Contact lenses offer relief from cosmetic defects, still pose risks

October 14, 2009

Cat eye or white-out contacts are a trendy (and creepy) addition to a Halloween get-up, but cosmetic lenses have been around since the 1980s to correct cosmetic defects of the eye.

Patients who suffer from conditions such as a clouded cornea, poorly aligned eyes, a distorted pupil, torn irises, or even a difference in eye color can benefit from painted contact lenses, the Suburban Chicago News reports.

In the past, the lenses were hand-painted and custom-tailored to each individual patient. The popularity of cosmetic contact lenses rose when patients began using mass-produced colored lenses just to enhance their natural eye color, according to the news source.

However, there seems to be higher risk of infection with plano (non-prescription) lenses when they are not used under a doctor's supervision.

The FDA warns that plano lenses carry the same risks to the eye as normal contacts, including conjunctivitis (pink eye), corneal ulcers, corneal abrasion and vision impairment or blindness. For those who understand the risks, tinted lenses can offer relief from a cosmetic defect or even just add the finishing touch to a Halloween costume.

Before purchasing a pair, the FDA strongly urges patients to be properly fitted for lenses by an eye care professional and to buy the lenses from a reputable source.