How long can continuous wear GP lenses be worn before removal?

• A. Up to 30 days and nights
• B. Up to 7 days
• C. Up to 60 days
• D. Up to 14 days

Answer: (A)

Continuous wear duration for gas permeable lenses depends on the lens design and its approved use. For GP lenses that are specifically approved for extended wear, the manufacturer guidelines allow up to 30 days and nights of continuous wear. This maximum reflects the balance between providing enough oxygen to the cornea through the lens material (high Dk) and the need to monitor and manage tear exchange, lens surface condition, and ocular health. While GP lenses aren’t as commonly worn continuously as some extended-wear soft lenses, certain high-Dk GP designs are approved for this longer wear period under strict supervision and with proper fitting and follow-up. The other options (shorter durations or unusually long times) don’t align with those approved extended-wear guidelines, and exceeding the recommended duration increases risks such as hypoxia, edema, and infection.