Some people need the sturdy, custom-fitted options that only conventional toric contact lenses for astigmatism can provide. If that describes you, then you may want to consider Optima Toric lenses from Bausch & Lomb. These long-lasting lenses are for daily wear and removal, and will last for several months and possibly up to a year if you take good care of them.
Most individuals tend to opt for disposable toric lenses because of the convenience of not having to worry too much about cleaning schedules. But not everyone makes this choice. Some people are worried about the effect on the environment from throwing things away too easily. Others need a custom fitted solution that can’t be met by disposable lenses. For these people, a conventional contact lens that is rarely replaced is usually the answer.
Optima Toric lenses are crafted for the specific purpose of lasting for months. Bausch & Lomb uses a patented lathe-cutting technology that results in a prism ballast optimally designed to compensate for astigmatism by sitting correctly on the eye. The lenses are available for many different custom prescription orders.
Bausch & Lomb uses a polymer called hefilcon B for making these lenses. It is a sturdy substance built to last instead of wearing down easily as do most disposable lenses. This polymer absorbs water when undergoing the nightly cleaning cycle, filling up to 45% of itself with water that helps the lenses feel silky smooth while you wear them during the day.
Disposable lenses that are replaced frequently have easy requirements for lens care, and can sometimes be worn for days at a time. Requirements are more strict for lenses that are going to be used for several months at a time. Lenses used for so long make deposit buildups and bacteria a problem that must be correctly managed to maintain good eye health and keep your lenses feeling great. There are a variety of different chemicals, enzymes, and heating methods available on the market that will help keep bacteria away and your lenses free of protein and lipid buildup. Your eye doctor will recommend the ideal cleaning method and schedule for you based on your individual needs.
Optima Toric lenses do their job by sitting atop the cornea and acting as a refractive prism. When you have astigmatism, the eye is shaped like an oval instead of a sphere and this causes light rays to become distorted. The lenses reverse that effect by compensating for the oval shape and restore you to perfect vision.
In order for the lenses to do their job, they need to sit securely and in the correct position. That is, the heavier part of the lens must be towards the bottom. Sometimes the heavier part is hard to see, since we’re talking about just a slight thickening of the lens. Optima Toric lenses come with three etchings at the bottom of the lens that tell you immediately which side is down, so that you can insert them correctly.
So when should you replace these lenses? That is purely up to your eye doctor, and you should follow his or her advice. Carefully cleaning and disinfecting the lenses as directed will go a long way towards using them for a long time, as well as minimizing the chance of any eye problems.
Whatever your reasons may be for seeking a conventional lens solution, you are likely to find that Optima Toric contact lenses address your needs. They will last a long time and feel great if you clean them properly and follow your doctor’s replacement advice.
David Long is an expert who writes about toric contact lenses. If you suffer from astigmatism, visit MyToricContactLenses.com to find the best deals and lowest prices for Optima Toric lenses and other toric lens brands.



