Yes. Specialty contact lenses often feel different at first because they're designed differently than standard soft contact lenses. Most patients become more comfortable as they adjust to wearing them. Your eye doctor will explain what to expect and answer any questions during your fitting.
Contact Lenses That Work When Others Haven't
Frequently Asked Questions
Being unsuccessful with traditional contact lenses doesn't always mean contact lenses aren't an option. A specialty contact lens evaluation allows your eye doctor to determine whether a different lens design may provide a better fit or clearer vision for your eyes.
Possibly. Some specialty contact lenses require additional visits to evaluate the fit and make adjustments if needed. Your eye doctor will explain the fitting process and any recommended follow-up appointments during your evaluation.
Specialty contact lenses have their own cleaning and care instructions, but most patients quickly become comfortable with the routine. Before you leave the office, we'll show you how to care for your lenses and make sure you feel confident wearing them.
Specialty Contact Lens Care in Henrico Since 1985
If you've struggled with contact lens comfort or have been told you're difficult to fit, specialty contact lenses may be the answer. These lenses are built for eyes that don't respond well to standard soft lenses. For the right patient, they can deliver clearer, more comfortable vision than anything they've tried before.
At Dr. Clifford Roffis & Associates, every recommendation starts with a thorough evaluation of your eyes, so we're certain it's the right choice for you. We'll discuss your vision needs, examine how your eyes function, and determine whether a specialty lens is the right fit.
What They Are
Scleral lenses are larger than traditional contact lenses. Instead of resting on the cornea, they rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera.
How They Work
Because scleral lenses vault over the cornea, they create a smooth optical surface while maintaining a layer of tears between the lens and the eye. This design can improve comfort for some patients while providing stable, clear vision throughout the day.
Who May Benefit
Scleral lenses may be recommended for patients whose eyes cannot be comfortably fitted with traditional contact lenses. They are also one of the specialty lens options your eye doctor may consider when evaluating patients with keratoconus.
What They Are
Rose K lenses are a specialty rigid contact lens designed with a unique shape for eyes that require a more customized fit.
How They Work
The design of a Rose K lens allows it to fit eyes differently than a standard contact lens. This customized fit can improve how the lens sits on the eye and provide clearer vision for appropriate candidates.
Who May Benefit
Rose K lenses may be considered for patients with keratoconus or for those whose eyes require a specialty lens design after a comprehensive contact lens evaluation.
What They Are
Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses are firm contact lenses that maintain their shape while allowing oxygen to reach the surface of the eye.
How They Work
Unlike soft contact lenses, RGP lenses keep their shape as you blink. For some patients, this can provide crisp, consistent vision and a stable lens fit.
Who May Benefit
RGP lenses may be recommended when a traditional soft contact lens doesn't provide the vision or fit you're looking for. We'll tell you honestly whether they're a good fit for your eyes, and explain why.
Specialty Contact Lens Care You Can Trust
Every eye is different, which is why specialty contact lenses are never chosen from a standard list. Your evaluation helps us understand the shape of your eyes, your prescription, and any factors that may affect how a lens fits or performs.
We'll explain your options, answer your questions, and recommend a specialty lens only if it's the right choice for your eyes.
Specialty contact lenses have been an important part of our practice for many years. Dr. Clifford A. Roffis, O.D., conducted contact lens clinical investigations for Bausch & Lomb, served on an advisory board for the company, and co-chaired the Virginia Optometric Association Contact Lens and Anterior Segment Symposium. Dr. Kenneth B. Gordon, O.D., has a clinical interest in contact lenses, and Dr. Anna E. Eby, O.D., has a special interest in fitting specialty contact lenses. Together, our team helps patients throughout Henrico find solutions when traditional contact lenses aren't working.
Schedule a Specialty Contact Lens Evaluation
If you've been told you're difficult to fit, have keratoconus, or haven't been successful with traditional contact lenses, we're here to help. Call Dr. Clifford Roffis & Associates at (804) 226-1144 to schedule your evaluation. We're open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
