Spectacles or Contact Lenses?

It's a dilemma that many patients face following an eye examination: whether to choose spectacles or contact lenses?

Some people may have already made up their minds, but for the undecided, here's our beginner's guide to choosing between these two quite different options.

If your preference is for spectacles, the most crucial element is finding a pair that suits you, and this is a very subjective issue. A lot depends on your facial characteristics - dainty features suit small, curved frames, whereas a more masculine jawline can be set off nicely against a pair of larger, chunky glasses. From rimless rectangles to ostentatious ovals, modern spectacle design has never been more varied or fashionable, and a well-chosen pair can provide the finishing style statement for any face, particularly for aficionados of designer brands. Clever frame choice can actually highlight your eyebrows and cheekbones as well, by subtly drawing attention to them.

Conversely, if your eyes are one of your best features, contact lenses will show them off to their best advantage. In the same way that some people prefer to wear spectacles for specific scenarios (such as driving), contact lenses are invaluable in many other situations. Typical examples include playing sports or pursuing certain hobbies, and if you have an outdoor job there is much to be said for not having to worry about raindrops obscuring your view. Indeed, contact lenses work best
when worn outdoors, rather than staring at a computer screen for hours on end. In contrast, this is one situation where spectacles may be more comfortable.

By contrast, contact lenses are slightly more time consuming, and it takes a little while to get used to putting them in and taking them out. However, this process soon becomes as natural as removing make-up or jewellery. Daily disposables (individually suspended in a neutral solution and ready to wear without any cleaning or maintenance) are a quick and easy way into the world of contact lenses. Their high water content and oxygen-permeable design make them so comfortable to wear that you'll completely forget about their presence.

Ultimately,you might decide to have the best of both worlds and use spectacles and contact lenses in different situations. Combining the two options can allow someone with a varied lifestyle to be completely comfortable in every activity.

So why not book an appointment to see our optometrist or call us on 01279 757767.