There is a misconception that if you have astigmatism you cannot wear colored contact lenses. This is incorrect with the use of toric astigmatism colored contacts. Astigmatism is an error in the cornea shape which is a common vision problem. It can result in fuzzy, blurry, or somewhat distorted vision. Standard lenses are shaped spherically as if you would divide a beach ball in two. Contrarily, a toric lens would look like a donut that has been cut down the middle. The toric lens accounts for the irregular shape of the cornea by refracting the light differently into the eye which in turn corrects the vision.
Toric are specialized for those who want to either enhance their natural eye color or change it completely. There are a small number of brands in the online market offering products that serve a cosmetic purpose in addition to being vision-correcting. The market is evolving and expanding to include more options each day.
Obtaining Astigmatism Colored Contacts
Before obtaining one of the different varieties of astigmatism colored contacts or any type of lens for that matter, you would need to see an eye doctor for a prescription. An optometrist is responsible for eye measurement and contact fitting.
The measurements taken for those with astigmatism contacts require great detail and may need to be customized based on the amount of irregularity that you may have. These are often customized meaning that they will be custom tinted allowing for a vast choice of tints.
Typically, you will find either enhancement or opaque tint as your option. Lighter eyes benefit from the enhancement tint which brings out the natural color of your eyes making them seem much more vibrant. The lens itself appears to be mostly transparent.
The iris looks to be altered with the opaque tint which seems to change the natural color. Darker eyes will need this tint to see any kind of difference in the eyes shade. Read more here https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/contact-lenses-colored-soft-hard-toric-bifocal.
Getting an Accurate Fit
It is critical when ordering online to schedule an appointment with your optometrist to be examined for the proper fit in your eyes after receipt of the contacts. This evaluation needs to take place before regular everyday use.
If your doctor advises you that these lenses may be dangerously tight, possibly too loose, or way off-axis, you will likely not be able to wear them at all. That would be unfortunate, but it’s much better to find out before causing damage to your eyes by using something that is an inappropriate size.
If the prescription has been followed accurately and the size is perfect, you can wear them in a healthy, happy way with no worry of any type of misfortune befalling your eyes.
Colored Contacts for Astigmatism Considerations
Colored contacts can potentially move around making it noticeable that the shade is artificial. The opaque tint offers a clear center often not large enough when the pupil expands in varying degrees of lighting which impacts the vision. When you obtain contact lenses for reasons of astigmatism but also with a cosmetic intent, there are potential risks:
- Infection of the cornea.
- Pink eye or conjunctivitis.
- Corneal scratches or ulcerations.
- Impairment to your vision.
- Possible blindness.
A Toric lens will carry the same types of risks as the traditional lens. These can be minimized by following the eye doctor’s instructions and the manufacturer’s written directions. You should wear the contact lenses precisely as you have been advised, and have them replaced following the schedule given to you.
It’s essential to always use proper hygiene when handling the contacts, keep them clean and stored as you have been advised.
Your optometrist can measure/fit you and write you the required prescription. It’s up to you, however, to use an FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved retailer to be sure you are receiving a reputable product. Colored contacts for astigmatism are extremely specialized meaning a reliable source is warranted. The current online market is small but evolving and growing rapidly.
Colored contacts are a unique way to change your appearance. With toric products, wearers with astigmatism can join in the fun. The misconception that you can’t wear these products when you have astigmatism is being debunked.
Talk with your optometrist if you’re interested in a cosmetic change along with your vision correction. The doctor will be able to do the necessary work-up and could potentially help you to research a reliable retailer for a trusted purchase. Your product must be FDA-approved, come from a reputable market, and fit properly. Your doctor will be a critical aid throughout this process.
After you have fulfilled all of the crucial requirements, make sure you’re having a good time in picking out the color you want to help you achieve your new look.
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