The Great Glasses Vs. Contacts Debate
The age-old debate of whether glasses or contact lenses are better has been around since contact lenses were first invented in either 1887 or 1888 (but that is another debate for another article). We have some real die-hard fans out there for each, but all I can tell you is that you have to go with what works for you. It’s really a personal preference.
The best way to know for sure is to try out both glasses and contacts for yourself. Look at all of the pros and cons before making the decision, but you definitely want to consider your personal budget, lifestyle, comfort and convenience requirements because there are some clear differences in all ways between glasses and contacts!
What Are the Pros & Cons of Contact Lenses?
Contact Lens Pros
-Peripheral Vision Unobstructed
-Participate in Sports & Exercise Without Worry of Breakage
-Can Be Used to Change Eye Color
-Conform to Eye Shape for More Comprehensive Vision Without Distortion
-No Risk of Detraction From Fashion
-No “Fog” in Cold Weather
-Can Be Used for Special Purposes (Costume Enhancement)
-Ability to Reshape Cornea (Ortho-K for Myopia)
Contact Lens Cons
-Can Be Difficult to Insert & Remove for Some (Training is Available)
-Daily Maintenance of Lenses and Case Required (Not Applicable to Daily Disposables)
-Can Cause Computer Vision Syndrome
-Limited Oxygen Exposure for the Eye
-Can Cause or Increase Severity of Dry Eye Syndrome
-Falling Asleep While Wearing Contacts Can Cause Redness, Irritation, and Dry, Gritty Eyes (Extended Wear Contacts Are Available)
What Are the Pros & Cons of Eyeglasses?
Eyeglass Pros
-Little Maintenance & Cleaning Required
-No Requirement to Touch the Eye (Minimal Eye Infection Risk)
-Cheaper
-Can Adjust Amount of Light Reaching Eye & Offer Full UV Protection (Photochromic Lenses)
-Fashionable Extension of Your Personality
-No Increased Risk of Making Dry or Sensitive Eye Conditions Worse
-Some Limited Protection From Flying Debris, Dust, Wind, etc.
Eyeglass Cons
-Distance From Cornea Surface Can Lead to Peripheral Vision Distortion
-Appearance of Eyeglasses Is Not Preferred By Some
-Frames May be Heavy, Uncomfortable, and Painful (Lightweight Frames Are Available)
-Some Prescriptions Can Make Eyes Appear Very Small or Large With Thick Lenses
-Rain, Snow, Fog, and Other Weather Factors Can Hinder Vision
Why Not Both? Can I Wear Glasses and Contacts?
For many, the choice between glasses and contacts isn’t cut-and-dry. These folks find that contacts are a great “special occasion” solution, while glasses are more of their everyday go-to choice. For others, contacts are more convenient for daily use, and glasses are just kept on hand for a backup in case of eye irritation, sickness, and other conditions when contact lens wear is impractical. No matter what you decide, you should always have at least one pair of eyeglasses with a current set of prescription lenses on hand at all times. Most people need or benefit from a regular break from the strain of wearing contact lenses, and if your eyes should become infected or irritated, your doctor will advise you to take a break from wearing contact lenses and instead wear your eyeglasses. Wise Eyes Optical can take care of all of your eyeglass and contact lens needs in one place – and the staff members are happy to help!
