Contact lenses service

Types of contact lenses we offer

1.Soft contact lenses: Soft lenses are made from breathable materials such as hydrogel or silicone hydrogel, offering comfort and flexibility. They are ideal for:

• Individuals with common refractive errors such as short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hypermetropia), or mild astigmatism
• Those seeking comfortable lenses for daily or occasional wea
• Individuals with active lifestyles
• Specialist multifocal soft lenses can also now be used to correct presbyopia (the age-related loss of the eye’s ability to focus on near objects)

Types of soft lenses include:

• Daily disposable lenses: Convenient for one-time use with no cleaning required
• Bi-weekly or monthly lenses: Reusable lenses for regular wearers who follow a cleaning routine
• Toric lenses: Designed to correct astigmatism by stabilising lens position
• Multifocal lenses: Suitable for those with presbyopia (age-related near vision difficulties), providing both near and distance correction
• Coloured (cosmetic) lenses:  Professionally fitted lenses that enhance or change eye colour, available with or without prescription.

2.Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses: RGP lenses are firmer than soft lenses and typically smaller in size. They can provide sharper vision in certain cases and are often longer lasting. They are recommended for:

• Patients with moderate to high astigmatism
• Individuals with corneal irregularities or keratoconus
• Those seeking a durable, long-term vision correction option with lower risk of infection

3.Scleral lenses: Scleral lenses are large-diameter RGP lenses that rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) and create a fluid-filled space over the cornea. They are particularly effective for:

• Individuals with advanced keratoconus or other corneal diseases
• Individuals recovering from corneal surgery or injury
• People suffering from chronic dry eye or ocular surface disease

4.Hybrid contact lenses: Hybrid lenses combine a rigid gas permeable centre for sharp vision with a soft outer ring for enhanced comfort. These lenses are suitable for:

• Patients with mild to moderate keratoconus
• Individuals with high sensitivity to RGP lenses
• Wearers looking for a balance between comfort and clarity

5.Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses: Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed rigid lenses overnight to gently reshape the cornea, allowing clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or lenses. They are often recommended for:

• Children and teenagers with progressive short-sightedness (myopia)
• Adults looking for a non-surgical alternative to laser vision correction
• Athletes or individuals with active jobs who prefer not to wear lenses during the day

6.Therapeutic Contact Lenses: In addition to vision correction, specialised lenses are prescribed for therapeutic purposes by our ophthalmologists at Moorfields UAE: They can help with:

• Healing corneal abrasions or injuries
• Reducing light sensitivity with tinted or prosthetic lenses
• Managing ocular surface conditions such as severe dry eye
• Protecting the eye following surgery or trauma

What are the advantages and disadvantages of contact lenses?

Advantages

• Improve vision for individuals with refractive errors such as near-sightedness (Myopia), farsightedness (Hypermetropia), Astigmatism and Presbyopia
• Provide a wide, natural field of vision without frames
• Do not fog up or get splashed during activities or weather changes
• Offer freedom for sports, exercise, and daily movement
• Lenses such as Ortho-K, can correct vision temporarily without daytime wear
• Therapeutic lenses can aid in healing or protecting the eye surface
• Can offer clearer or more customised vision than spectacles in specific cases (e.g., keratoconus

Disadvantages

• Require daily care, cleaning, and correct storage (except daily disposables)
• May cause mild discomfort or dryness
• Risk of complications if used incorrectly, including:
  • Eye infections, irritation, and redness
  • Corneal abrasion (scratch on the eye’s surface)
• Some types have an adaptation period before becoming fully comfortable
• Not suitable for everyone, depending on lifestyle, health conditions, or eye surface issues
• Can be more expensive over time compared to Laser vision correction surgery, especially with frequent replacement

Eligibility Criteria

Most individuals can wear contact lenses safely; however, lenses may be unsuitable or only suitable with caution for those who:

• Have severe or uncontrolled dry eye disease
• Experience chronic eye allergies or frequent eye infections
• Are exposed to dusty or chemically-irritating environments without protective eyewear
• Have certain systemic conditions (e.g., poorly controlled diabetes or autoimmune disease) that affect healing

A detailed assessment by a specialist will determine suitability and recommend the safest vision-correction option for everyone.

Cost, insurance, and privilege programmes

Contact lens consultations and fittings may be covered under certain medical insurance or vision-care plans. We extend preferred rates to holders of Esaad, Fazaa, Saada, Sanad, and Humat Al Watan privilege cards.

Regular replacement lenses can be reordered directly through the hospital, ensuring authenticity, correct prescription, and continuity of after-care.

Importance of specialised assessment

Choosing the correct contact lens is not simply a matter of preference, it is a clinical decision based on eye health, lifestyle, and comfort. Ill-fitting or inappropriate lenses can cause discomfort, increase infection risk, and lead to long-term complications.

At Moorfields Eye Hospitals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, our Ophthalmologists and Optometrists provides tailored assessments and ongoing support to ensure safe, effective outcomes. Whether you are exploring contact lenses for convenience, sports, or treatment of a complex eye condition, our specialists are here to guide you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Contact Lenses

1.How young can a child begin wearing contact lenses?

Children as young as eight years old can begin wearing contact lenses, provided they demonstrate the maturity to manage them responsibly. The suitability of contact lenses for a child depends not on age alone, but on their ability to follow hygiene instructions, maintain lens care routines, and communicate any discomfort they experience. In the UAE, contact lenses are increasingly being prescribed as part of myopia control strategies, particularly Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses worn overnight to slow the progression of short-sightedness. For active children involved in sports or those who find spectacles limiting, contact lenses may also provide greater freedom and comfort. A comprehensive eye examination and consultation with a specialist at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai or Abu Dhabi will help determine if contact lenses are the right option for your child.

2.Can I wear contact lenses in the UAE’s hot and dry climate?

Yes, it is entirely possible to wear contact lenses in the UAE’s climate, but extra care is necessary to maintain comfort and eye health. The combination of high temperatures, dusty weather and exposure to air conditioning can lead to dryness and irritation. To counter this, patients are advised to:

• Use preservative-free lubricating eye drops as recommended by their optometrist
• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct airflow from AC vents or fans
• Choose highly breathable silicone hydrogel lenses that retain moisture better
• Stay well-hydrated, particularly during the summer months

3.Are coloured contact lenses safe to use for cosmetic purposes?

Coloured contact lenses can be a safe and enjoyable way to change or enhance the appearance of your eyes, but only when prescribed and fitted by a qualified eye care professional. At Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE, all cosmetic lenses are selected based on your eye’s curvature, tear film, and overall health, ensuring safety and comfort.

Using coloured lenses purchased over the counter or online without professional fitting is strongly discouraged. These lenses may be of poor quality, lack oxygen permeability, or carry a higher risk of infection, inflammation, or corneal damage. In some cases, improper use of cosmetic lenses has led to vision loss. If you are interested in using coloured lenses, please seek a consultation with an optometrist to ensure they are suitable for your eyes.

4.What should I do if I lose or damage my contact lens?

If you lose or damage your contact lens, it is important to avoid self-replacement with old or spare lenses without professional advice. Damaged or contaminated lenses can cause corneal injury, infection, or long-term irritation. Instead, we recommend using spectacles as a temporary alternative if available and booking an appointment with an eye specialist to get new lenses

5.Can I swim or shower while wearing contact lenses?

No, it is not recommended to swim, shower, or use hot tubs while wearing contact lenses unless you wear watertight swimming goggles. Water can introduce harmful bacteria and microorganisms to the eyes, increasing the risk of serious infections. Always remove lenses before water exposure or speak with your eye care provider about daily disposables and protective options if swimming is part of your routine.

6.How often should I have my eyes checked if I wear contact lenses?

Individuals who wear contact lenses should ideally have an eye examination every 6 to 12 months, or as advised by their specialist. Regular check-ups help monitor eye health, update prescriptions, and ensure that lenses continue to fit well and function safely. Skipping appointments may lead to complications, even if you feel fine.

7. How long does a contact lens fitting take?
A typical contact lens consultation and fitting may take 30–60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case and whether you are a new wearer. The session includes assessing your eye shape, tear film, vision needs, and trial lens fitting to ensure comfort and clarity. Patients may also be asked to return for a follow-up visit to assess fit after a trial period.