What is the best way to store an old pair of rigid gas permeable lenses?
SEP 01, 2017
Question:
Recently I got new contact lenses, and I would like to keep the old pair as a back-up. They are rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. I would like to know the proper way to store RGP lenses for a long time. Some websites say I should always soak them in solution and change solution once in a while. Some website says lenses should be dry for a long time in storage. Which one is correct?
Answer:
Rigid gas permeable lenses are best stored in a dry contact lens case if not worn for a long period of time. Solutions get contaminated with bacteria or other infectious agents over time, so long term storage in solution is not a good idea. Lens cleaner and then a saline rinse for RGP lenses should then be used prior to placing them in the eye after removing from the dry case. If the new RGP lenses are different shape or curvature compared to the old lenses, the old lenses will probably not fit as well as they did in the past so this can cause issues with the cornea. You can check with your contact fitter to see if the shapes are different. They will always be able to give you proper information on the type of contacts you are wearing.