Glasses It is estimated that more than 100 million people around the world wear contact lenses. They are obviously very popular and technology regularly improves them making them even more desirable. But there are disadvantages so it might not be a good idea to rush into disposing of your glasses. Of course, the major benefit of contacts is that they fix your vision problems without the need for eyeglasses. Other people will not be aware that you wear them so there is no impact on your appearance as they would be with glasses (however, you do have the option of changing the appearance of your eyes as there are many decorative contacts available for this purpose). You also avoid other irritating problems relating to wearing glasses: •
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The fact that you have to have what you might consider an “irritating apparatus” on your face which you might find uncomfortable. Glasses get misty in some conditions making it difficult to see. The same problem occurs in rain and snow. Poor peripheral vision with glasses. Problems playing sports or undertaking any activity where glasses might be damaged or be knocked off.
Of course the big thing in favour of glasses is that they are worn externally so there is no risk of any damage to the eye and they require minimal maintenance. Not only that but once you have bought a pair of glasses they should last a number of years. Contacts lenses are internal devices and require careful handling. This leads to their disadvantages: • •
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As they are worn in the eye the chances of getting an eye infection are quite high. To minimise the risk of infection you need to have a regular routine of removing, disinfecting and cleaning them. You can avoid this by using disposable lenses but the cost will be greater. You have to keep buying replacement lenses so this is an ongoing cost and will cost more than buying glasses. It is important to have regular eye checkups when wearing contacts and this is another cost to bear in mind.
In conclusion contacts are superior to glasses in several ways but you must accept that they will cost more and you must look after your eyes and your lenses properly. If you cannot be this disciplined you are better off wearing glasses. How to purchase In the case of both glasses and contact lenses you should start by getting a proper eye examination and prescription. Having done that you can save a significant amount by buying online.
Discount contact lenses can be purchased from several good online retailers and you will get exactly the same lenses but you will be best buying a small quantity locally in the first instance to make sure that those prescribed are comfortable. Purchasing eyeglasses online is a bit more complex and you may be better buying your first pair locally. You can then use this pair as the basis for subsequent online purchases.