Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses are a type of hard contact lens made from durable materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the eye—unlike the older hard lenses made of PMMA (which did not let any oxygen through).

They offer excellent vision correction, particularly for people with challenging or high prescriptions, irregular astigmatism, or other corneal irregularities.

RGP lenses are smaller in diameter than soft lenses, typically covering just the cornea rather than the entire visible eye. They are custom-fitted to match the wearer’s eye and can last for one to two years with proper care, making them cost-effective in the long run. Additionally, they are resistant to deposits such as proteins and lipids, which can accumulate more easily on soft lenses.

Key Features of RGP Lenses

  • Rigid Material: Holds its shape on the eye, providing sharp vision even with irregular corneas.

  • Gas Permeable: Allows oxygen to reach the cornea, promoting better eye health.

  • Custom Fit: Made to fit your individual eye shape.

  • Durable: Lasts longer than soft lenses (often 1–2 years with good care).

  • Smaller in Size: Usually covers just part of the cornea, not the entire eye.

Benefits of RGP Lenses

  • Superior Vision: Especially for high astigmatism, keratoconus, or post-surgical eyes.

  • Oxygen Flow: Keeps the cornea healthier compared to older hard lenses.

  • Resists Deposits: Less likely to accumulate protein or lipids than soft lenses.

  • Cost-Effective Over Time: Higher upfront cost but longer lifespan than soft lenses.

Drawbacks of RGP Lenses

  • Initial Discomfort: Can take days to weeks to adapt to the feel on the eye.

  • Lens Awareness: You can feel them more than soft lenses, especially early on.

  • Dislodgement Risk: Smaller size means they can move or fall out more easily.

  • Requires Consistency: Wearing them daily is important to stay adapted.

Who Benefits Most from RGP Lenses?

  • People with challenging or high prescriptions

  • Those with irregular corneas, including keratoconus

  • Individuals with post-surgical corneal irregularities

  • Anyone needing high-quality vision correction and can tolerate a bit of adaptation