Are Specialty Contact Lenses Suitable for All Ages?

When most people think about contact lenses, they imagine soft, disposable lenses used for daily vision correction. But for patients with unique visual needs, specialty contact lenses offer advanced solutions that go beyond traditional lenses. From children with progressive myopia to adults with corneal irregularities, these custom lenses can improve both vision and quality of life. But are specialty contact lenses suitable for all ages?
 

What Are Specialty Contact Lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are custom-designed lenses tailored for patients with conditions that standard lenses can’t correct. These may include:
 

• Scleral lenses: Designed for people with keratoconus, dry eyes, or post-surgical corneas
• Hybrid lenses: Combining the clarity of rigid gas permeable lenses with the comfort of soft lenses
• Ortho-K lenses: Worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea and correct vision temporarily
• Multifocal and toric lenses: For presbyopia or astigmatism

Because these lenses are made to address specific vision challenges, they can be prescribed to individuals at almost any age.
 

Are Specialty Contact Lenses Suitable for Children?

Specialty contact lenses can be suitable for patients of all ages, from children to older adults, depending on their individual eye health needs and lifestyle. These lenses are designed to address specific conditions such as keratoconus, severe dry eye, high astigmatism, and irregular corneas - issues that can affect people at any stage of life.
 

Pediatric patients, for example, may benefit from myopia control lenses, while older adults might need scleral lenses for advanced corneal conditions. However, proper lens care, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow wearing schedules are important considerations when determining candidacy, especially for young children or elderly individuals. A comprehensive eye exam and consultation with our optometrist are essential to assess whether specialty lenses are the right fit for a patient’s age, condition, and lifestyle.
 

The Benefits of Ortho-K for All Ages

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) plays a unique role in specialty eye care. These gas-permeable lenses are worn only at night and temporarily reshape the cornea during sleep. In the morning, the user removes the lenses and enjoys clear vision throughout the day - without glasses or daytime contacts.
 

Ortho-K is especially valuable for:
 

• Children with myopia - Slowing progression during critical developmental years
• Athletes - Who want clear vision without the hassle of daytime lenses or frames
• Adults - Seeking a non-surgical alternative to LASIK

Because the effects are reversible, Ortho-K offers a safe and flexible option for many age groups.
 

Get Started at TMS Eyecare

Specialty contact lenses, including Ortho-K, are suitable for a wide range of age groups, from children needing myopia control to seniors seeking sharper vision and greater comfort. Our experienced optometrists take the time to evaluate each patient’s needs and fit them with the right lens solution for their lifestyle and eye health.
 

Ready to explore specialty contact lenses for yourself or your child? Schedule a contact lens exam and fitting with TMS Eyecare and discover the comfort and clarity of customized vision care. Visit any of our offices in Wichita or Arkansas City, Kansas. Call (316) 669-4760, (316) 686-7212, or (620) 442-2577 to book an appointment today.