8/16    how do I know when I should replace my soft contacts?  I have 4 week
                        That burning, stinging sensation_/
        lenses, but I've been wearing them for way more than 4 weeks without
        any apparent problems.
        \_ clean them well and use the weekly enzyme thingies and you should
           be able to use them a lot longer.  They will eventually rip though.
           \_ I can easily go 5 or 6 months w/ my 4 week disposables, just
              with a daily rinsing.  It depends on your biology, how you
              build up protein on the lenses.
              \_ well, that's my question.  how do you know you can go 5-6
                 months?  is it just to the point where they rip?
                 \_ if you're noticing less clarity or comfort, you should
                    probably get rid of them. the reduced oxygen flow can
                    cause permanent eye damage over the long run, according
                    to my eye doctor. of course, maybe he just wants me to
                    buy more contacts. the risks you want to take are up to
                    you though.
                    \_ so a 1-month lenses worn for 6 months allow less
                       oxygen flow than 1-year lenses worn for 6 months?
                       how does that work?
                       \_ I'm assuming you're talking about disposables.
                          Personally, I use two-week disposables that
                          I don't take off until I'm throwing them away,
                          so protein buildup and stuff is definitely a
                          factor. There is also only so much that you
                          can do to reduce buildup even if you do clean
                          them regularly. Anyway, you really should ask
                          a professional about things like this.