Are hard contact lenses safe for children?

Yes, if they are gas permeable ones. The hard lenses are now obsolete since the introduction of rigid gas permeable contact lenses (RGP) in late 1970s. RGP contact lenses are not the same as the hard, commonly used in one of the myopia control treatments, Orthokeratology.

Unlike the modern RGP contact lenses, old-fashioned hard lenses were made of poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA), which did not allow oxygen to pass through. Contact wearers would feel discomfort and tended to feel the lenses in the daytime.

Learn more about RGP lenses before any myopia control option for your children:

1. RGP lenses are made of firm oxygen permeable polymer, fluorosilicone acrylate.

2. Oxygen allows to pass through easily due to the silicone material. The lens material allows the eyes of wearers to breathe even it is worn overnight for myopia control treatment.

3. RGP lens can reshape cornea for orthokeratology due to its rigidity. The lens material does not tear easily in the eye.

4. Since RGP lenses are firm and smaller than soft contact lenses, wearer will feel little awareness when lenses are worn. Lens will not get stuck in the eye as wearer will not forget to remove!

5. RGP lenses are less resistant to protein deposits that are produced by our tears. Wearer can use the lenses for longer period of time without compromising eye health.

6. RGP lenses are easily maintained as they are less frequent to be replaced.

7. Vision is crisp during the daytime if the lens is worn overnight for myopia control. The materials have superior optics that allow the eyes to focus well.

8. Besides myopia control, RGP lenses are fitted for cornea problems like keratoconus and post refractive surgery.

Author and photo source by SG optometrist, Chua Yee Leen.