Can You Wear Contact Lenses on One Eye with 400-Diopter Myopia? - Ophthalmology

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If both eyes have a myopia of 400 degrees, is it possible to wear contact lenses on only one eye?


Hello Dr.
Chen! Thank you for being willing to answer my question! I checked the historical records of your hospital and saw that a member of the public asked the same question (https://adoctor.tw/article/30197).
However, that person had one eye with myopia of over 100 degrees and the other with hyperopia of 100 degrees.
I would like to ask if I can wear contact lenses only on one eye since both of my eyes have myopia of 400 degrees.
Thank you for your response! Best regards.

David, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/20

Dr. Chen Anping reply Ophthalmology


It is not advisable to wear contact lenses in only one eye.

Reply Date: 2016/02/20

More Info


When it comes to wearing contact lenses, especially for individuals with significant myopia, such as 400 diopters, it is generally not advisable to wear a contact lens on only one eye. The primary reason for this recommendation is the potential for visual imbalance and discomfort.
In your case, both eyes have the same level of myopia (400 diopters). If you were to wear a contact lens on just one eye, the eye without the lens would not have any correction, leading to a disparity in visual acuity between the two eyes. This can cause issues such as double vision, difficulty focusing, and overall visual discomfort. The brain relies on input from both eyes to create a single, clear image, and when one eye is uncorrected, it can disrupt this process.

Moreover, wearing a contact lens in one eye while leaving the other eye uncorrected can lead to a condition known as "anisometropia," where the two eyes have significantly different refractive power. This can result in symptoms like eye strain, headaches, and difficulty with depth perception. It is crucial to maintain a balanced visual system, especially for individuals with high levels of myopia.

For those with myopia, contact lenses can provide a more natural field of vision compared to glasses, as they move with the eye and do not obstruct peripheral vision. However, it is essential to have both eyes corrected to ensure optimal visual performance. If you are considering contact lenses, it is best to consult with an eye care professional who can provide a comprehensive eye examination and discuss the best options for your specific needs.

In addition to the visual considerations, there are also hygiene and health factors to consider when using contact lenses. Proper care and maintenance of contact lenses are crucial to prevent infections and complications. Always ensure that your lenses are cleaned and stored correctly, and follow your eye care provider's instructions regarding wear time and replacement schedules.

If you have concerns about your vision or the use of contact lenses, I recommend scheduling an appointment with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. They can provide personalized advice and help you find the best solution for your vision needs. In summary, wearing contact lenses on one eye with 400 diopters of myopia is not advisable due to the potential for visual imbalance and discomfort. It is always best to have both eyes properly corrected to ensure optimal visual health and comfort.

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