Whether you’re new to contact lenses or a seasoned wearer, replacing your contact lenses on time is important for your eye health. Some lenses require changing daily, while others can last up to a month before you need a new pair.
Forgetting or delaying the replacement of your lenses could lead to discomfort, infections, or even long-term complications. So, always ensure you’re following the manufacturer’s and your eye doctor’s instructions for the care and replacement of your contacts.
Different Types of Contact Lenses
Not all contact lenses are created equal, and their replacement schedules vary depending on the type you use.
Daily Disposable Lenses
Daily disposable lenses are designed for single use. You wear them during the day and discard them before going to bed. These lenses are ultra-convenient and ideal for people with busy lifestyles or those prone to eye allergies, as they eliminate the need for cleaning and storage.
Monthly Lenses
Monthly lenses can be reused for up to 30 consecutive days. They require nightly cleaning and storage, but are slightly more economical for frequent wearers due to their longer lifespan.
Extended Wear Lenses
Extended-wear lenses are designed for continuous use, even while sleeping, for up to 30 days, depending on the manufacturer. But they must be approved for extended-wear use by your eye doctor and require diligent hygiene practices to minimize risks.
Recommended Replacement Schedules
The manufacturer sets the replacement schedule for each type of lens based on safety and usability guidelines. Following these recommendations is non-negotiable to avoid potential eye health issues.
- Daily disposable lenses: Replace every day after a single use.
- Monthly lenses: Replace every 30 days, even if they haven’t been worn daily.
- Extended-wear lenses: Replace according to your doctor’s recommendations, typically within 7 to 30 days, depending on brand.
Never wear your lenses beyond their recommended schedule. If in doubt, err on the side of caution and replace them sooner rather than later.
Risks of Overwearing Lenses
Pushing your lenses beyond their lifespan may seem harmless, particularly if the lenses themselves still feel comfortable. Nonetheless, overwearing your lenses can lead to serious consequences for your eye health.
Eye Infections
Old lenses can accumulate bacteria, protein deposits, and debris, creating a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms. This increases your risk of developing eye infections like conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers.
Discomfort & Dryness
Worn-out lenses lose their ability to retain moisture and oxygen permeability, causing irritation, redness, and dryness. This discomfort may worsen the longer you wear the worn-out lenses.
Long-term Damage
Chronic overuse of lenses can lead to hypoxia, where your eyes don’t receive sufficient oxygen. Over time, this can result in corneal damage or scarring, impacting your vision and requiring medical intervention.
Factors Influencing Replacement Schedules
While manufacturer guidelines provide the baseline, several factors can influence how often you should replace your lenses.
Personal Eye Health
Certain conditions, such as dry eye syndrome or allergies, may require more frequent lens replacement. Always inform your eye doctor about any underlying issues to ensure your wearing schedule suits your needs.
Lens Care Routine
Proper cleaning and storage can preserve the usability of monthly lenses up to the end of their maximum lifespan. On the other hand, poor hygiene increases the risk of contamination, even if you’re within the suggested lifespan of your lenses.
Environment
The environment you’re exposed to can also affect your lenses. Dusty, windy, or dry conditions can wear out your lenses faster or cause discomfort, prompting earlier replacement.
Usage Patterns
If you alternate between wearing lenses and glasses, your lenses are more likely to last until their expiry date. But even occasional wearers must follow the manufacturer’s predefined replacement schedule.
Tips for Remembering to Replace Lenses
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to lose track of when your lenses need replacing. Try these tips to stay on top of your schedule:
- Set calendar reminders: Use your smartphone to create recurring reminders for lens replacement
- Use a marked lens case: Some lens cases have built-in calendars or dials to help track your replacement dates
- Create a habit: Link replacing your lenses to another consistent routine, like brushing your teeth at night
Consulting with an Eye Doctor
While general replacement schedules are helpful, individualized advice from your eye doctor is irreplaceable. Never hesitate to ask questions or share concerns during your appointments. After all, we’re your best partner in maintaining optimal eye health!
Regular eye exams can:
- Identify any changes in your vision that might warrant a swap in lens type or brand.
- Spot early signs of complications before they become serious.
- Customize your lens-wearing schedule to accommodate lifestyle or health changes..
Protect Your Eyes by Keeping Your Contacts Fresh
Your eyes deserve the best care, and staying on top of your contact lens replacement routine is a small but powerful step. Whether you choose daily disposables, bi-weekly lenses, or extended wear options, remember that sticking to a safe schedule helps you avoid unnecessary risks and maintain clear, comfortable vision.
Contact our team at Total Vision Lake Elsinore to book your contact lens exam and fitting if you’re exploring contact lenses for the first time or have concerns about your current contact.
