Are You Better Off With Glasses Or Contact Lenses
24th October 2011 by Cataracts No CommentsA broad estimate of the number of contract lens wearers worldwide is in excess of one hundred million. 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.
The key benefit of contact lenses is that you can correct your vision problems without having to wear glasses. It will not be obvious to anyone else that you are wearing them so there is no effect on your appearance (however, you do have the option of changing the appearance of your eyes as there are many decorative contacts available for this purpose). Not only that but you don’t have to put up with the following issues relating to glasses:
- The simple fact that you have to wear something on your face may be something that you find irritating and uncomfortable.
- Glasses get misty in some conditions making it difficult to see. The same problem occurs in rain and snow.
- Peripheral vision can be a problem with glasses, the extend depending on the frame design.
- Any activity, such as some sports, where glasses can come off or sustain damage are difficult for glasses wearers.
Of course the big thing in favour of glasses is that they are worn externally so cannot do any damage to the eye and only require a quick clean occasionally. 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:
- The fact that they are placed in the eye means that there is a risk of an eye infection.
- It is important to follow a regular schedule of removing and maintaining lenses to control the infection risk. You can avoid this by using disposable lenses but the cost will be greater.
- Contact lenses need replacing regularly so you are committed to ongoing purchases that will make them more expensive than 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 have to be prepared to spend more and maintain a strict maintenance routine. 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 are available from several reputable online stores 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. These can subsequently be used to help define your purchase online.












































