If you wear contact lenses, you probably know that not all lenses are created equal. Whether you have dry eyes, keratoconus, or simply want to wake up with clear vision, specialty contact lenses can make all the difference. Our team at Blue Valley Vision of Overland Park helps patients find the right lens for their unique needs—because we know that comfort and clarity matter in your everyday life.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger than standard contacts and rest on the white part of your eye (the sclera), vaulting over the cornea to create a liquid reservoir underneath. This makes them ideal for people with:

• Severe dry eye syndrome – Scleral lenses keep your eyes hydrated throughout the day.

• Keratoconus – Their custom fit provides clear vision even for those with irregular corneas.

• Post-surgical eyes – If you've had LASIK or corneal transplants, scleral lenses can provide enhanced vision correction.
   

While they’re designed for all-day wear, some patients prefer to take them out midday for a quick cleaning and rehydration before reinserting. Proper lens care is essential to maintain comfort.
 

Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses are smaller than scleral lenses but still offer excellent vision correction, especially for patients with astigmatism or corneal irregularities. They allow more oxygen to reach the cornea than soft lenses and can last much longer if properly cared for. However, they do require an adaptation period—many patients take a few weeks to get used to the feel.
 

Unlike scleral lenses, RGP lenses don’t cover as much of the eye, which means they may not be as comfortable for people with severe dry eye. Most patients can wear them for 8–12 hours per day before needing a break.
 

Orthokeratology

Imagine waking up in the morning and not needing glasses or contacts at all. That’s the magic of orthokeratology (Ortho-K)—a specialty lens that gently reshapes your cornea while you sleep. In the morning, you remove the lenses and enjoy clear vision all day without any corrective eyewear.
 

Ortho-K is an excellent option for:

• Children and adults with myopia

• Patients looking for an alternative to LASIK

• Athletes or active individuals who don’t want to deal with contacts during the day
   

Since these lenses are only worn at night, there’s no daytime discomfort, and your eyes get a break from contact lenses during waking hours.
 

Hybrid Lenses

If you want the crisp vision of an RGP lens with the comfort of a soft lens, hybrid lenses might be for you. These lenses have a rigid gas-permeable center surrounded by a soft skirt, offering sharper vision without the initial discomfort of a fully rigid lens.
 

Hybrid lenses can be a great fit for people with mild corneal irregularities or those who struggle with RGP lenses but still want clearer vision than soft lenses can provide. Most patients can comfortably wear hybrid lenses for 10–14 hours per day.
 

Which Specialty Lens is Right for You?

Finding the right specialty contact lens isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. It depends on your eye health, vision needs, and lifestyle. We take the time to evaluate your eyes and recommend the best option for long-term comfort and clarity. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure you get a lens that fits your eyes—and your life—perfectly.
 

Schedule your specialty contact lens exam and fitting with Blue Valley Vision of Overland Park to see the difference custom-fit lenses can make! Contact our office at (913) 681-2624 to book an appointment today.