Why Did I Choose Glasses Over Contact Lenses?

My journey from contact lenses to glasses began with a simple question: how to find a comfortable vision solution after experiencing debilitating dry eyes and an allergic reaction to my contact lenses. Ultimately, I made the decision to return to wearing glasses, a choice that brought both relief and a newfound appreciation for the luxury of a clear pair of lenses.

Dry Eyes and LASIK

Dry eyes can be a challenging condition, and for me, it pushed me to consider LASIK surgery as a potential solution. LASIK worked wonders, significantly improving my vision and allowing me to see without relying on contact lenses. However, the cost and the fact that LASIK is considered a cosmetic procedure meant that it was out of my budget for several years. This period of waiting gave me the time to explore other options, such as various types of contact lenses tailored to address specific vision issues.

Challenging Allergies and Expensive Solutions

Despite trying numerous types of soft contacts, each designed to address my unique vision problems, I still found myself battling an allergic reaction to the materials of the lenses. The pain and discomfort were intense, and the reactions persisted despite following all care instructions meticulously. Eventually, after multiple unsuccessful attempts and significant financial expenditure, I decided it was time to reevaluate my options and consider the long-term consequences of continued contact lens use.

A Return to Glasses

Looking back, my glasses were the first solution that addressed my visual needs from a very early age. Fitting me with glasses at age 6, my parents and teachers noticed I could no longer read the board in class, marking the beginning of my experience with vision correction. My first contact lens was introduced more than two decades later, driven by my wife's encouragement. She wore contacts, and sharing her positive experiences led me to make the switch. The vast improvements in my peripheral vision and depth perception under contact lenses were truly remarkable.

The choice to switch back to glasses after 20 years of wear came after a visit to the optometrist. He informed me that I would need to transition to progressive lenses, or revert to relying on full-time glasses. I opted for the latter, knowing the discomfort I had experienced with contacts and the various incidents that made wearing them problematic. These included a painful experience with a contact lens getting a speck of something in my eye, causing severe irritation and redness. Since then, I have firmly stayed away from contact lenses, even though my experiences with the new soft contact lenses available today might be different.

Workplace Challenges and Flirting with Glasses

My choice to return to glasses was also influenced by my workplace experiences. Working for a doctor who specialized in contact lenses, I found the hard lenses to be uncomfortable and often painful. I reverted to wearing glasses, feeling more at ease without the added stress of trying to make contact lenses fit comfortably.

.Regularly using the subway in New York City meant that I was constantly close to sources of dust and dirt, which could easily cause issues with my contacts. The necessity to frequently adjust or even remove my contacts for hygiene reasons was a significant hassle. On one particularly uncomfortable day, a speck of something went under my lens, leading to excruciating pain and a red, teary eye. I never wanted to risk such problems or potential infections again.

Ultimately, my glasses have become a fashionable and practical solution. Wearing glasses has allowed me to maintain my social and flirtatious lifestyle, often using them as a useful prop. The glasses not only help me see clearly but also serve as a personal statement, making me feel comfortable in both professional and social settings.