Have you ever wondered how manufacturers make your tiny, almost invisible contact lenses? The process combines hi-tech machinery, precision engineering, and stringent safety protocols, resulting in a sophisticated product that enhances your vision. Continue reading to learn more about the fascinating world of contact lens manufacturing.
Lens Design
Creating contacts starts with a precision computer-aided design (CAD) program. Here, the optometrist inputs the patient’s measurements and specifications. These are determined based on a comprehensive eye exam and the patient’s eye health, vision needs, and lifestyle.
Material Preparation
This step involves selecting the correct type of plastic or silicone hydrogel necessary for the specific type of contact lens. The optician selects the materials carefully based on their properties, such as oxygen permeability and comfort on the eye. These materials are then carefully cleaned, heated to specific temperatures and treated with certain chemicals.
Lens Molding
Molding starts by pouring the material into a specially designed mold of the individual’s lens specifications. This mold is placed into a machine that applies heat or ultraviolet light, causing the material to harden into the shape of the lens. Once the lens has solidified, it is carefully removed from the mold, marking the completion of the lens structure.
Curing, Cutting and Polishing
Curing involves subjecting the lens to specific temperature and humidity conditions for a determined period. Shaping and fine-tuning follow based on the wearer’s prescription from their eye exam. Smoothing and rounding the lenses’ edges reduce eye irritation, ensuring optimal vision correction and comfort when worn.
Inspection
After the lenses are formed and polished, they undergo meticulous inspection. The inspectors examine each lens under a microscope to check for imperfections or particles left behind from manufacturing. The lenses must be free of all defects to ensure they are safe and comfortable for the wearer.
Different Contact Lenses and Their Manufacturing Process
While contact lenses come in different types, the making process is similar. There may be minor alterations based on the lens type and requirements.
- Soft Contact Lenses: These lenses go through a process called spin casting. The liquid lens material, usually silicone hydrogel, is placed in a mold and spun to create the lens shape.
- Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: RGP lenses use oxygen-permeable plastic. The manufacturing process involves cutting and polishing a small plastic button.
- Multifocal Lenses: These lenses have different powers in different zones of the lens to correct presbyopia. The manufacturing process is complex, requiring precision to ensure the different zones align with the wearer’s eye.
- Cosmetic and Prosthetic Lenses: Cosmetic lenses can change the appearance of the wearer’s eyes. Prosthetic lenses cover eye disfigurements. These lenses undergo coloring and painting to ensure they meet the required specifications.
Quality Optical Care You Can Rely On
Like eyeglasses, producing contact lenses is an intricate process, necessitating the perfect balance of material and craftsmanship. For your vision care needs in Rockville and Potomac, MD, trust the experts at Eyes On Norbeck. Call us at (301) 238-7199 or fill out our contact page to schedule an appointment!
