Vision Solutions: Eyeglasses vs Contact Lenses which Suits you Better?
Vision Solutions: Eyeglasses vs Contact Lenses which Suits you Better?
21 November 2023

Distinct types of vision solutions are available on the market, depending on your requirements and choices. This includes eyeglasses, contact lenses, orthokeratology, LASIK, and implantable lenses. Among these, the most widely used solutions are eyeglasses and contact lenses. What is perfect for you—eyeglasses vs. contact lenses? It can be difficult for you to determine which option is best for you. Well, everything has its edges and drawbacks. However, you can discover which one suits you perfectly and choose how to know about the differences between eye lenses and contact lenses. Here is a comparison of eyeglasses vs contact lenses:

What are the power glasses for the eyes?

Power glasses for the eyes are prescription glasses. One can customize their vision prescription with different spectacles, shapes, sizes, and colors of their choice to feel beautiful when aiding their daily vision. Eyeglasses, also known as spectacles, are correctional lenses that are used to fix vision issues such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Eyeglasses are made of four different types of plastic lenses: Polyethylene, Trivex, Polycarbonate, High-index Polymers, and Glass. In addition, power glasses for the eyes work by bending the light rays that enter the eye, which helps to focus the image on the retina. This makes the brain interpret them. Eyeglasses are prescribed by the doctor, generally the ophthalmologist or optometrist. Eyeglasses appeal to the audience and are also a tool for both fashion-conscious people and people who need eyeglasses and want to correct their vision. This is a fashion accessory that is used to express one’s style.

Contact lenses price in Nepal: Alternatives for eyeglasses

In the argument about eyeglasses vs contact lenses, contact lenses are also one of the popular alternatives to eyeglasses, which offer several advantages. Contact lenses are thin, plastic lenses that are directly worn inside the eye for vision correction. Contact lenses are effective in the sense that they offer a more natural appearance. Besides, contact lenses are expected to be cleaned and disinfected daily. Also, as per the guidance and prescription of the doctor, contact lenses are to be substituted regularly. The doctor shall also prescribe the lens material and power that are appropriate as per the needs. Contact lenses are available in a wide range and many types, and their price options may vary based on the validity period of the lenses, the solution, and disposable options. Ideally, one can get colorful contact lenses for Rs 2000 to Rs 5000 in Nepal. Again, the context lens price in Nepal can get to premium, depending on terms of use, brand, and other eye care features. Let's know what types of contact lenses are available in Nepal.

  1. Soft contact lenses
  2. Rigid gas permeable (RGP)
  3. Toric contact lenses
  4. Multifocal contact lenses

Why wear contact lenses?

Contact lenses are indeed of huge function and comfort if worn properly. As you wear the contact lenses with the proper prescription of the ophthalmologist, you will be assisted with a wide range of benefits.

Features Contact Lenses  Eyeglasses 
Vision: Peripheral and Natural moves with your eyes and thus provides a wider field of view, eliminating blind spots. Frames can obstruct vision, restrict peripheral vision, and cause blind spots
Convenience and conducive Hand free Requires constant adjustment
Appearance Enhance natural look Alter facial appearance
UV protection Offers sun protection with built-in features. Provide some UV protection
Medical applications Treat corneal issues and deliver medications Very limited applications
Comfort Hand-free and comfortable Slip and fall
Cost Maintenance can be high Replacements are expensive, but maintenance is cost-effective.
Options There is a wide range of options, from daily wear to disposable, colored, etc. Limited frame and bulky lenses
Wear time Limited wear time Not a limited time

Pros of Eyeglasses

Eyeglasses hold numerous advantages other than vision correction. They are effective, convenient, cost-effective, and available in a variety of styles. Some of the major benefits of eyeglasses are mentioned below:

1. Convenience and low maintenance

Eyeglasses are easy to put on and take off, and unlike contact lenses, they don’t need to be cleaned every time. Glasses are used as a fuss-free alternative and can be worn for a prolonged period. Therefore, eyeglasses are very timely and have low supervision.

2. Acts as a barrier to external

The specks of dirt, clouds of dust, and other irritations can pose a risk of eye infection. Thus, eyeglasses can be a defense tool for the eyes and help with cataracts and macular deterioration.

3. Customization options for styles

You can choose a pair of eyeglasses that match your individual preferences and fashion sanity. You will have a wide range of options for your lifestyle and demands that will fit you. Moreover, you can have single-vision lenses, bifocal lenses, and varifocals.

4. Shield from UV rays and diminish eye strain

Eyeglasses are accessories that can aid you in removing eye pressure.  Eye strain is caused by the protracted use of gadgets, reading, and activities with close focus. This will lead to reduced fatigue. Moreover, eyeglasses will help you protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun and ultraviolet rays. Spending more time outdoors and using digital devices can be overwhelming for the eyes. Therefore, eyeglasses can be very worthwhile.

Cons of power glasses for eyes

Despite the edges of eyeglasses, you might wonder about the potential cons of eyeglasses. Here are some of the issues that might arise due to eyeglasses:

1. Deterrent of peripheral vision

The curved lenses of the eyeglasses can refract light, which can distort peripheral vision. Also, glasses block light that enters the eyes, due to which blind spots can be caused.

2. Fog up of eyeglasses

Going for a run or exercise can be tough on your eyes. These power glasses for eyes are not that suitable in cold weather and humidity, as these glasses can get fogged. This eventually obstructs your vision. So, contact lenses have been the preferred choice for sportspeople.

3. Cost

Eyeglasses can be expensive, especially when you are prescribed thick lenses and other special features such as blue-cut lenses. Also, if your lens power keeps altering, it is very difficult to replace it shortly.

4. Appearance and discomfort

Some people are not satisfied with the way they look in eyeglasses. Some of them feel that they are less appealing. Also, ill-fitting glasses can be uncomfortable to wear. If not well-adjusted, glasses can induce headaches and other concerns.

Advantages of wearing contact lenses

Some of the major advantages of contact lenses are mentioned below:

1. Improved and focused vision

Unlike eyeglasses, contact lenses provide a clear view in all directions and, most importantly, do not obstruct peripheral vision. You will have a precise sight as the contact lenses do not reflect any light. Contact lenses eliminate blind spots and distortion in the eyes. Also, it enhances peripheral vision as the lens moves along with your eye.

2. Vision issues correction

Contact lenses further help to improve vision issues such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. These lenses are also effective as they can be customized to fit individual needs and preferences. Certain eye problems, such as corneal ulcers and keratitis, can be treated through this, as it provides medication directly to the eye for targeted treatment.

3.  Reducing fog

Contact lenses are preferred over eyeglasses because they offer a convenient way of seeing without creating fog. This makes it perfect for sports and exercise. Also, contact lenses are efficient for chill weather with foggy days.

4. More natural appearance

Many individuals do not prefer wearing glasses, as this diminishes their physical looks. Thus, contact lenses enhance the appearance by eliminating the need for glasses. Also, contact lenses provide a much more natural and subtle way to improve their vision issues without altering their facial features.

5. 360 UV protection

Contact lenses offer a wide range of advantages, including protection from UV rays. Some contact lenses provide built-in UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays which reduces the risk of eye damage and long-term vision issues.

6. Light to wear and a wide range of options

Contact lenses are comfortable and user-friendly, and thus, the craze for contact lenses has been increasing widely. With technological advancement, numerous new materials have been introduced, which is why contact lenses provide a better and more comfortable wearing experience.

Concerns when wearing contact lenses

Although contact lenses offer a wide range of benefits, they can also come with some potential drawbacks that you should consider before making a purchase and a decision about vision correction. Here, we present you with some of the key disadvantages of contact lenses:

1. Cost

Contact lenses can be way more costly than eyeglasses. When you are deciding to purchase daily disposable contacts or something that requires a specific type of lenses like for astigmatism, the cost of such contact lenses can be very high. Moreover, the cost of the solutions, the lens’s case, and replacement over time can turn out to be exorbitant.

2. Care and maintenance

Contact lenses are complicated in the sense that they are difficult to clean, disinfect, and store. Contact lenses require proper maintenance and care to prevent eye infections, which can arise due to the germs in the lenses. Such care demands a lot of patience. Improper care can increase the risk of eye irritation, infection, and corneal damage.

3. Infection and dryness

Contact lenses, if not well maintained, can cause eye infections. Contact lenses have a limited wear time. Therefore, wearing it for more than the allocated time can cause dryness. Also, contact lenses can trap dust, debris, and allergens, which can cause irritation and discomfort.

4. Cornea vascularization and conjunctivitis

Contact lenses can be the cause of redness, pain, swelling, and discharge, which can further lead to corneal damage. Minor scratches and tears can cause vision discomfort and conjunctivitis.

Conclusion

The comparison between eyeglasses and contact lenses is more of a personal one that relies on individual needs, preferences, and lifestyles. Thus, the best choice for you will depend on your specific circumstances. The aforementioned comparison will indeed assist you in deciding and choosing the best. Ultimately, the best way to decide the option for your vision correction is through a consultation with your ophthalmologist or eye doctor, who can recommend the best for you.

Yes, we provide emergency eye care for conditions like eye injuries, sudden vision loss, and infections. If you experience any urgent eye problems, please contact us immediately, and our team will assist you in getting the care you need.

Signs to watch for include blurry vision, floaters, sudden loss of vision, eye pain, redness, or sensitivity to light. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an eye exam at Vision Concern Eye Clinic as soon as possible for early diagnosis and treatment.

If you’re experiencing blurred vision, headaches, or eye strain, it may be a sign that you need glasses or contact lenses. Our eye exams will help determine whether you need corrective lenses. We’ll also discuss your options based on your lifestyle and preferences, including glasses, contacts, or even refractive surgery like LASIK.