Initially, you will probably be more aware of a rigid gas permeable lens on your eye compared to a soft lens. However, for many, this sensation typically fades as your eyes adapt. Many wearers find them comfortable after a short adjustment period.

Your guide to specialty contact lenses

Q: Are specialty lenses more expensive?

The initial cost for specialty lenses is often higher than for standard soft lenses because they are custom-designed and manufactured for your specific eyes. However, since many GP and scleral lenses can last for a year or more, they can be more cost-effective over the long term compared to frequently replacing disposable lenses.

Q: Can I switch to a different brand of lens on my own?

No, you should never switch the brand or type of contact lens without consulting your eye doctor. Each lens is prescribed based on its material, size, and fit for your individual eyes. A different lens, even if it seems similar, could be uncomfortable or unsafe for you.

Q: What are considered specialty contact lenses?

While the definition may vary depending on the context, many eye doctors consider pecialty contact lenses to bey any contacts that aren’t soft, reusable lenses. This can include rigid gas permeable (RGP or GP) lenses, hybrid lenses, and scleral lenses.

Medically reviewed on January 23, 2026

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Published on May 20, 2026

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5 minute read

Key takeaways

Who needs specialty lenses?

Types of specialty lenses

Rigid gas permeable lenses

PROS	CONS
May provide clearer vision than soft contact lenses	May take longer to get used to than soft contact lenses
Great for vision issues involving irregular cornea shapes	Require strict cleaning and care
Do not need to be replaced as often as daily disposables or other reusable soft contact lenses	Higher initial cost

Hybrid lenses—hard and soft material in the same lens

PROS	CONS
“Best of both worlds” approach providing comfort and clarity benefits	May take longer to get used to than soft contact lenses
Great for vision issues involving irregular cornea shapes	Require strict cleaning and care
	Limited options and fewer eye doctors who fit them compared to more common lens types

Scleral lenses

PROS	CONS
Good for those with corneal diseases, eye surface problems like dry eye, and corneal damage.	May take longer to get used to than soft contact lenses.
Ability to correct more severe refractive errors.	Require strict cleaning and care.
Designed to hold saline or medicated solutions against your cornea.	Higher initial cost.

Taking care of specialty lenses

Specialty lenses vs traditional soft contact lenses

What’s next?

Schedule an appointment with an eye doctor

Frequently asked questions

Do hard lenses hurt?

Are specialty lenses more expensive?

Can I switch to a different brand of lens on my own?

What are considered specialty contact lenses?