What can occur if excessive pressure is used to clean GP lenses with cleaners?

• A. Warpage and fracture (worse with high DK lenses)
• B. No harm
• C. Increased oxygen permeability
• D. Tearing only

Answer: (A)

Excessive force during cleaning can physically deform GP lenses. These lenses are rigid and hold their shape, so squeezing or scrubbing with strong pressure can bend the optic zone or the edges, a change known as warpage. Warpage alters the lens’ curvature, which can disturb how the lens fits on the eye and degrade vision due to optical distortion. If the pressure is high enough, microcracks can form and may propagate into a fracture, potentially making the lens unusable. Lenses made from higher oxygen-permeable materials (high DK) are often more flexible than older, stiffer options, so they’re especially prone to warpage under aggressive cleaning. This is not about gaining oxygen permeability or about tearing being the only damage; the main risks are permanent distortion of fit and possible fracture. Gentle cleaning per manufacturer guidelines helps prevent these issues.