In [location get='neighborhood'], many of our patients lead busy lives filled with work, family, and screen time. Whether you are in Zoom meetings or running errands, choosing between eyeglasses and contact lenses depends on what works best for you.
At [location get='name'], we help you see the good and bad of both options. This way, you can choose what fits your long-term goals and lifestyle.
What’s the Difference? Glasses vs Contact Lens Prescriptions
This is one of the most common questions we get from patients, and it's a good one. Although both help you achieve corrected vision, your glasses and contact lens prescriptions are not the same.
A glasses prescription measures the correction needed when lenses sit several millimeters in front of the eyes. A contact lens prescription is based on the lens sitting on the eye. This needs precise measurements, such as:
- Base curve (BC): Determines how the lens fits the shape of your eye
- Diameter (DIA): Ensures the lens covers the correct area of your cornea
- Lens type: Whether you need toric, multifocal, or daily disposable contacts
Both prescriptions come from a comprehensive eye exam. However, the contact lens fitting includes extra measurements for safety and comfort.
The Benefits of Contacts vs Glasses
Below, we break down the key points that many of our [location get='neighborhood'] patients consider when choosing between the two. Whether you're shopping for new frames or exploring contact lens options, here’s how both stack up:
Vision Quality
- Contacts provide peripheral vision without obstruction.
- Glasses may slightly limit side vision, but are easier to adjust to.
Cost
- Contacts may cost more over time due to regular replacement and special cleaning solutions.
- Glasses are a one-time purchase but may require upgrades or repairs.
Comfort
- Some patients find wearing contact lenses more convenient for sports and weather conditions.
- Others prefer wearing glasses because there’s no contact with the eye and fewer hygiene demands.
Eye Health
- Contacts can increase the risk of eye infection if not used properly.
- Glasses pose no direct risk to the eye surface but can fog up or slip.
Maintenance
- Contacts require cleaning and proper storage.
- Glasses only need occasional cleaning and adjustments.
How to Choose Between Contact Lenses & Glasses
The best option for you isn’t just about personal preference; it’s about how you live. At [location get='name'], we help patients choose between eyeglasses and contact lenses by looking at their day-to-day routines, vision needs, and comfort levels. Here are six types of patients we often help, and how they tend to choose:
- Working Professionals: If your job requires long hours spent in front of a screen, blue-light-filtering glasses can help reduce eye strain. If you are busy with meetings or on the go, daily contacts can be convenient. They help you look good without any hassle.
- Athletes and Active Adults: Contact lenses provide a wider field of peripheral vision and won’t fog up during workouts or outdoor activities. Plus, they stay put; no slipping frames.
- Teens and College Students: We often recommend a hybrid approach. Contacts during the day, glasses for studying at night. It teaches responsibility while offering comfort and flexibility.
- Seniors: For aging eyes, multifocal lenses are available in both glasses and contacts. Those who struggle with dexterity may prefer glasses, while others love the independence that contacts offer.
- Busy Parents: Contacts are great for multitaskers, but glasses win on simplicity. Parents often choose based on how much time they realistically have for lens care.
- First-Time Patients: Glasses are typically the starting point. With a proper contact lens fitting, many first-time users feel comfortable switching to lenses. They just need to learn how to wear and care for them.
Factors in [location get='neighborhood'] That Impact Your Decision
In [location get='neighborhood'], daily life and the environment greatly affect whether patients prefer contact lenses or glasses. Here are a few local factors we often consider during your exam and consultation:
- Seasonal weather: Cold winters and dry indoor heat can make wearing contact lenses less comfortable for some patients.
- Screen time trends: [location get='neighborhood'] residents spend long hours on screens. This increases demand for glasses with blue light filters or moisture-retaining contact lenses.
- Population mix: With a blend of families, retirees, and working adults, we see a wide variety of needs.
- Lifestyle convenience: Busy schedules and limited time for self-care influence whether someone prefers low-maintenance glasses or the visual freedom of contacts.
No matter your age or vision needs, our eye care team at [location get='name'] will help you weigh these local considerations to make the most practical, personalized choice for your eye health.
Find the Right Fit for Your Lifestyle in [location get='neighborhood'], PA
At [location get='name'], we don’t just hand you a prescription. We walk you through your options, provide personalized contact lens exams, and help you find the right glasses prescription if lenses aren’t for you.
Whether you need contact lenses for astigmatism, multifocal lenses for aging eyes, or designer eyeglasses that match your style, book your comprehensive eye exam.
Contact Lenses vs Frames FAQs
Is it more expensive to wear contacts than glasses?
Often, yes. The cost of contacts and glasses depends on how often you replace your lenses. It also depends on whether you need special lenses. Glasses are usually a one-time purchase, while contacts require ongoing supplies and replacements.
Can I wear both glasses and contacts?
Absolutely. Many patients alternate between glasses and contact lenses depending on the situation. Some wear contacts daily and keep glasses for evenings or backup use.
Do I need a different exam for contact lenses?
Yes. A contact lens exam includes measurements and fittings not covered in a standard eye exam. This ensures your contacts are safe, comfortable, and provide proper vision correction.