What Are Specialty Contacts and Who Should Use Them?

April 30, 2025

Contact lenses have come a long way since their invention, providing clear vision and convenience for millions of people. However, not all eyes are suited for standard contact lenses. That’s where specialty contact lenses come into play. These advanced lenses cater to unique eye conditions and specific visual needs, offering solutions for patients who might otherwise struggle with traditional contacts or glasses. Let’s dive into what specialty contacts are, the types available, and who might benefit from them.

What Are Specialty Contact Lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are custom-designed lenses tailored to address specific eye conditions, irregular corneal shapes, or specialized vision requirements. Unlike standard lenses, which come in predetermined shapes and sizes, specialty lenses are often made-to-order based on detailed measurements of your eyes.


These lenses use advanced materials and designs to provide superior comfort, vision correction, and sometimes therapeutic benefits. They’re often recommended for individuals with conditions that make traditional contact lenses uncomfortable or ineffective.

Types of Specialty Contact Lenses

1. Scleral Lenses

What They Are: Larger than standard lenses, scleral lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye).

Who They’re For: Ideal for individuals with irregular corneas, keratoconus, or severe dry eye syndrome. Scleral lenses provide exceptional comfort by creating a fluid reservoir between the lens and cornea, which helps maintain moisture.

2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

What They Are: Small, durable lenses made from rigid materials that allow oxygen to pass through.

Who They’re For: Suitable for patients needing precise vision correction, particularly those with astigmatism or irregular corneas. RGP lenses offer sharper vision compared to soft lenses but may require an adjustment period for comfort.

3. Hybrid Lenses

What They Are: Combine the best of both worlds—an RGP lens center for sharp vision and a soft lens skirt for comfort.

Who They’re For: Great for individuals who need the clarity of an RGP lens but find them uncomfortable for long-term wear. Commonly used for keratoconus and other corneal irregularities.

4. Toric Lenses

What They Are: Designed specifically to correct astigmatism, these lenses have a unique shape that stays stable on the eye.

Who They’re For: Perfect for patients with astigmatism who need a stable and effective contact lens option.

5. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses

What They Are: Worn overnight, these lenses gently reshape the cornea to correct vision temporarily.

Who They’re For: A great option for patients with low to moderate myopia (nearsightedness) who prefer not to wear glasses or contacts during the day. Ortho-K is also effective for slowing the progression of myopia in children.

6. Soft Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes

What They Are: Specialized soft lenses made from materials that retain moisture and reduce irritation.

Who They’re For: Ideal for individuals with mild to moderate dry eye syndrome who struggle with traditional lenses.

7. Custom-Tinted Lenses

What They Are: Custom-colored lenses designed for cosmetic or medical purposes, such as masking corneal scars or improving contrast sensitivity.

Who They’re For: Beneficial for patients with light sensitivity, eye injuries, or specific vision conditions.

Who Should Use Specialty Contacts?

Specialty contact lenses are often recommended for individuals with specific eye conditions or needs, including:

Keratoconus: A condition where the cornea becomes thin and irregularly shaped, making vision correction with glasses or standard lenses difficult.

Severe Dry Eye: Patients with chronic dry eye syndrome may find traditional lenses uncomfortable, whereas specialty lenses like scleral lenses can provide relief.

Corneal Scarring or Irregularities: Trauma, surgery, or conditions like pellucid marginal degeneration can lead to corneal irregularities that require custom lenses.

Astigmatism: Toric or hybrid lenses are often the best solution for patients with significant astigmatism.

Myopia Management: Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses are an excellent option for slowing myopia progression in children and teens.

Post-Surgical Vision: After procedures like corneal transplants or LASIK, some patients benefit from custom lenses for optimal vision.

High Prescriptions: Patients with very high levels of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or presbyopia can achieve better results with custom-designed lenses.

Benefits of Specialty Contact Lenses

Custom Fit: Tailored to your unique eye shape for improved comfort and stability.

Enhanced Vision: Superior correction for complex prescriptions or irregularities.

Therapeutic Relief: Can manage or alleviate symptoms of chronic eye conditions.

Greater Versatility: Options for sports, daily wear, or even overnight reshaping of vision.

Why Choose Harvey & Lewis Opticians for Specialty Contacts?

At Harvey & Lewis Opticians, our experienced eye care professionals specialize in fitting specialty contact lenses. We use advanced diagnostic tools, such as OCT and corneal topography, to ensure your lenses are perfectly designed for your needs. With locations across Connecticut, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal comfort and vision.

Take the First Step Toward Better Vision

If you’ve struggled with traditional contact lenses or have a condition that requires specialized care, specialty contacts might be the solution you’ve been searching for. Schedule an eye exam at one of our convenient locations to explore your options and find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Your vision deserves nothing less than the best—book your appointment today!