Finding the right contact lenses should feel comfortable, clear, and easy—but for many people, standard soft lenses simply don’t work. At North Coast Optometry, we specialize in helping patients with unique eye shapes, medical conditions, or comfort challenges enjoy the freedom and clarity of contact lenses through customized hard-to-fit contact lens solutions.
Whether you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for contacts or you’ve struggled with uncomfortable lenses in the past, this guide will help you understand your options—and how our experienced team can help.
What Are Hard-to-Fit Contact Lenses?
“Hard-to-fit” doesn’t mean “impossible to fit.” It simply means your eyes require a more customized approach due to factors such as:
- Keratoconus
- Astigmatism
- Dry eye disease
- Post-surgical corneas (LASIK, RK, etc.)
- Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC)
- Presbyopia
- Irregular or steep/flat corneas
At North Coast Optometry, we use advanced diagnostic tools to measure your cornea and design contact lenses built specifically for your eyes.
Most Common Types of Hard-to-Fit Contact Lenses
1. Scleral Lenses
These large-diameter rigid lenses vault over the cornea, providing comfort and stability.
Ideal for: Keratoconus, dry eye, irregular corneas.
2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
Durable lenses offering crisp, stable vision.
Ideal for: Astigmatism, keratoconus, high prescriptions.
3. Hybrid Lenses
A combination of RGP clarity and soft-lens comfort.
Ideal for: Patients intolerant to full RGP lenses.
4. Toric Contact Lenses
Designed specifically to correct astigmatism.
Ideal for: Rotationally stable astigmatism correction.
5. Multifocal Lenses
Allow clear near and distance vision.
Ideal for: Adults 40+ with presbyopia.
6. Custom Soft Lenses
Made-to-measure soft lenses for irregular eye shapes.
Ideal for: High prescriptions, unique corneal curves.
How North Coast Optometry Fits Hard-to-Fit Contact Lenses
1. Comprehensive Evaluation
We assess overall eye health, corneal structure, and tear quality.
2. Corneal Mapping & Diagnostics
Advanced imaging allows us to create a precise contact lens plan.
3. Diagnostic Lens Trial
You’ll try specialized lenses in-office so we can evaluate the fit.
4. Custom Lens Creation
Your lenses are ordered to match your unique corneal measurements.
5. Follow-Up Visits
We adjust and refine the fit to achieve the best clarity and comfort.
6. Long-Term Support
Our team provides ongoing care, replacement guidance, and yearly assessments.
Hard-to-Fit Contact Lens Q&A
Q: Does “hard to fit” mean I cannot wear contacts?
A: No. It simply means you need a more customized lens design. Many patients previously told they “can’t wear contacts” successfully wear them after specialty fitting.
Q: Are specialty lenses uncomfortable?
A: Most patients report great comfort—especially with scleral and hybrid lenses.
Q: How long does fitting take?
A: Initial evaluations are typically 60–90 minutes, with follow-ups for adjustments.
Q: Are specialty lenses more expensive?
A: Yes, because they are custom-made. However, they often last longer and provide superior vision.
Q: Can these lenses help with keratoconus?
A: Absolutely. Scleral and RGP lenses are often the preferred treatment for keratoconus-related vision issues.
Q: Does insurance cover them?
A: Some medical plans may offer coverage if lenses are considered medically necessary.
Q: Can I sleep in specialty lenses?
A: Usually no. Overnight wear increases the risk of infection.
Why Choose North Coast Optometry?
- Experts in specialty and hard-to-fit lenses
- Personalized, patient-first approach
- Advanced diagnostic technology
- Solutions for keratoconus, dry eye, and irregular corneas
- Long-term comfort and vision management
- Friendly and supportive care team
Contact North Coast Optometry
North Coast Optometry
📍 3915 Mission Ave #2, Oceanside, CA 92057
📞 Phone: (760) 757-8771
🌐 Website: https://northcoastoptometry.com/
📅 Request an Appointment:
https://scheduler.eyefinity.com/index.html?domainName=northcoastoptometry.info
