Are Contact Lenses Right for You?
For many people, glasses are a trusted part of everyday life – but they’re not the only option when it comes to clear, comfortable vision. Contact lenses offer a convenient, discreet, and highly effective alternative that can easily fit into even the busiest lifestyle.
Whether you’re considering contact lenses for the first time, returning to them after a break, or simply curious about what modern lenses can offer, today’s options are more advanced, breathable, and comfortable than ever before.
At John Fell Opticians, we understand that switching to contact lenses can feel like a big step. That’s why our approach is centred on personalised care, expert guidance, and ongoing support, ensuring you feel confident from your very first wear.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of contact lenses available, explain how they work, share practical tips for beginners, and outline what happens during one of our professional contact lens consultations.
Because when fitted correctly, contact lenses don’t just improve how you see – they can enhance how you live.
Why Choose Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses provide a level of visual freedom that many wearers quickly come to appreciate. Sitting directly on the surface of the eye, they move naturally with your gaze, offering uninterrupted peripheral vision without the frames of glasses.
Some of the most common reasons patients choose contact lenses include:
- Greater Freedom for Active Lifestyles
Whether you enjoy sport, fitness, or outdoor pursuits, contact lenses stay securely in place – no slipping frames or fogging lenses to distract you. - Natural Vision
Because lenses sit on the eye itself, there is no distortion from frame edges. Many wearers describe their vision as feeling more natural and immersive. - Aesthetic Preference
Some people simply prefer the look and feel of not wearing glasses or enjoy the flexibility of switching between the two. - Convenience for Special Occasions
Weddings, holidays, professional events…contact lenses allow you to enjoy clear vision without thinking about your glasses. - Compatibility with Sunglasses
Contact lens wearers can choose any sunglasses they like, without needing prescription lenses.
It’s worth remembering that many patients don’t choose between glasses or contacts –they benefit from having both. Glasses remain ideal for relaxing at home or evening wear, while contact lenses provide flexibility throughout the day.
Soft vs. Rigid Lenses Explained
One of the first things we discuss during a consultation is which type of lens best suits your eyes and lifestyle.
Soft Contact Lenses
Soft lenses are the most commonly worn type and are made from flexible, breathable materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the eye.
Benefits include:
- Excellent comfort
- Quick adaptation
- Stable fit
- Ideal for sports
- Suitable for occasional or daily wear
Modern silicone hydrogel lenses have significantly improved oxygen flow, supporting long-term eye health while maintaining comfort.
Soft lenses can correct a wide range of prescriptions, including:
- Short-sightedness
- Long-sightedness
- Astigmatism
- Age-related near vision changes (multifocal lenses)
For most first-time wearers, soft lenses are an excellent starting point.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
Though less common, rigid lenses offer exceptional visual clarity and durability.
They are particularly beneficial for:
- Complex prescriptions
- Higher astigmatism
- Irregular corneas
- Certain medical eye conditions
While they typically require a longer adaptation period, many long-term wearers appreciate the crisp vision they provide.
At John Fell Opticians, we carefully assess whether rigid lenses may offer advantages for your specific eye health and vision issues.
Daily vs. Monthly Lenses
Another key decision is how often you replace your lenses.
Daily Disposable Lenses
These lenses are worn once and discarded at the end of the day.
Why patients love them:
- No cleaning required
- Minimal maintenance
- Extremely convenient
- Ideal for travel
- Lower risk of deposits
They are perfect for busy individuals or those who prefer a simple routine.
Monthly (or Reusable) Lenses
Reusable lenses are worn during the day and cleaned each evening using specialised solution.
Benefits include:
- Cost-effective for regular wear
- Environmentally lighter than single-use lenses
- Available in advanced prescription designs
Success with reusable lenses depends on consistent hygiene, something we will guide you through carefully during your fitting.
There is no universally “better” option; the right choice depends entirely on your preferences and lifestyle.
What a Contact Lens Fitting Involves
A professional contact lens consultation and fitting is essential. Contact lenses are medical devices, and ensuring they fit correctly protects both your vision and eye health.
At John Fell Opticians, our contact lens consultation is thorough yet relaxed, designed to make the process comfortable from the outset.
During your appointment, we will:
- Assess Your Eye Health
We begin with a detailed examination to ensure your eyes are suitable for lens wear. - Take Precise Measurements
The curvature and surface of your eye are measured so we can select lenses that fit perfectly. - Recommend Suitable Options
Based on your prescription, lifestyle, and preferences, we guide you through the best choices. Provide Teaching and Support
If you are new to lenses, we will show you exactly how to:- Insert them safely
- Remove them comfortably
- Care for them properly
There is no rush – we work at your pace until you feel confident.
- Arrange Follow-Up Care
We monitor how your eyes respond and make adjustments if needed, ensuring long-term comfort.
Our goal is to help you succeed with contact lenses from day one.
Tips for Beginners
Starting something new always comes with a learning curve, but most patients adapt far quicker than they expect.
When starting to use contact lenses for the first time, it’s important that you:
- Be patient with yourself.
It often takes a few attempts to master insertion and removal. - Follow the recommended wearing schedule.
Gradually increasing wear time helps your eyes adjust comfortably. - Keep your glasses.
Even dedicated lens wearers need a reliable backup. - Listen to your eyes.
If something feels uncomfortable, remove the lens and seek advice. - Attend your aftercare appointments.
These ensure your lenses continue to perform safely.
Within days, most wearers find lenses become second nature.
Hygiene and Care Essentials
Healthy lens wear starts with good habits.
Always:
- Wash and dry your hands before handling lenses
- Use only recommended cleaning solutions
- Replace lenses as advised
- Clean storage cases regularly
- Never sleep in lenses unless specifically approved
Avoid:
- Tap water contact
- Wearing lenses longer than advised
- Ignoring irritation
Proper care dramatically reduces the risk of infection and keeps your eyes comfortable.
Myths About Contact Lenses
Despite their popularity, a few misconceptions about contact lenses still persist. Let us assure you – these are very far from the truth!
“Contact lenses are uncomfortable.”
Modern lenses are designed with comfort in mind, to the extent that many wearers forget they are even there.
“They’re difficult to manage.”
With proper guidance, handling your lenses quickly becomes routine.
“Only young people can wear them.”
Patients of many ages enjoy contact lenses successfully.
“My prescription is too complex.”
Advances in lens design mean more prescriptions can be corrected than ever before.
“They can get lost behind the eye.”
This is anatomically impossible. Your eyes are protected by a membrane – they aren’t going anywhere behind there.
If you’ve been hesitant due to any of these concerns, it may be worth revisiting the conversation with one of our expert optometrists.
Book Your Contact Lens Consultation
If you’re wondering whether contact lenses could work for you, the best next step is a professional consultation.
At John Fell Opticians, we combine clinical expertise with a personal approach, taking time to understand your needs and ensuring you feel supported throughout the process. Whether you want everyday freedom, clearer vision for sport, or simply the flexibility to alternate with glasses, we are here to help you explore your options with confidence.
Book your contact lens consultation today and discover how effortless clear vision can feel.
The right lenses won’t just change how you see; they’ll transform how you experience the world.
