Are RGP Lenses Right for You?

If soft contact lenses haven’t given you the clear, comfortable vision you were hoping for, you may have more options than you realize. Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses offer precise vision correction and are often recommended for patients with specific eye conditions or visual demands.

What Are RGP Lenses?

Rigid gas permeable lenses are small, firm contact lenses made from durable plastic materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. Unlike older hard contact lenses, RGP lenses are designed for comfort and breathability while maintaining their shape on the eye. This stable structure is what allows them to deliver consistently sharp vision.

Benefits of RGP Lenses

RGP lenses aren’t for everyone, but they offer several advantages that make them an excellent option for certain patients. One of the biggest benefits is sharper, more precise vision. Because RGP lenses hold their shape on the eye, they can correct vision more accurately than soft lenses, especially for people with higher or more complex prescriptions.

These lenses are also well suited for individuals with irregular corneas. Conditions such as astigmatism or keratoconus often respond better to RGP lenses because their rigid structure helps create a smoother optical surface, leading to clearer and more stable vision.

Another important advantage of RGP lenses is improved oxygen flow to the eyes. Their gas-permeable material allows more oxygen to reach the cornea compared to some soft lenses, which can support long-term eye health and comfort.

Who Is a Good Candidate for RGP Lenses?

You may be a strong candidate for RGP lenses if you:

• Have moderate to high astigmatism

• Have keratoconus or other corneal irregularities

• Want the sharpest vision possible

• Are prone to dry eye symptoms with soft contact lenses

• Prefer a durable, long-term contact lens option

A comprehensive eye exam and contact lens fitting are essential to determine if RGP lenses are appropriate for your eyes and lifestyle.

Ready to Find the Right Fit for Your Vision?

Rigid gas permeable lenses aren’t the most common contact lens choice, but for many patients, they can be the best one. With sharper vision, improved oxygen flow, and long-term durability, RGP lenses are a powerful option - especially for those with specific vision challenges.

Schedule a contact lens exam at Mission Optometric Center to learn if RGP lenses are right for you. Visit our office in San Juan Capistrano, California, or call (949) 496-0552 to book an appointment today.