Depending on the type, manufacturer, and extent of your insurance, contact lenses can run you anywhere from $150 to $1,500 each year.
They often cost $20 to $30 per box. For between $200 and $500, the majority of people with ordinary prescriptions should be able to purchase a year’s supply of contact lenses.
Although the price range for contacts can appear wide, it depends on many other aspects. Specialty contacts that need a stronger prescription or are less prevalent may be more expensive than contacts made for mild to moderate nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia) (farsightedness).
The price of rigid gas-permeable contact lenses
Hard contact lenses constructed of plastic are known as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. They can frequently provide clearer vision but are less flexible than the softer contacts.
Since the majority are devoid of water, there is frequently less chance of bacterial growth. Compared to soft contacts, they are more prone to being dislodged, and debris can get trapped underneath them.
RGP contacts are generally more expensive than disposable contacts because they can be used every day for up to a year. RGP contacts typically cost around $100 per lens or $200 for a pair. Discount stores may be able to sell these lenses for as little as $30 per, and they frequently provide discounts and incentives for large purchases. Insurance could reduce these expenses.
Brands and specialty lenses might have different prices. Myopia-correcting contacts may cost more than those made to address astigmatism or corneal refractive treatment.
How Much Do Daily Contacts Cost?
There are many possibilities because daily use contacts are comfortable, adaptable, and common. There are three types of daily disposable contacts: weekly daily reusable contacts, and monthly daily reusable contacts. Usually, a box of daily disposable contacts has 30 or 90 pairs of lenses.
As refractive error or specialist needs increase, contact lens cost rise. The most expensive lenses are those that compensate for presbyopia, astigmatism, or bifocal or multifocal vision problems (farsightedness related to age).
More recent technologies that promise to be more oxygen-permeable or moist to avoid dry eyes may also be found in more pricey lenses. Additionally, colored or UV-protective contacts frequently have a higher price tag.
Boxes of varied sizes are also available for disposable contacts that are intended to be replaced on a weekly, monthly, or predetermined basis. Every night, these contacts are removed, cleaned, and used the advised number of times before being discarded. Frequently, it can be more economical to purchase a box containing additional lenses.
Costs of Contacts with Extended Wear
Depending on the type, you may be able to leave some contacts in your eyes overnight for up to a week or even a month. These contacts are certified for extended usage. Compared to daily usage contacts, these are designed to be more breathable. Even though contacts are allowed for nighttime wear, the Mayo Clinic advises against it since it increases the risk of eye infections.
