Ditching the Blur: How Hybrid Lenses Revolutionize Your Vision!
, by nanmoon, 3 min reading time
Hybrid lenses offer the sharp vision of GP lenses and the comfort of soft lenses. They feature a rigid gas-permeable center with a soft outer skirt, ideal for those with corneal astigmatism, presbyopia, or those seeking multifocal options. While GP lenses provide durability and clarity but need adjustment, and soft disposable lenses are convenient yet costly and wasteful, hybrids blend the best of both. They may require more fitting time and training but deliver exceptional comfort and visual acuity.
How do Hybrid Lenses differ from GP Lenses vs. Disposable Soft Lenses
GP lens
Also known as rigid gas-permeable lenses or hard contact lenses, these lenses are also gas-permeable. They are not to be confused with hard contact lenses that were used in the past. They were made out of polymethyl methacrylate a type plastic that was lightweight, effective in correcting eyesight, but did not permit oxygen or any other gases through. Modern gas permeable lens technology is a much newer version of soft lenses. First introduced in late 1970s, they are now the most popular choice for those who want a rigid lens. These lenses contain silicone which makes them more flexible compared to old-fashioned lenses. The lenses are also oxygen-permeable, so they're more comfortable and keep the eyes healthy.
Soft lenses do not offer the same advantages as GP lenses. Since they are made out of firm plastic they maintain their shape even when you blink. This means they provide sharper vision compared to soft lenses. The lenses are more durable. They can still be broken, but not as easily. The lenses are made from materials which do not contain any water. Therefore, lipids or proteins that come with tears will not stick to the lenses.
So why don't we all wear GPs? They may not be the first choice for some people. One reason soft lenses are preferred is that they're more comfortable. GP lenses require some time to adjust to. If you stop wearing them for a while, you will have to start the process again. Also, GPs are designed so that they move around on your eye as you blink. This means there is a greater risk of dust and debris getting underneath the lens.
Disposable soft lenses
Disposable Soft Lenses are Contact Lenses which are removed at the end the day and thrown away. In the morning, you apply a fresh pair. These lenses are becoming increasingly popular amongst eye care practitioners as well as patients due to their convenience and benefits.
Be aware that "daily-disposable" and "daily-wear" lenses are not the same thing. Daily wear lenses must be removed at night and replaced the following morning. Depending on the brand, these lenses can be replaced daily or weekly. You may also hear "disposable lenses" referred to as daily-wear lenses that are thrown out every two weeks. The term "daily disposable" means that the lenses will be discarded daily and replaced.
Why throw away your lenses so frequently? Your eyes will be healthier and more comfortable. As your tears accumulate, calcium, proteins, and lipids can cause your lenses to become uncomfortable and more susceptible to infection. The daily disposable lenses tend to be thinner and less noticeable.
Soft disposable lenses have their own shortcomings, despite all of their benefits. As an example, they are more expensive, and produce more trash, which is something people are increasingly concerned with as we work to protect our environment.
Hybrid lens
Hybrids combine the benefits of gas permeable and soft lenses. These hybrid lenses work well for many patients who have corneal astigmatism. They are available in different styles including multifocal. A hybrid lens has a rigid gas-permeable center with a soft outer skirt. It provides the comfort and clarity of a flexible lens while maintaining the flexibility of a gas-permeable lens. Candidates for hybrid lenses include
Regular corneal astigmatism
Soft toric lens movements can be problematic for some people
Presbyopia combined with astigmatism is a common condition.
Multifocal Patients who want better vision that soft lenses cannot provide
People who are looking for the sharpness of gas-permeable lenses, but do not like how they feel.
Hybrid lenses are not always the best option for everyone. They can be expensive and take more time to fit, and they require additional training and education in order to use them properly. The benefits of hybrid lenses, such as crystal-clear sight, comfort and freedom from glasses, far outweigh their minor drawbacks.