Contact Lenses & Specialty Lens FAQs

Below are answers to some of the most common questions patients ask when considering contact lenses or specialty hard-to-fit options. These FAQs cover fitting fees, annual lens costs, Scleral lenses for keratoconus or severe dry eye, Ortho-K overnight lenses, and toric or multifocal fits.

If you are interested in contact lenses and want a complete overview of our fitting process, you can learn more about our Contact Lens Exams & Specialty Lens Services, including diagnostic trial lenses, corneal topography, and custom lens care.

How much does a contact lens prescription exam cost, and why is it priced differently than a glasses exam?

A contact lens exam involves specialized fitting procedures, trial lens evaluations, and follow-up care, which increases the time and expertise required compared to a glasses exam. Out-of-pocket costs typically range from $60 to $120+ beyond the base comprehensive exam fee, depending on whether you need standard daily/monthly lenses or complex toric/multifocal fits.

How often do I need to get a new contact lens exam and prescription update?

Contact lens prescriptions are legally valid for 1 year. Annual exams are required to monitor corneal health, check for lens-induced dryness or lack of oxygen (hypoxia), and update your prescription as your vision evolves.

How much do standard soft contact lenses cost per year?

Annual contact lens supply costs depend on the wear schedule and brand:

• Daily Disposable Lenses: $500 to $900+ per year (includes a fresh pair every day with no cleaning solutions required).
• Bi-Weekly / Monthly Lenses: $250 to $450 per year (plus solution and cleaning supplies).

Can people with bifocals or astigmatism wear contact lenses?

Yes. Modern contact lens designs accommodate complex visual needs:

• Astigmatism: Corrected with custom Toric contact lenses that remain stabilized on the eye.
• Bifocals / Presbyopia: Corrected with Multifocal contact lenses (which feature multiple focal zones for near, intermediate, and distance vision) or Monovision fittings.

Are there specialty contact lenses specifically designed for severe dry eye?

Yes. Scleral lenses are uniquely designed to treat severe, chronic dry eyes. Because they vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of the eye, they trap a continuous reservoir of sterile, preservative-free saline against the eye, keeping the corneal surface constantly hydrated throughout the day.

What are scleral lenses, and how do they help conditions like keratoconus or severe dry eye?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter, gas-permeable lenses that vault entirely over the sensitive corneal surface and rest on the white sclera. For keratoconus, they create a smooth optical surface over a cone-shaped, irregular cornea to restore sharp vision. For dry eyes, the fluid reservoir provides non-stop ocular hydration and barrier protection.

How do Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses differ from standard soft contact lenses?

RGP lenses are made of a firm, durable plastic that allows high levels of oxygen to pass directly through to the cornea. Unlike flexible soft lenses that conform to the eye's shape, RGPs hold a rigid shape on the eye, providing crisper visual optics for high astigmatism and irregular corneas.

How do I clean, care for, and store custom specialty contact lenses safely?

• Daily Rinsing & Storage: Use doctor-recommended hydrogen peroxide-based cleaning systems or specialized multi-purpose solutions formulated specifically for RGP/Scleral materials. Never use tap water or saliva.
• Insertion Saline: Scleral lenses must only be filled with preservative-free sterile saline prior to application.
• Storage Case Hygiene: Wash hands before handling, clean cases daily with fresh solution, air-dry cases face down, and replace cases every 1 to 3 months.