Can I Use My Unused Yearly Contact Lenses?

Many individuals find themselves in the situation of having yearly contact lenses that haven't been used for several months. The question arises: can these lenses still be used? The answer depends on several factors, including proper storage and the methods you use to disinfect and prepare the lenses for rewear.

Storage Conditions

To determine if your yearly contact lenses can still be used, it's crucial to consider the storage conditions. If the lenses have been stored in a well-sealed lens case and the disinfection process has not been compromised, they may still be usable. However, it's important to ensure thorough cleaning and re-disinfection before wearing them again.

Some lens cases may not seal well, leading to moisture loss and potential damage or contamination of the lenses. If your lenses were stored in a case with poor sealing, they may have dried out or become contaminated, making them unsuitable for reuse.

Best Practices for Storage and Disinfection

Peroxide Care Systems

For lenses that utilize peroxide care systems like CLEARcare Plus, the process is straightforward but with some limitations. Peroxide solutions effectively clean the lenses, but they are only safe for storage for about a week. If you intend to store the lenses for an extended period, it's important to ensure they are properly disinfected overnight and stored in new fresh solution every few months. Regular cleaning and disinfection are essential to maintain their sterility.

Multipurpose Disinfectant Systems (MPDS)

Multipurpose disinfectant systems (MPDS) are another popular option for contact lens care. These solutions can safely store lenses for up to 30 days, provided the lens case is well-sealed. However, leaks in the lens case can compromise the disinfection process, leading to contamination and potential damage to the lenses. It's important to ensure that the lenses are cleaned and disinfected overnight before each use, especially if stored for extended periods.

Usage and Storage Duration

Infrequent wearers should regularly clean and disinfect their lenses overnight before reusing them. With MPDS solutions, the disinfectant can weaken over time beyond the recommended storage period of 30 days. Therefore, it's advisable to store them in fresh disinfected solution every few months to maintain their effectiveness.

Another key factor is the shelf life of MPDS products. They are only effective for 90 days from the date of opening. Any unused portion should be discarded and replaced with a fresh bottle when needed.

Final Word on Bacterial Growth

Once the storage solution in your lenses has been in use for more than two months, there is a high likelihood of bacterial growth. This growth cannot be eliminated by simply changing the storage solution. Therefore, it's recommended to discard any lenses that have been stored for a significant period, especially if the storage conditions were not ideal.

If the lenses are hard, they can be cleaned and re-solutioned, but you should wait at least 12 hours before attempting to use them again. This ensures any bacteria or contaminants have been thoroughly removed or neutralized.

Remember, maintaining the sterility and health of your contact lenses is essential for clear vision and eye comfort. If in doubt, it's better to err on the side of caution and replace your lenses to avoid any potential health issues.