Disposable Contact Lens Use
 

Disposable contact lenses can be a useful option for some contact lens users, and there seems to be a trend toward increased use of this type of lens. Even disposable lenses that are discarded on a daily basis are available, although most people use the type of lens that is discarded after 2 weeks. Some reasons and situations for which disposable lenses may be useful include:

● Rapid deposit formation on lenses, with or without the development of giant papillary conjunctivitis.

● Having to replace contact lenses frequently, whether it be because of lens deterioration, damage, or the losing of lenses.

● Sensitivity to solutions used to clean or disinfect lenses.

● Difficulty in finding another type of lens that is equally comfortable for an individual.

Some problems associated with disposable lenses include:
● A higher risk of infection (corneal ulcer), whether or not the lenses are used extended wear.

● A higher cost than most lenses. At wholesale cost, the 8 six-pack boxes needed to replace a lens every two weeks costs about $150 a year. One may be able to buy 4 sets of daily wear lenses at this cost.

● A tendency to abuse the use of the lenses, such as wearing a lens for more than two weeks, an absence of lens disinfection, and wearing the lenses in situations not usually recommended, such as swimming. (These factors may lead to the increased risk of infection).

● Problems using the lens with dry eye. Disposable lenses require more eye fluid to keep them hydrated.

There are definite situations where disposable lenses are appropriate, and some situations where they should be avoided. Exercising caution with the use of any contact lens helps to prevent complications.