30 Day Contacts vs. LASIK: Which Is Best For You?

The world of vision care has experienced revolutionary breakthroughs, with two specifically obtaining significant attention. One of these breakthroughs is the development and perfection of LASIK surgery. The other is the creation of contact lenses designed to be worn continuously for up to a month.

Both of these breakthroughs have relieved much of the burden for those suffering from vision problems. With either of these solutions, the hassle and irritation of daily contact lens care and wear are largely eliminated (fully, in the case of LASIK). However, not everyone is a candidate for either one or the other. In order to determine which of these vision solutions would be right for you, let’s take a look at what each of these options offers.

The Permanency of LASIK

Using a laser to correct the distortions of the cornea, LASIK surgery has grown wildly in popularity in recent years. Eye surgeons have begun offering payment plans that make the surgery affordable for most of the general public. The surgery eliminates the need for contact lenses or glasses for most of the patients (although there are cases where some form of optical assistance will still be necessary after the surgery). The risks and dangers associated with LASIK are very low, particularly if you use a recommended surgeon with credentials in the field.

However, not everyone is a candidate for LASIK. If you have very sensitive eyes, are under the age of eighteen, or have a doctor’s diagnose of refractive instability (where your eyesight is still growing poorer at a generally rapid pace), you will not be a candidate.

Extended Wear Contact Lenses

On the other hand, there are 30-day contacts, which are a relatively new force on the contact lens market. Contact lens manufacturers such as Wesley-Jessen and Ocular Science have developed contact lenses using silicone hydrogel, which permits far more oxygen to pass through the lens and reach the cornea. This, in turn, makes them far more durable and easier to wear for an extended period of time. The innovative material eliminates the need for daily removal and cleaning, which can be much of the hassle for existing contact lens wearers.

Making the Choice

In the end, the choice is yours. If money is an issue, you may wish to forgo LASIK surgery for the time being. 30 day contact lenses can be a viable alternative that eliminates much of the day to day issues of contact-wearing away from the situation. They are also an excellent alternative, or placeholder, for those who are not currently LASIK candidates, but may be in the future.