Extended Wear Contact Lenses in Beverly Hills
Extended wear contact lenses are approved to be worn overnight, so patients can sleep in their lenses for a set number of days. They are an option for patients with busy schedules or those who want clear vision when they wake up. Visioncare Associates has fit specialty contact lenses since 1964, and Dr. Shily evaluates each patient before recommending extended wear.
What Are Extended Wear Contact Lenses?
Extended wear lenses may be a good fit for patients who:
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Work long or irregular shifts
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Travel often
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Have trouble inserting and removing lenses every day
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Want clear vision during the night or right after waking
Dr. Shily reviews the patient’s eye health and lens history before recommending extended wear. Patients with dry eye, a history of eye infections or certain corneal conditions may be better suited to daily wear lenses.
Safety and Extended Wear
Sleeping in contact lenses raises the risk of eye infections, including corneal ulcers. The risk is lower when patients follow the wearing schedule, replace their lenses on time and keep up with follow-up visits.
Patients should remove their lenses and call the office right away if they notice:
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Eye redness or pain
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Blurred vision
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Sensitivity to light
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Discharge from the eye
The Extended Wear Fitting Process
1. Eye Exam and Health Check
Dr. Shily examines the cornea and the front of the eye with a Haag-Streit biomicroscope to make sure the eye is healthy enough for overnight wear.
2. Lens Selection and Trial
The patient tries a lens approved for extended wear. Dr. Shily checks the fit and vision before the lens is worn overnight.
3. Wearing Schedule
Many patients start with daily wear, then move to overnight wear after their eyes adjust. Dr. Shily sets a schedule based on how the eyes respond, including when to remove, clean or replace the lenses.
4. Follow-Up Visits
Regular follow-up visits are important for extended wear patients. Dr. Shily checks the cornea for signs of low oxygen, irritation or infection.