A new trend in cosmetic contact lenses has caught a lot of attention in the media lately due in part to a recent music video debut from pop phenom Lady GaGa.  A ‘Circle Contact’ is a specific type of cosmetic contact lens that is manufactured in South Korea, in which the iris appears larger due to the opaque design of the large diameter contact lens covering a portion of the sclera (the white part of the eye).  This trend is modeled after Japanese anime cartoon characters, in which the eyes (and in particular, the pupils) of characters are enlarged to make the appearance of doll-like eyes. While Lady GaGa’s look from her “Bad Romance” video is reportedly computerized, the trend of purchasing the non-FDA approved contacts is growing.

Watch this clip from ABC News detailing the dangers of this trend.

‘Circle Contacts’ are not FDA approved and are not approved for purchase in the US as sales of lenses without a valid prescription have been banned since 2005.   While the cartoonish-look may be desirable to some, the potential dangers and risks outweigh any fashionable benefit.

Contact lenses are a medical device. To prevent potential eye problems, some of which may be serious, contacts need to be fit properly, require a prescription from a licensed eye care professional and the health of the eye needs to be monitored periodically.   Always consult an eye doctor before considering or using any type of contact lenses.  To find an eye doctor closest to you, please click here.