Who Can Wear RGP Contact Lenses?

If you’ve ever struggled with blurry vision or inconsistent comfort from soft contact lenses, you’ve probably wondered if there’s a better option out there.

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses might be the solution you’re looking for. They’re durable, provide sharp vision, and are tailored for high prescriptions or specific eye conditions.

Whether you’re curious about how RGP lenses work, who they’re best for, or how to care for them, this guide has you covered.

What is an RGP contact lens?

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses are made from durable, oxygen-permeable materials that allow your eyes to “breathe” while offering vision clarity.

Unlike soft lenses, which are flexible and mold to your eye, RGP lenses maintain their shape. This rigidity helps correct refractive errors with more precision and makes them ideal for people with astigmatism, keratoconus, or irregular corneas.

RGP lenses are custom-made to fit your eyes. They are smaller in diameter compared to soft lenses and rest directly on the cornea. This design allows for sharper vision correction and less risk of protein and debris buildup.

And while they might take some time to get used to, RGP lenses can last longer than soft lenses when properly cared for, often making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

RGP contact lenses advantages

RGP lenses offer several benefits that make them a great option for many wearers:

• Sharper vision – Their rigid structure provides clearer vision, especially for individuals with astigmatism or irregular corneas.
• Durability – RGP lenses are long-lasting and resistant to tears or damage, often lasting up to a year or more with proper care.
• Healthier for eyes – These lenses allow more oxygen to reach the cornea compared to many soft lenses.
• Cost-effective – Although the initial cost might be higher, their durability and longevity make them a cost-effective choice over time.
• Less build-up – Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses are less prone to protein and debris buildup, keeping your vision clearer and more comfortable.

RGP contact lenses disadvantages

RGP lenses also come with some downsides to consider:

• Adjustment period – It can take a few weeks to get used to the feel of RGP lenses, as they don’t mold to your eye like soft lenses.
• Less initial comfort – RGP lenses are smaller and rigid, so they may feel less comfortable at first compared to soft lenses.
• Easier to dislodge – Their small size makes them more likely to move out of place or fall out during high-impact activities.
• Specialized care – RGP lenses require specific solutions and cleaning routines, which may take extra time and effort.
• Not for all activities – They may not be ideal for sports or environments where lenses are prone to dislodging.

Who are RGP contact lenses best suited for?

Hard vs. soft contact lens

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of RGP (hard) lenses and soft lenses to help you understand their differences:

Feature	Hard Lens	Soft Lens
Material	Rigid, oxygen-permeable plastic	Soft, flexible hydrogel or silicone hydrogel
Vision Clarity	Provides sharper, more precise vision, especially for astigmatism or irregular corneas	Comfortable but may not offer the same clarity for advanced corrections
Comfort	Less comfortable initially; requires an adjustment period	Instantly comfortable; easy to adapt to
Durability	Long-lasting; can last up to a year or more with proper care	Shorter lifespan; disposable (daily, weekly, or monthly)
Cost	Higher initial cost but more cost-effective over time	Lower upfront cost but recurring expenses due to replacements
Size	Smaller; covers only part of the cornea	Larger; covers the entire cornea
Suitability	Ideal for irregular corneas, keratoconus, or dry eyes	Suitable for most prescriptions and general use
Maintenance	Requires specialized cleaning and care solutions	Easier to clean; uses multipurpose solutions
Risk of Dislodging	More likely to dislodge, especially during sports or high-impact activities	Less likely to dislodge due to their larger size and flexibility
Breathability	High oxygen permeability; healthier for long-term wear	Varies by material; silicone hydrogel offers good permeability
Protein Buildup	Less prone to protein and debris buildup	More prone to buildup over time

How to remove a stuck gas permeable contact lens

Removing a stuck RGP contact lens can be a bit tricky, but it’s manageable with patience and care. Follow these steps to safely remove the lens:

Always handle your lenses with clean hands, and avoid using sharp objects or fingernails to remove them.

Contact lens solution for gas permeable lenses

RGP contact lenses are made from durable, oxygen-permeable materials, which require specific care solutions to maintain their longevity and effectiveness.

Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses are not compatible with typical multipurpose solutions used for soft contacts. Using the wrong solution can damage the lens material, reduce comfort, and impair vision clarity.

Some popular solutions designed specifically for RGP lenses include:

• Boston Advance Conditioning Solution (Bausch + Lomb)
• Optimum by Lobob Wetting and Rewetting Drops
• Clear Care Plus with HydraGlyde
• Unique pH Multi-Purpose Solution

Frequently Asked Questions About RGP Contact Lenses

1. What is a gas permeable contact lens?

A gas permeable (RGP) contact lens is a rigid, oxygen-permeable lens designed to provide sharp vision and durability. Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses maintain their shape. They are ideal for correcting astigmatism, keratoconus, or irregular corneas.

2. How long do RGP lenses last?

RGP lenses can last up to a year or more with proper care and cleaning. Their durability makes them a cost-effective choice compared to disposable soft lenses.

3. Are RGP lenses better than soft lenses?

RGP lenses offer sharper vision, durability, and reduced buildup, making them better for certain conditions like astigmatism. However, soft lenses provide more comfort and are easier to adapt to, making them ideal for general use.

4. How do I care for my RGP lenses daily?

Clean and disinfect your RGP lenses with a solution specifically designed for hard lenses. Rinse with saline solution before inserting and store them in a clean case filled with conditioning solution overnight.

5. How much are RGP contact lenses?

The cost of RGP lenses depends on factors like customization, prescription strength, and whether they’re for a specific condition like keratoconus. While the upfront cost is higher than soft lenses, their long lifespan often makes them more economical over time.

Shop RGP Contact Lenses From 1-800-GET-LENS