What Are the Benefits of Wearing Rigid Gas Permeable Contacts?

When most people think of contact lenses, soft lenses usually come to mind. However, rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses remain an excellent option for many patients - especially those with specific vision needs or eye conditions. While they may take a little longer to get used to, RGP lenses offer several unique benefits that can make them worth considering.

What Are Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses?

Rigid gas permeable lenses are small, firm contact lenses made from durable plastic materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the eye. Unlike older hard contact lenses, modern RGP lenses are designed for comfort, breathability, and clear vision.

Clearer, Sharper Vision

One of the biggest advantages of RGP lenses is superior visual clarity. Because these lenses maintain their shape on the eye, they provide more precise focusing than soft lenses. This makes them especially beneficial for patients with:

• Astigmatism

• Keratoconus

• Irregular corneas

• High or complex prescriptions

Many patients notice crisper, more consistent vision compared to soft contacts.

Better Eye Health and Oxygen Flow

RGP lenses allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, which helps maintain healthier eyes over time. Improved oxygen flow reduces the risk of complications such as redness, irritation, or corneal swelling, making RGP lenses a good option for long-term contact lens wearers.

Increased Durability and Longevity

Unlike soft contact lenses that need frequent replacement, RGP lenses are highly durable and can last one to two years with proper care. While the upfront cost may be higher, their longevity often makes them more cost-effective over time.

Easier to Clean and Maintain

Because RGP lenses are made from firm materials, they are less likely to trap deposits like protein and debris. This makes them easier to clean and helps reduce the risk of eye infections when proper hygiene is followed.

Excellent Option for Dry Eyes

Many patients with dry eye symptoms find RGP lenses more comfortable than soft contacts. Their smaller size allows more natural tear exchange under the lens, which can help keep the eyes feeling fresher throughout the day.

Stable Fit and Consistent Vision

RGP lenses are custom-fitted to your eyes and maintain their shape with every blink. This results in more stable vision, especially for patients who struggle with shifting or rotating soft lenses.

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Today

Rigid gas permeable contact lenses offer exceptional vision clarity, improved eye health, durability, and comfort for the right candidates. If you have a complex prescription, astigmatism, dry eyes, or are looking for a long-lasting contact lens option, RGP lenses may be an excellent choice for you.

Schedule a contact lens exam at Gwinnett Eye Clinic to learn whether rigid gas permeable contact lenses are right for you. Visit our office in Duluth, Georgia, or call (470) 279-4900 to book an appointment today.