Rigid Gas Permeable (GP) lenses are advanced contact lenses made from oxygen-permeable material that keeps the cornea healthy while delivering crisp, stable vision. Unlike soft lenses that flex with the cornea’s shape, GP lenses retain their form, creating a smooth optical surface that corrects even complex vision problems.

GP lenses are especially effective for astigmatism, keratoconus, corneal scarring, high prescriptions, and post-surgical complications such as LASIK or radial keratotomy (RK). For patients where soft lenses fall short, GPs provide reliable clarity and comfort, making them one of the most trusted specialty lens options.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) contact lenses have several advantages over soft lenses. Thanks to their rigid material, RGPs provide sharper vision for irregular corneas, astigmatism, keratoconus, and post-surgery vision issues. They are also more durable, longer lasting, and resist protein or bacterial buildup, making them a healthier long-term option. However, patients should know that RGPs may require a longer adaptation period, can feel less comfortable initially, and are more prone to dislodgement or dryness in dusty environments.

On the other hand, soft contact lenses offer immediate comfort and are less likely to fall out, making them ideal for active lifestyles. Yet, they often cannot deliver the same level of precise correction as RGP lenses for certain complex prescriptions. Ultimately, the choice between RGP and soft contact lenses depends on the patient’s vision needs, lifestyle, and comfort preferences, which is why a professional fitting and consultation are essential.

Multifocal Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses are an excellent choice for individuals with presbyopia — a common age-related condition that affects near vision after age 40. Unlike traditional single-vision lenses, multifocal RGPs feature multiple prescription zones within each lens, providing sharp vision at near, intermediate, and far distances. This advanced design allows wearers to seamlessly switch focus between reading, computer work, and distance vision, without constantly swapping between readers or bifocals.

By offering clearer vision across varying focal points, multifocal RGP contact lenses provide convenience, visual independence, and a more natural visual experience for people with presbyopia.

At The Raleigh Contact Lens Institute, our doctors have extensive experience in fitting and adjusting RGP lenses, whether modifying your current pair or helping you transition into a new set. RGPs remain a reliable option for many patients, especially those already familiar with their feel and benefits.

However, for patients seeking the highest level of comfort, stability, and clarity, we typically recommend scleral lenses. Thanks to their larger size and advanced customization, scleral lenses often outperform RGPs in both visual quality and long-term comfort. Still, whether you prefer RGPs or scleral lenses, our team combines expertise, technology, and personalized care to deliver the best custom contact lens experience in the Southeastern United States.

While Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses have been a trusted option for decades, they come with certain disadvantages when compared to scleral contact lenses. Many patients who transition from RGPs to sclerals report higher satisfaction and comfort. Here’s why:

• Comfort – Scleral lenses are typically more comfortable than RGPs. Because scleral lenses vault completely over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white of the eye), they avoid direct contact with the sensitive corneal surface.
• Stability and Consistent Vision – The larger size of scleral lenses makes them more stable and less prone to dislodgement or shifting while blinking, ensuring more consistent and reliable vision compared to RGPs.
• Dry Eye Relief – Scleral lenses create a fluid reservoir between the lens and the cornea, which continuously hydrates the eye. This makes them especially helpful for patients with dry eye syndrome or ocular surface disease.
• Reduced Debris Sensitivity – Thanks to their larger diameter, scleral lenses are less likely to trap dust or debris under the lens, which is a common discomfort with RGPs.

For patients seeking greater comfort, clarity, and stability, scleral lenses often provide a superior solution.

Learn more about scleral contact lenses here

While scleral contact lenses are often considered the gold standard for complex eye conditions, Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses still hold several key advantages. Here are some reasons why patients and doctors may choose RGP lenses over sclerals:

• Lower Cost – On average, scleral lenses can cost around $500 more than RGP lenses. For many patients, RGPs are a more affordable option while still delivering clear vision.
• Simpler Fitting Process – The fitting process for scleral lenses can be more complex, requiring advanced technology and multiple visits. In comparison, RGP lenses typically involve a quicker, less complicated fitting process.
• Easier Insertion and Removal – Some patients find it more straightforward to handle RGP lenses. Sclerals, due to their larger size, may require more practice and special tools for insertion and removal.

Final Thoughts

The choice between RGP vs. scleral lenses depends on the individual’s eye condition, vision needs, lifestyle, and comfort preferences. For some, the affordability and simplicity of RGPs make them a suitable option, while others may benefit more from the enhanced comfort and stability of scleral lenses.