The choice of which lens is right for you should be based only on an examination by your doctor or eye care professional, not over the phone. Be careful about buying cheap contact lenses, they may not be the quality you want; discounted quality contact lenses are the most desirable. Always buy from a reputable company; you can buy discount contact lenses without a prescription, but the company is selling you a prescription device as if it were an over-the-counter device, in violation of FTC regulations - selling you lenses without having a prescription from you.

Contact lens wearers are usually surprised and happy with the level of comfort that lenses provide. In the U.S. contact lens marketplace, 82 percent wear soft lenses, 16 percent wear rigid gas-permeable lenses and only 2 percent wear hard lenses.

While the ability to hold water increases the oxygen permeability of soft lenses, it increases their fragility quotient as well. Extended wear contact lenses are used for overnight or continuous wear ranging from one to six nights or up to 30 days. Rigid gas permeable contact lenses are more durable, resistant to deposit buildup, and generally give a clearer, crisper vision.

You can mark rigid lenses to show which lens is for which eye; they don't rip or tear, so they're easy to handle. Disposable lenses don't come with instructions for cleaning and disinfecting, while those labeled specifically for planned replacement do. The length of continuous lens wear depends on the lens type and your doctor's evaluation of your tolerance for overnight wear.

Soft lenses are easier to adjust and are much more comfortable than rigid lenses, because they conform to the eye and absorb and hold water. Keep in mind contact lenses are often more complex than appears. Soft lenses have the added benefit in that soft lenses aren't as likely as rigid lenses to pop out or get foreign material like dust underneath.

People who have good distance vision but need help for reading can get a monovision reading lens for one eye. Extra-thin soft lenses are on the market for very sensitive people.

Before you buy online, check to see if there are any testimonials at the online supplier's website. When you place your contact lens order, request the manufacturer's written patient information for your contact lenses; it'll give you important risk and benefit information as well as instructions for use. Always ask what rebates are available.

Always buy from a reputable company; you can buy contact lenses without a prescription, but the company is selling you a prescription device as if it were an over-the-counter device violating FTC regulations by selling you contact lenses without having your prescription. Buy your contact lenses from a supplier you're familiar with and know is reliable or has name familiarity When you receive your order, if you think you've received an incorrect contact lens, check with your doctor or eye care professional right away; don't accept any substitution unless your eye care professional approves it.

Check out how long the online supplier has been in business before you buy. Focus on value, not just the price; most people looking for the best price are really looking for the best value. Make sure you have a current, valid prescription when you order contact lenses.

The FDA has approved extended-wear lenses for use up to seven days before removal for cleaning; but there are risks with use of extended-wear lenses even for one night. Always throw away disposable lenses after the recommended wearing period. Under the binding down of a rigid contact lens during sleep, the flow of tears and oxygen to the cornea is reduced; lack of oxygen leaves the eye vulnerable to infection.

If your eyes become red or irritated, remove the lenses immediately and consult with your doctor. Extended-wear rigid lenses can cause unexpected, undesirable, reshaping of the cornea. Don't wear lenses any longer than they're prescribed for, nor when sleeping unless you are otherwise directed.

If you're looking for cheap contact lenses, you may find that cheap materials or other ways of cutting costs will affect the quality you'll want for your precious eyes. Laser surgery and its risks can be frightening and too expensive for some people; contacts can provide a safe, comfortable and time-tested alternative. Make sure you've done your homework before you buy any pair of discount contact lenses.