Types of Contact Lenses

Contact lenses have transformed how millions of people see the world — offering a comfortable, convenient alternative to glasses and freeing wearers from frames without compromising vision quality. At Buffalo’s Best Opticians, we’re here to help you understand the many types of contact lenses available, so you can choose the best option for your lifestyle and visual needs.

Why Choose Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are small, prescription lenses worn directly on the eye’s surface to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Unlike glasses, contact lenses move with your eye and provide a full field of view without frames or reflections.

Whether you’re active, involved in sports, or simply want a glasses-free lifestyle, there’s likely a contact lens type designed for you. But before fitting you with contact lenses, our specialists start with a comprehensive eye exam — ensuring the perfect prescription and fit. 

Primary Contact Lens Types

Contact lenses can vary by material, wear schedule, replacement schedule, and purpose. Below are the most common types of contact lenses you’ll encounter.

1. Soft Contact Lenses

Soft contact lenses are the most widely prescribed type of contact lenses due to their comfort and ease of adaptation. Made from flexible, oxygen-permeable materials, soft lenses allow oxygen to reach the cornea and are generally easy for first-time wearers to use.

Subtypes include:

• Daily Wear Soft Lenses – Worn during the day and removed at night.
• Daily Disposable Lenses – Worn once and discarded daily — ideal for convenience and hygiene.
• Planned Replacement Lenses – Replaced on a set schedule (bi-weekly or monthly).
• Extended Wear Lenses – Designed for longer continuous use (sometimes up to several nights, per doctor’s advice).

Soft lenses can also correct specialized conditions, including dry eyes or astigmatism.

2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses

Also known as hard contact lenses, RGP lenses are made of firm, oxygen-permeable materials and offer exceptionally clear vision and durability. While they may require a short adaptation period, RGP lenses often provide sharper vision, especially for people with astigmatism or irregular corneal shapes.

3. Specialty Contact Lenses

Beyond soft and RGP lenses, there are specialized contact lens types designed for specific visual needs:

• Toric Lenses: For correcting astigmatism.
• Multifocal & Bifocal Contacts: For people who need both near and distance vision correction.
• Hybrid Lenses: Combine a rigid center with a soft outer skirt for greater comfort with sharper vision.
• Scleral Lenses: Large lenses resting on the sclera, ideal for irregular corneas or dry eye conditions.

4. Cosmetic & Colored Contact Lenses

Colored or cosmetic contact lenses enhance or change your eye’s natural look — but these still require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye care professional. Never purchase decorative lenses without a valid prescription, as unsafe products can cause serious eye complications.

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for You

Selecting the right type of contact lenses isn’t just about comfort — it’s about eye health. Your eye doctor will consider your prescription, lifestyle, eye shape, and whether you prefer daily disposables or planned replacements. At Buffalo’s Best Opticians, we provide thorough contact lens fittings, professional advice on contact lens types, and ongoing support to ensure you enjoy the clearest, healthiest vision possible. 

Start Your Search for Contact Lenses in Buffalo, NY

Ready for a world without glasses? Schedule your contact lens exam and fitting at Buffalo’s Best Opticians today. Our experienced opticians will help you explore your options, from everyday soft contacts to specialized lenses. We can tailor your contact lenses to your eyes and lifestyle. Contact us today to find out which contact lenses are right for you if you're in Buffalo or Kenmore, NY!