Hard-to-Fit Eyes: Why Specialty Contact Lenses Make All the Difference

For many people, contact lenses provide a simple and comfortable alternative to glasses. But not every eye is suited for standard soft lenses. Certain conditions make some eyes more challenging to fit, often leading to discomfort or unclear vision with traditional options. At Chelsea Vision Associates, we specialize in fitting specialty contact lenses, custom-made solutions that provide clear sight and lasting comfort for patients with unique vision needs.
 

What Makes Eyes “Hard-to-Fit”?

Several eye conditions and anatomical differences can make standard contact lenses uncomfortable or ineffective. These include:
 

•          Astigmatism: When the cornea has an irregular shape, traditional lenses may not sit properly and can cause blurred or fluctuating vision.

•          Keratoconus: A progressive condition where the cornea thins and bulges outward into a cone-like shape, requiring custom lens designs.

•          Post-Surgical Eyes: Patients who have undergone LASIK, corneal transplants, or other eye surgeries may need specially tailored lenses.

•          Presbyopia: Age-related difficulty focusing on near objects often benefits from multifocal or custom lens designs.

•          Dry Eye Syndrome: Standard lenses may worsen dryness, while certain specialty lenses can actually help protect and hydrate the eyes.
 

What Are Specialty Contact Lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are custom-designed lenses made for people whose eyes don’t fit the “one-size-fits-all” approach of standard soft contacts. Unlike regular lenses, which are mass-produced in limited shapes and sizes, specialty contacts are tailored to address unique vision needs and eye conditions. They come in a variety of advanced designs to provide sharper vision, greater comfort, and improved eye health. These lenses are carefully fitted using detailed measurements and imaging, ensuring that each pair is as unique as the eyes they serve.
 

Types of Specialty Contact Lenses

Fortunately, advancements in contact lens technology have expanded options for patients with unique vision needs:
 

•          Scleral Lenses: Larger lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). They provide exceptional comfort, clarity, and moisture retention—especially helpful for keratoconus and severe dry eye.

•          Gas Permeable (GP) Lenses: Small, rigid lenses that provide sharper vision for irregular corneas or high astigmatism.

•          Hybrid Lenses: These lenses combine a rigid center for clear vision with a soft lens skirt for comfort.

•          Custom Soft Lenses: Designed specifically for unique prescriptions, high astigmatism, or unusual eye shapes.

•          Multifocal Lenses: Tailored to address presbyopia, allowing patients to see clearly at multiple distances.
 

What to Expect During the Fitting Process Matters

Fitting specialty lenses requires precision, advanced imaging, and an in-depth understanding of the patient’s eye health. We use detailed corneal mapping and diagnostic fittings to ensure your lenses are tailored to your exact needs. This customized process helps maximize both comfort and vision clarity, making specialty lenses a life-changing option for those who thought contacts weren’t possible.
 

See the Difference with Custom Contact Lenses

If you have been told you are not a good candidate for contact lenses, or if you have struggled with discomfort and poor vision in the past, specialty contact lenses could be the solution. We specialize in helping patients with hard-to-fit eyes find the right contact lens solution.
 

Schedule a contact lens exam at Chelsea Vision Associates to learn how specialty contact lenses can transform your vision and comfort. Visit our office in New York, NY, or call (212) 243-5898 to book an appointment today.