Some people love the way they look in eyeglasses. Others can’t stand the idea of anything on their face. And many Alberta patients end up using both. At Village Eye Centre, we help patients in North Edmonton and Sherwood Park find the right vision correction for their daily lives. This includes choosing designer frames or getting fitted for the perfect contact lenses.
What’s the Real Difference Between Glasses & Contact Lenses?
For patients throughout North Edmonton and Sherwood Park, deciding between glasses and contact lenses often boils down to more than just personal preference. Your vision needs depend on several factors. These include how active you are, your lifestyle, and the dry winters in Alberta.
- Wearing glasses involves placing corrective lenses in front of your eyes. Our eye doctors base glasses prescriptions on how light bends as it enters your retina at a fixed distance from your eyes.
- Wearing contact lenses, on the other hand, requires placing the lens directly on the surface of the eye. Your contact lens prescription is different from your glasses prescription. This is because it considers where the lens sits.
It may seem like a slight difference, but these details are crucial for both comfort and performance. A proper contact lens fitting ensures your lenses align with your eyes’ unique shape and oxygen needs. This step should never be skipped or guessed.
Pros & Cons: Glasses vs. Contact Lenses
Here’s a quick look at the main differences between glasses and contact lenses to help guide your decision:
Comfort
- Glasses don’t touch your eyes, so there’s no risk of dryness or irritation. That’s a plus during dry, windy Alberta winters.
- Contacts may feel more natural during physical activity and offer better peripheral vision, but dry eyes or poor fit can cause discomfort.
Appearance
- Glasses are a visible part of your appearance. Many patients embrace this and enjoy choosing stylish frames that reflect their personality.
- Contact lenses are virtually invisible and may appeal to those who want a glasses-free look or who regularly wear sunglasses.
Maintenance
- Glasses are simple to clean, don’t require solution, and are less prone to infection-related complications.
- Contact lenses require a contact lens exam, routine cleaning, and careful hygiene to avoid eye infection. Depending on the type, they need to be replaced daily, biweekly, or monthly.
Cost
- Contact lenses may seem cheaper month-to-month, but their long-term costs (solution, frequent replacement) often exceed a pair of quality eyeglasses.
- Glasses usually have a higher upfront cost, but they typically last longer and don’t require recurring purchases.
Vision Needs
- Multifocal lenses are available for both contacts and glasses. Some patients find multifocal contacts tricky to adapt to, while others prefer the natural feel once they adjust.
- Certain conditions, such as keratoconus, high astigmatism, or post-surgery recovery, may make contacts a better choice. Scleral lenses are often a good choice, and we regularly fit them at Village Eye Centre.
Contacts or Glasses for Your Lifestyle, Age, & Alberta's Climate
Let’s take a closer look at how real life in North Edmonton and Sherwood Park plays into your choice:
- Working Professionals: Office workers often spend hours in front of screens, which can lead to digital eye strain. Wearing glasses with blue light filters helps reduce eye fatigue. Contacts can worsen dryness from reduced blinking.
- Parents and Busy Families: Glasses tend to be easier to fit into busy schedules. Just pop them on and go. For parents who chase toddlers or play weekend sports, contacts provide freedom from slipping frames and foggy lenses.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Whether you're hiking or navigating winter snow glare, contacts provide a better field of view and don’t fog up when switching temperatures. However, dry, cold wind can dry out lenses.
- Seniors and Eye Health: As we age, the risk of developing conditions like presbyopia, cataracts, and dry eye increases. For many older patients, glasses provide comfort, clarity, and ease of use, especially when dexterity becomes an issue.
- Teens and First-Time Wearers: Young patients often want contacts for sports and appearance, but parents should ensure their child can manage proper hygiene. Our eye care team helps families navigate this decision with a clear plan and plenty of guidance.
Get Clear Vision that Fits Your Life in Alberta
No matter where you live or travel from, you deserve good eye care that meets your daily needs. Our team takes pride in helping patients find vision solutions that feel right and fit right.
From clear prescriptions to perfectly adjusted frames and lenses, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Book your comprehensive eye exam with our eye doctors. They will help you find the best option for your needs.
Glasses vs. Contacts FAQs
Is a glasses prescription the same as a contact lens prescription?
No, they differ. Contact lens prescriptions include additional measurements, such as base curve (BC) and diameter (DIA). This is important because the lens sits right on your eye. A proper fitting ensures both comfort and safety.
Can I wear both glasses and contacts?
Absolutely. Many people switch between eyeglasses and contact lenses depending on the day. You might prefer glasses for work and contacts for sports or special occasions.
Are contact lenses safe for teenagers?
Yes, if they’re responsible with hygiene and follow instructions. We help families determine when teens are ready and provide training on how to wear and care for lenses safely.