Contact Lenses
Hybrid Contact Lenses
A hybrid lens has a rigid gas permeable centre bonded to a soft outer skirt. The rigid centre delivers the optical quality of a rigid lens while the soft skirt provides the comfort and stability of a soft one.
Hybrids exist to solve a specific problem: patients who need rigid lens optics but cannot tolerate rigid lens comfort. The rigid centre corrects corneal irregularity properly, and the soft skirt sits on the surrounding eye so the wearer never feels a rigid edge.
They also centre extremely well and are far more stable than a rigid lens, which makes them useful for active wearers and for corneas where a rigid lens tends to decentre.
They are not a universal answer. They are more expensive than either component type, and for advanced irregularity a scleral lens usually still does better. Where they excel is the middle ground.
Questions and answers
How do hybrids compare with sclerals?
Hybrids are smaller and easier to insert. Sclerals handle more advanced irregularity and provide the fluid reservoir that helps severe dry eye. Which suits you depends on your corneal shape and surface health.
Are they comfortable straight away?
Considerably more so than a standard rigid lens, because the edge resting on your eye is soft. Adaptation is closer to a soft lens than a rigid one.
Who are they best for?
Mild to moderate keratoconus, irregular astigmatism, and anyone who needs rigid optics but has struggled with rigid lens comfort.
Talk to someone about hybrid contact lenses
Appointments are scheduled two per hour, so there is time to answer questions properly. Call (480) 706-3937 or request a time online.