Air Optix Night & Day vs. old Focus Night & Day

purplelife · #1 (**permalink**) 05-08-2009, 05:58 AM

Hi all,

I'm new here. Wanted to share my story to see if any others are having the same issues.

I first started wearing contacts about 7 years ago. For the first two years, I tried every brand and solution combo possible but nothing was comfortable - after 6-8 hours my eyes were done (dryness, feeling them, etc.). Finally my eye doc suggested Focus Night & Day and the difference was truly night and day! They were PERFECT and comfortable from day 1, and I've been wearing them all day every day without any problems for the past 5 years. I can't even feel them at all in eye, it's like wearing nothing and truly a miracle after all my struggles.

A few weeks ago I visited my eye doctor to get an updated prescription because I was running low on lenses, and he informs me that Focus Night & Day have been discontinued and replaced with Air Optix Night & Day. I panic, and he reassures me that they are made from the same material and I shouldn't notice any difference.

Well... to put it plainly, the Air Optix Night & Day are NOT the same as the original. My eyes are drier, and by dinnertime literally screaming at me to take the lenses out. I've now worn the Air Optix Night & Day for almost 2 weeks, and the problems have continued. On a few days I got so sick of it I switched back to the old lenses (I still have 1 pair left...) and the improvement in comfort was IMMEDIATE.

So... I'm pretty much devastated. I've got an active lifestyle and have taken for granted wearing contacts for the last 5 years. Anyone else having a similar issue? Can anyone suggest a lens that might work for me? If others are having similar problems let's start a petition to Ciba Vision to bring back the original Focus Night & Day. If a product ain't broke they shouldn't be fixing it!!!

mbscmom · #2 (**permalink**) 05-08-2009, 02:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by purplelife

Well... to put it plainly, the Air Optix Night & Day are NOT the same as the original. My eyes are drier, and by dinnertime literally screaming at me to take the lenses out. I've now worn the Air Optix Night & Day for almost 2 weeks, and the problems have continued. On a few days I got so sick of it I switched back to the old lenses (I still have 1 pair left...) and the improvement in comfort was IMMEDIATE.

purplelife,
I could have written this post! I'm having the EXACT same issue! After the 3rd trip back to the doc he has given me another trial pair of Air Optix Night & Day in a "different shape"- (huh?), but as I type this I'm blinking rapidly trying to make the right lens behave! In between times, I've tried B&L PureVision, which was just ok - but better than the Air Optix, now that I've had 2 trial pairs. It makes me crazy to think that my days of 30 days of continuous, comfortable wear are over! Can anybody help??

purplelife · #3 (**permalink**) 05-08-2009, 03:06 PM

Hi mbscmom,

thanks so much for your reply! I have sent one email complaint already to Ciba Vision, and today I actually called them. I spoke with a very nice woman on the phone and expressed my STRONG dissatisfaction with the new lenses. I asked if anyone else had called yet to complain, and she said she wasn't aware of any issues. However, the switch to Air Optix just happened in March (figures... if I'd gone to my eye doc a few weeks earlier I'd have been set for another couple of years at least with the old version), and so there probably hasn't been very many people using the Air Optix yet.

I'm hoping that once more people make the switch, there will be lots more complaints and they go back to the old version. However, for now I plan to return to my eye doc and start the process of trying other brands... ugh...

I knew this day would come at some point since no product is produced forever, but I'm just so disappointed. I know it seems trivial to be upset about something like contact lenses, but I just took it for granted to get up every morning and pop in my Focus Night & Day.

fastfission · #4 (**permalink**) 05-09-2009, 07:12 PM

I'm so glad I came across this thread as my experience is exactly the same as described here.

Having used Focus Night and Day for many years I was informed that it was now called Air Optix Night and Day but was the same product. Last year I ordered 6 months worth and can confirm that these new lenses are garbage and not at all similar to the old Focus Night and Day. They dry my eyes within hours and cause a build up of mucous over the lens. Just horrible. I was wondering if it was me. Now I see others are having the same issues.

To confuse matters further it now appears these dubious Air Optix Night and Day lenses have been relabelled Air Optix Night and Day Aqua but again the manufacturer asserts they are the same lenses.

Two questions;

1) Has anyone contacted the manufacturer to complain?

2) Is anyone aware of an internet supplier who still has stocks of the old Focus Night and Day for sale?

Many thanks

FF
London, England

Bobby244 · #5 (**permalink**) 05-18-2009, 11:28 AM

I'm having the exact same experience. I was using the Focus brand for a couple years and it was like I wasn't even wearing lenses, I go to the eye doctor last week to get new lenses and am told it's no longer the Focus brand but that they're the same thing. They are not the same. These are actually the most uncomfortable lenses I've ever worn. My eyes are dry and itchy all day and I'm constantly putting in eye drops. I left them in to sleep last night (like I would do with my Focus lenses no problem) and I wake up this morning with discharge in my eye almost as if I had pink eye. I take out the contacts and my eyes were better so I don't have an eye infection, it's the contacts. And you can see they're not the same just by looking at them. The focus ones looked more clear, these ones look thicker and more blue.

If you guys find any other brands that are working for you and feel similar to the Focus brand please post it here. My eye doctor seems to really push the O2 optix brand so I might get a trial pair of those and see how they feel.

nakedeyes · #6 (**permalink**) 05-18-2009, 11:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fastfission

I'm so glad I came across this thread as my experience is exactly the same as described here.

Having used Focus Night and Day for many years I was informed that it was now called Air Optix Night and Day but was the same product. Last year I ordered 6 months worth and can confirm that these new lenses are garbage and not at all similar to the old Focus Night and Day. They dry my eyes within hours and cause a build up of mucous over the lens. Just horrible. I was wondering if it was me. Now I see others are having the same issues.

To confuse matters further it now appears these dubious Air Optix Night and Day lenses have been relabeled Air Optix Night and Day Aqua but again the manufacturer asserts they are the same lenses.

Two questions;

1) Has anyone contacted the manufacturer to complain?

2) Is anyone aware of an internet supplier who still has stocks of the old Focus Night and Day for sale?

Many thanks

FF
London, England

Sorry about the trouble you've been having, FF. I have some good news for you though. If you click on that red rectangle that says "lens.com" at the top of the page you can order your Focus Night and Day contacts there. In fact, if you don't want to click the red button, here's the direct link:

http://www.lens.com/contact-lenses/lens150.asp

I was not able to find Air Optix Night and Day on lens.com, though, nor did I find Air Optix Night and Day Aqua. The Focus Night and Day are there. I just hope your eye doctor will give you the prescription. If he or she has told you that Focus Night and Day is no longer available, it may be tough to get a prescription. Good luck and let us know how this turns out, okay?

Aditya · #7 (**permalink**) 05-18-2009, 02:05 PM

Purplelife et al.,

Like someone else said, as we seem to have very similar issues with the new AirOptix N&D lenses, it might be worthwhile starting a petition to bring this to the attention of CIBAVISION. I have already contacted the company and they were very responsive - so I think a petition would be of some value.
There has however been no indication to renew the Focus N&D line - which
is the primary solution.

For those who asked about other lenses - I have since running out of my Focus N&D supply last month, also tried Coopervision's Bioinfinity lens and Bausch and Lomb's Purevision lenses ( both are Silicon Hydrogel lenses with higher 02 permeability ) BUT had issues with both.

Hoping that CIBAVISION looks into this matter soon.

Regards,
Adi

aodmisery · #8 (**permalink**) 05-18-2009, 04:10 PM

i registered in this forum just so i can share my story. but as with everyone else here the new night and day contacts suck bigtime i wore focus day and night for years and never had a problem but as soon as these new ones came out 5 minutes in putting them in they started hurting. i thought it was just me but now that i found out its not just me i will be complaining to ciba vision along with sending them a link to this page. luckily someone posted a link to were you can still get focus night and day. i called lens.com and they said they still carry focus night and day so im gonna be stocking up.

purplelife · #9 (**permalink**) 05-18-2009, 06:01 PM

Hi all,

OP here. Thanks for sharing all your stories, it makes me feel a bit better to know I'm not the only one. I wrote to CIBA vision and also talked to someone on the phone. I asked if they'd been getting a lot of complaints and she said she didn't know of any. However, the switch to Air Optix just occurred in March so most people probably still have a supply of their old Focus N & D lenses left (and it seems like someone online companies are still carrying them as well).

I thought about trying to find some of the old ones and stocking up, but I fear doing that will just delay the inevitable. To give you all some hope, I've now been wearing the Air Optix Night & Day for about a month. Slowly but surely, my eyes seem to finally be adapting. I'm now having more good days than bad, although they still aren't quite as comfortable as the original Night & Day, which I never had to "adapt" to (they were perfect from Day 1 for me, that was 5 years ago - and this was after trying numerous other brands that were uncomfortable). I'm able to wear the Air Optix for the whole day now, whereas during the first couple of weeks I barely made it to dinnertime most days. I'm hoping that eventually my eyes will adapt fully and they will not be much different from the old. Hang in there everyone, but I still fully support a petition to bring back the original Focus Night & Day!

fastfission · #10 (**permalink**) 05-18-2009, 09:19 PM

Good to see the comments coming in. I am clearly not alone.

I am UK based and have found a couple of UK suppliers who have the old Focus range so am ordering a couple of years worth. No messing about with prescription checking over here (an anti-competitive practise to be sure).

Does anyone have the email address to complain to CibaVision? Their public claims that the Air Optix replacements are same must be refuted. The replacement is materially worse, as can be seen from the testimonials here, and they should give consumers a choice to stick with Focus or not...

Bobby244 · #11 (**permalink**) 05-19-2009, 05:32 PM

What are some trustworthy sites to stock up on Focus day & night lenses? I've read some sites have terrible customer service, and I want to make sure that if I buy what I think is the old Focus lenses that they're not going to sell me the new ones. Thanks

Aditya · #12 (**permalink**) 05-19-2009, 06:31 PM

Bobby

I've sent in a request to lens.com for a 2 year supply of the old Focus N&D
(which they claim to have in stock ) lens.com has a 30 day return policy - so in the end it wouldnt hurt too much if they end up sending you the wrong supplies.

aodmisery · #13 (**permalink**) 05-19-2009, 07:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aditya

Bobby

I've sent in a request to lens.com for a 2 year supply of the old Focus N&D
(which they claim to have in stock ) lens.com has a 30 day return policy - so in the end it wouldnt hurt too much if they end up sending you the wrong supplies.

i actually called and asked them the same thing and they told me if i order focus night and day thats what i will get. so i placed an order for a years worth. this was yesterday. today i checked my order and it it said i ordered focus night and day and right next to that in parentesis it said ( air optix night and day) so i called them and they said i might get some of the new ones if they dont have enough focus in the prescription i need. so now i gotta call tomorrow and make sure i get the right ones. i called kinda late and they were closed.

Bobby244 · #14 (**permalink**) 05-19-2009, 09:59 PM

Thanks for the replies guys, please post back with how it turns out with lens.com. I tried purchasing one set from visiondirect.com. I read some user reviews of the website and some people posted that they tried to buy the Focus day & night from them and if they were out of stock for their prescription they would send you an email and cancel the order (not send the new day and night brand), so I will see what happens and post back.

Bobby244 · #15 (**permalink**) 05-21-2009, 07:44 PM

I highly highly HIGHLY recommend clearlycontacts.ca

I phoned them yesterday morning at 9am, spoke to a customer service person and was assured they had the Focus night and day in stock for my prescription (she told me they had roughly 500 boxes for each eye in stock). They have a buy now pay later plan where you only need to pay 15 days after the item is shipped, and since I was sort of weary if I'd be getting the old Focus brand I thought I'd choose this option. 5 minutes after speaking with the customer service rep I got an email sent to me confirming the order. Yesterday night I recieve an email from them with a tracking number for fedex and that the package would be delivered today. Sure enough by 5pm today my contacts were delivered and they were the correct Focus Day & Night and the right prescription. I'm blown away at their customer service and speed of delivery. I've bought alot of things online but never ever had such a smooth experience. I can't recommend this company enough. I will be calling back tomorrow to order more!

flamenco · #16 (**permalink**) 06-12-2009, 11:56 AM

Hello fellow contact lens wearers,
I've been wear contacts for over 30 years and have tried many brands but the ones that were the best were the old Ciba Night and Day 30 day lenses. I was upset to find out they changed them to the Air Optix and I recently went to the eye doctor for my annual check up and was told they cannot get the old lenses. Didn't they hear the old adage: "if it ain't broke don't fix it". Idiots!!
I was given a trial pair and hated them.

Don't tell me they didn't change anything! I never had a problem with dryness or comfort for the last 3 years i've worn the N&D lenses. I take them out daily and clean (I use a Peroxide cleaning regime) them but have worn them on vacations for up to 2 weeks without removal and they were great.
The new trial pair started to itch after approx 6 hours of wear and finally I had to remove them and go to back to the N&D's. I tried them again the next day and the same outcome. I went back to the eye doc and I now have a trial pair of Oasys lenses in and they seem very comfortable.
I have 2 boxes of N&D which i'm going to keep in reserve until I can find a more acceptable solution to my contact dilemma.

Stylinbabe · #17 (**permalink**) 06-12-2009, 02:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bobby244

I highly highly HIGHLY recommend clearlycontacts.ca

I phoned them yesterday morning at 9am, spoke to a customer service person and was assured they had the Focus night and day in stock for my prescription (she told me they had roughly 500 boxes for each eye in stock). They have a buy now pay later plan where you only need to pay 15 days after the item is shipped, and since I was sort of weary if I'd be getting the old Focus brand I thought I'd choose this option. 5 minutes after speaking with the customer service rep I got an email sent to me confirming the order. Yesterday night I receive an email from them with a tracking number for FedEx and that the package would be delivered today. Sure enough by 5pm today my contacts were delivered and they were the correct Focus Day & Night and the right prescription. I'm blown away at their customer service and speed of delivery. I've bought a lot of things online but never ever had such a smooth experience. I can't recommend this company enough. I will be calling back tomorrow to order more!

Hi Bobby244. I'm glad you had such a good experience. I wonder how this company compares to lens.com, the sponsor of this site here? Have you ever tried them? The experience you shared above would be tough to beat.

jhoff80 · #18 (**permalink**) 07-02-2009, 12:54 PM

I've never had the old Focus Night & Day version, but I just started with the Air Optix ones and it sounds like I'm having a bunch of the issues that you are all having. I wore contact for 5 or 6 years when I was younger, with the Acuvue 2. After a break from contacts (I hated the inconvenience every morning) I decided to give the Night & Day a try.

The first month, with a sample from my doctor, went pretty well for about 3 weeks. I had slightly increased itchyness / dryness, and the fourth week I started having some issues, but I'd been wearing them the whole month. The issues that I was having that last week were a buildup of the white crap in the corners of my eyes, to the point where my eyes felt sticky and hard to open in the morning. I actually didn't quite finish the month, and took them out for the last 4 days of the month, during which my eyes recovered.

Because I had 3 good weeks with them though, I decided to buy a box for each eye and give them a try with taking them out for a day and cleaning them in the middle of the month. Yesterday was the first day of the new pair, and this morning I already needed to take them out for majorly increased itchyness and dryness, and again the sort of stickyness I mentioned earlier.

It's too bad it sounds like the Focus ones were better- I really love the idea of only having to put them in once (maybe even a few times) a month, and it's so great to be able to actually see late at night lying in bed and first thing in the morning. Unfortunately I don't think that these are going to be the ones for me. I just wish I didn't have a 5 month supply left unused.

What about the Acuvue Oasys? Has anyone tried that one in comparison? I guess for overnight wear they want you to take it out every week, and replace it every two weeks, which is less convenient, but if it's wearable...

flamenco · #19 (**permalink**) 07-09-2009, 09:25 AM

I wanted to post an update to my problems with Focus N&D air optix. I contacted Ciba in Atlanta Ga via Email and ended up having a conference call with my Eye Doc and the Ciba Medical rep and guess what? They are planning to go back to the old N&D lenses due to customer complaints over itchiness and dryness. They told me it will take approx 3-6 months before they will have the old N&D's back out on the marketplace!! Lets keep our fingers crossed that they will follow through with these changes.

In the meantime I have ordered a 6 month supply of the Acuvue Oaysis lenses as I had a demo pair for 2 weeks and they were very comfortable. I typically take my lenses out each night, even the N&D's, but I left the Oaysis in for 2 days on a recent trip and had no problems.

I am still planning on staying with the N&D's when and if they get them fixed as they can be worn up to 30 days continuous which is a great option.

WingsLikeEagles · #20 (**permalink**) 08-04-2009, 04:12 PM

I too, have had these issues with Ciba Vision's new version of the contacts. They are most definately not the same and almost ruined my wedding day no less. For some reason I was smart enough to bring the last one of the old lens I had as my spare and was able to wear it to the wedding (which was out of town). I thought sure when I got back I would find another lens that worked. No dice. I tried PureVision, Oasys, Proclear Compatibles, Acuvue Advance, SoftLens 38 and Avaira. Avair was pretty good, just a bit heavy if folks need something different to try.

That being said, after I found this forum I thought to myself, lets see what companies have out there. Len.com could not guarantee they would send me the old version (it was a throw of the dice) even when I said others had had good luck with them. A place called CoastalContacts.com did, and had my lenses. So I got a 2 year supply. Which will last me a year and a half since I replace every 3 weeks. Hopefully by then, Ciba will have fixed the problem. I am now going to send them a detailed complaint.

If you need a place to try, that gives another option.

dcerjohn · #21 (**permalink**) 08-25-2009, 08:34 PM

I have used Focus Night and Day since they were put on the market and they have been fabulous, up until the new version "Air Optix" replaced the original version. Now, wearing Focus Night and Days has become a nightmare! The first night of wearing the Air Optix, my left eye began to produce a mucus like substance continually, but especially while I slept and continued to produce this substance until I stopped wearing them; and on top of that, my left eye developed a "callous" for lack of a better word. And, the contacts were irritating to both eyes. Finally, my right eye (not the left where the mucus was a problem) literally rejected the lens (i.e., very red, irritated) - "pink eye" like symptoms, but not. I went back to my eye doctor and she indicated that I probably was experiencing an allergy of some sort and I told her that I have never had any allergies and that my eyes were not "itchy" or dry as experienced by most individuals who have allergy symptoms. In any event, my eye doctor recommended another brand of lenses (don't recall the name, but they did not work out either). Like others who have posted, I found an old pair of the "original" Focus Night and Day lenses and put them in my eyes and all is now well (back to normal). Obviously the new "improved" version is not so improved.

anu · #22 (**permalink**) 08-26-2009, 02:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fastfission

Good to see the comments coming in. I am clearly not alone.

I am UK based and have found a couple of UK suppliers who have the old Focus range so am ordering a couple of years worth. No messing about with prescription checking over here (an anti-competitive practise to be sure).

Does anyone have the email address to complain to CibaVision? Their public claims that the Air Optix replacements are same must be refuted. The replacement is materially worse, as can be seen from the testimonials here, and they should give consumers a choice to stick with Focus or not...

AirOptix Night and Day Aqua lenses manufactured by Ciba Vision have replaced Focus Night and Day lenses.
hi to all,
New Features:
Comfort on contact. All day, every day, even overnight.
New AQUA Moisture System for greater comfort insertion*.
Visibility tint and "OK" inversion indicator
These revolutionary lenses allow six times more oxygen to reach your eyes than ordinary contact lenses.
New Slender Packaging and Each box contains six lenses.
Night & Day prescription is valid on this new lens

Boobesh · #23 (**permalink**) 08-26-2009, 03:10 AM

My vote goes to Air optics day & night

fleming · #24 (**permalink**) 08-28-2009, 09:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by purplelife

Hi all,

I'm new here. Wanted to share my story to see if any others are having the same issues.

I first started wearing contacts about 7 years ago. For the first two years, I tried every brand and solution combo possible but nothing was comfortable - after 6-8 hours my eyes were done (dryness, feeling them, etc.). Finally my eye doc suggested Focus Night & Day and the difference was truly night and day! They were PERFECT and comfortable from day 1, and I've been wearing them all day every day without any problems for the past 5 years. I can't even feel them at all in eye, it's like wearing nothing and truly a miracle after all my struggles.

A few weeks ago I visited my eye doctor to get an updated prescription because I was running low on lenses, and he informs me that Focus Night & Day have been discontinued and replaced with Air Optix Night & Day. I panic, and he reassures me that they are made from the same material and I shouldn't notice any difference.

Well... to put it plainly, the Air Optix Night & Day are NOT the same as the original. My eyes are drier, and by dinnertime literally screaming at me to take the lenses out. I've now worn the Air Optix Night & Day for almost 2 weeks, and the problems have continued. On a few days I got so sick of it I switched back to the old lenses (I still have 1 pair left...) and the improvement in comfort was IMMEDIATE.

So... I'm pretty much devastated. I've got an active lifestyle and have taken for granted wearing contacts for the last 5 years. Anyone else having a similar issue? Can anyone suggest a lens that might work for me? If others are having similar problems let's start a petition to Ciba Vision to bring back the original Focus Night & Day. If a product ain't broke they shouldn't be fixing it!!!

The reason I say Danger is that Focus Night Day contact lenses feel so good that you should be carefull how long you wear them. I have kept them in for several months with taking them out maybe once a month. As you know this is highly discouraged by the eye doc. Just make sure you take them out now and then. The price here at Lens.com is pretty darn good too.

dandapg · #25 (**permalink**) 09-09-2009, 09:13 PM

I joined this forum just so I could post about this. I absolutely HATE the Air Optix lenses! They are NOT like the old Night & Day and I can't understand why they would have changed them. I wore Night & Day for at least 5 years and never had one single problem with them. In fact they are so comfortable I would sometimes wear them much longer than I should have. But these new Air Optix lenses are just horrible. I can feel them in my eyes almost all the time. They are hard to sleep in because when I wake up my eyes are so dry that if I blink the contacts can pop out! I've already wasted a pair because one popped out of my eye and I couldn't find it. I've also been getting more headaches lately and I have to keep eye drops with me at all times now. I never needed eye drops with the old ones because they never dried out! I just hope that what Flamenco said is true and Ciba is planning to go back to the old Night & Day. They were one of the best products I've ever used and I miss them so much!

timetraveler · #26 (**permalink**) 09-10-2009, 09:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by purplelife

Well... to put it plainly, the Air Optix Night & Day are NOT the same as the original. My eyes are drier, and by dinnertime literally screaming at me to take the lenses out.

Your eyes were literally screaming?

That must have been very disturbing for your family. What did it sound like? Did your eyes scream or speak or sing at any other time?

Bonus Oculus · #27 (**permalink**) 12-05-2009, 12:05 PM

I posted a call to action in this forum about efforts to get Focus Night & Day back on the market.

Juniorgerbil · #28 (**permalink**) 12-07-2009, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bonus Oculus

I posted a call to action in this forum about efforts to get Focus Night & Day back on the market.

Welcome Bonus Oculus. I like that name. It sounds very Latin and important.

So tell me about this "call to action." Was it in this thread? I have to admit once I saw how long it was I just skimmed it. It's not a petition is it? I've been told that on-lime petitions are useless because t there are no real, live pen-and-ink signatures on it. An electronic petition would be too easy to fake. Watch.

"The undersigned are hereby petitioning to change Thanksgiving from the fourth Thursday in November to every Thursday in November and hereby invoke the Bonus Oculus Clause of the Constitution:

John Smith
Jane Smith
Robert Smith
Sally Smith
Jane Jones
Jim Jones
Thomas Anderson
Catherine Johnson
Dwayne Johnson
Arte Johnson
Lyndon B Johnson
Daffy Duck
Bugs Bunny
Porky Pig
Pepe LePew
John Ross Ewing
Sue Ellen Ewing
Luke Duke
Beauregard Duke
Daisy Duke
Jesse Duke
Boss Hogg
Ima Hogg
Julia Roberts
Clark Kent
Bruce Wayne
John Wayne
Bradford Pitt
Angelina Jolie-Pitt
Carrie Underwood

See? Fifty "signatures" in about five minutes.

Bonus Oculus · #29 (**permalink**) 12-07-2009, 02:34 PM

All I'm urging is people use a little elbow grease, pick up the phone, and make your voices heard. If CIBA VISION is a smart company, and I have every reason to believe it is because I love the Focus Night & Day, it will heed the opinions of consumers, and make available a product that brings them profit.

Bonus Oculus · #30 (**permalink**) 12-07-2009, 02:38 PM

Here's a copy of my call to action:

I am a loyal user of Focus Night & Day. I had not paid any attention to contact lenses in the last several years because I was happy with Focus N&D.

However, recently, I went to my eye doctor, and found that CIBA VISION has discontinued Focus N&D, and instead is offering an upgrade with the new product of Air Optix Night & Day. Eagerly, I tried on this new product, thinking that it is new and improved. I didn't even bother to pack a spare or bring eye drops or anything as I was wearing the new contacts because I never needed such assistance with the old Focus Night & Day. However, after several days, I felt like there was a lint in my contacts. I could not keep my eyes open without pain. I had to ask my wife to drive.

Later, I tried washing it, etc... Nothing worked. The new contacts was like New Coke. I was very dissatisfied. I went to my eye doctor's office for a follow-up, and have since tried other contacts, but nothing felt as good as the old Focus N&D.

I called CIBA VISION up, and they said they would take my complaint down.

I bet if a lot of us called their office, like Coke, they might consider bring the old product line back, and keep us as loyal customers. I know I will NOT buy the Air Optix Night & Day. I would rather get laser surgery than wear contacts that feels like it is contacting my eyeballs.

The main number for CIBA VISION is 1-800-875-3001. That goes to the Consumer Relations office, and is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The Global Headquarters office for CIBA VISION in Duluth, Georgia, USA, is at 1-678-415-3937.

I registered my complaint and put in my request to bring back the old faithful Focus Night & Day. I urge you to do the same. People in the past were able to back old Coke. We can bring back our beloved contacts now!

Bonus Oculus · #31 (**permalink**) 12-13-2009, 04:56 PM

Apparently, I'm getting information that the reason the new Air Optix Night & Day are less comfortable than the Focus Night & Day is because CIBA VISION placed markings on the new contacts so wearers can tell if the lens is turned inside out or right side out.

Bondjamesbond · #32 (**permalink**) 12-14-2009, 09:24 AM

I agree with Juniorgerbil that on-line petitions are pretty much useless. It would be much more effective to do as Bonus Oculus suggested and call the company to talk to a real live Customer Relations representative.

Simosa · #33 (**permalink**) 12-14-2009, 05:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fastfission

Good to see the comments coming in. I am clearly not alone.

I am UK based and have found a couple of UK suppliers who have the old Focus range so am ordering a couple of years worth. No messing about with prescription checking over here (an anti-competitive practise to be sure).

Does anyone have the email address to complain to CibaVision? Their public claims that the Air Optix replacements are same must be refuted. The replacement is materially worse, as can be seen from the testimonials here, and they should give consumers a choice to stick with Focus or not...

Hey can you tell me the name of the UK supplier? Thanks a lot.

AmigaBonita · #34 (**permalink**) 12-15-2009, 10:42 AM

If you don't want to call CIBA Vision, here's the Web address that has a contact form: http://www.us.cibavision.com/contact_us.shtml

Remember. If you want your voice to be heard, don't rant and rave and swear. State your case simply and politely, and they will be much more willing to help you.

AmigaBonita · #35 (**permalink**) 12-15-2009, 10:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bonus Oculus

Apparently, I'm getting information that the reason the new Air Optix Night & Day are less comfortable than the Focus Night & Day is because CIBA VISION placed markings on the new contacts so wearers can tell if the lens is turned inside out or right side out.

That marking you're talking about is called an "inversion mark." They're usually very tiny. Is that the reason so many people find these contacts uncomfortable?

Does anyone have a picture of an inversion mark for Focus Night and Day contacts? I can't find one on line.

coyotejones3 · #36 (**permalink**) 12-16-2009, 02:51 PM

I have emailed CibaVision and they are claiming no fault and no clue.
So today I replied back with the following. I don't know but I am thinking it is hopeless.
This was the original email through their customer service sight:
Please tell it is your decission to continue the old version of Focus night & Day contact lens. I am one of the many who wore them with no problems. After receiving the new replacement (Air Optix Night & Day) I have had nothing but problems. I went through 6 boxes since May 2009. That is only seven months. I had discharge, itchy and irrated eyelids. My doctor didn't know what was happening and almost did duct surgery. I ran across a forum of people with simular problems. I was able to find the old Focus D&N online. Ordered them, wore them and all problems are gone. So please continue the old version.
Also I would not mind being compensated for the six boxes that I have to endure, thinking it was a problem of mine and not one by manufacturing.

This was their reply:
Dear Ms. Jones:
Thank you for taking the time to contact CIBA Vision Corporation regarding our AirOptix® Night & Day® Aqua contact lenses.

CIBA Vision has replaced the NIGHT & DAY® lens with our new AIR OPTIX® NIGHT & DAY® AQUA lens. The lens is made of lotrafilcon A, the same unique material as the Night & Day® lens. The lens now has an “OK” inversion indicator, a light blue handling tint, and is packaged in a slender 6 lens multi-pack. In addition, the lens features our AQUA Moisture System, which includes a unique moisture agent that helps lubricate the lens for initial comfort, a patented lens material that helps maintain moisture by minimizing the rate of lens dehydration for comfort all day, and an ultra-smooth surface with superior wettability and excellent deposit resistance for comfort every day.

CIBA Vision Corporation designs contact lenses to provide for vision correction, comfort, ease of handling and proper oxygen passage to the eyes. We manufacture our contact lenses under very strict quality control standards. The lenses are inspected during various stages of manufacturing to assure that each lens meets our high quality standards. It is unfortunate that with these efforts, you still experienced difficulties. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience you may have experienced.

All CIBA Vision lenses are guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship. Contact lenses are classified as medical devices and are only available through licensed eye care professionals and authorized distributors. For this reason, we cannot send replacement lenses directly to you; however we would be happy to discuss your concerns with your eye care provider and offer replacement lenses with the doctor’s approval. We would recommend that you not wear lenses if you are having issues and that you contact you eye care provider regarding your experience. Please have your eye care provider contact me at the telephone number listed below if assistance with replacement lenses is needed.

In addition, to complete our documentation, we would appreciate you responding with lens information including lot number, expiration date, power, diameter, and base curve of the lenses in question. We will also send a mailing label for your convenience in returning the lenses in question for evaluation. CIBA Vision uses this information as valuable input toward our effort for quality improvements in order to maintain customer satisfaction.

Thank you again for contacting CIBA Vision.

Sincerely,
Monica
CIBA Vision
Patient Relations
1-800-227-1524, ext 3095
coyotejones3@yahoo.com
12/10/2009 06:27 PM
To: tccr.atlanta@cibavision.com
cc:
Subject: us.cibavision.com contact us

This is my reply:
Obviously you have missed the whole point in this communication. The point being: PLEASE DO NOT DISCONTINUE THE PRODUCTION OF THE ORIGINAL FOCUS DAY AND NIGHTS. I used the 6 boxes of lenses while having problems and thinking it was everything but the lens. I threw away the boxes as I emptied them. At the time I did not realize they were the problem. I do know they have an OK on them and they are also tinted blue. I liked these options but could not wear them. I communicated with my physician who was about to do surgery on my eye duct because he thought my eye was draining to fast to keep the contact wet was the problem. Fortunately I found an contact lens forum where people were discussing the change to the new optic air lens prior to surgery. They too were having the same symptoms as I. Many had change back to the Focus Day and Night and the symptoms ceased. I found the old focus online (which is what my physician prescribed) When received, I started to wear them and my symptoms stopped. Good thing I did not have the surgery that would not have resolved my problems. In the forum, http://www.lens101.com/focus-night-day/64173-air-optix-night-day-vs-old-focus-night-day.html one your customers stated they have had communications with you and you were considering keeping the old. My quest here is to ask you to PLEASE DO NOT DISCONTINUE THE PRODUCTION OF THE ORIGINAL FOCUS DAY AND NIGHTS. I am a long time customer and hope to continue. Sincerely, Jacquie Jones

LittleElvis · #37 (**permalink**) 12-16-2009, 03:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coyotejones3

I have emailed CibaVision and they are claiming no fault and no clue.
So today I replied back with the following. I don't know but I am thinking it is hopeless.
This was the original email through their customer service sight:
Please tell it is your decission to continue the old version of Focus night & Day contact lens. I am one of the many who wore them with no problems. After receiving the new replacement (Air Optix Night & Day) I have had nothing but problems. I went through 6 boxes since May 2009. That is only seven months. I had discharge, itchy and irrated eyelids. My doctor didn't know what was happening and almost did duct surgery. I ran across a forum of people with simular problems. I was able to find the old Focus D&N online. Ordered them, wore them and all problems are gone. So please continue the old version.
Also I would not mind being compensated for the six boxes that I have to endure, thinking it was a problem of mine and not one by manufacturing.

This was their reply:
Dear Ms. Jones:
Thank you for taking the time to contact CIBA Vision Corporation regarding our AirOptix® Night & Day® Aqua contact lenses.

CIBA Vision has replaced the NIGHT & DAY® lens with our new AIR OPTIX® NIGHT & DAY® AQUA lens. The lens is made of lotrafilcon A, the same unique material as the Night & Day® lens. The lens now has an “OK” inversion indicator, a light blue handling tint, and is packaged in a slender 6 lens multi-pack. In addition, the lens features our AQUA Moisture System, which includes a unique moisture agent that helps lubricate the lens for initial comfort, a patented lens material that helps maintain moisture by minimizing the rate of lens dehydration for comfort all day, and an ultra-smooth surface with superior wettability and excellent deposit resistance for comfort every day.

CIBA Vision Corporation designs contact lenses to provide for vision correction, comfort, ease of handling and proper oxygen passage to the eyes. We manufacture our contact lenses under very strict quality control standards. The lenses are inspected during various stages of manufacturing to assure that each lens meets our high quality standards. It is unfortunate that with these efforts, you still experienced difficulties. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience you may have experienced.

All CIBA Vision lenses are guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship. Contact lenses are classified as medical devices and are only available through licensed eye care professionals and authorized distributors. For this reason, we cannot send replacement lenses directly to you; however we would be happy to discuss your concerns with your eye care provider and offer replacement lenses with the doctor’s approval. We would recommend that you not wear lenses if you are having issues and that you contact you eye care provider regarding your experience. Please have your eye care provider contact me at the telephone number listed below if assistance with replacement lenses is needed.

In addition, to complete our documentation, we would appreciate you responding with lens information including lot number, expiration date, power, diameter, and base curve of the lenses in question. We will also send a mailing label for your convenience in returning the lenses in question for evaluation. CIBA Vision uses this information as valuable input toward our effort for quality improvements in order to maintain customer satisfaction.

Thank you again for contacting CIBA Vision.

Sincerely,
Monica
CIBA Vision
Patient Relations
1-800-227-1524, ext 3095
coyotejones3@yahoo.com
12/10/2009 06:27 PM
To: tccr.atlanta@cibavision.com
cc:
Subject: us.cibavision.com contact us

This is my reply:
Obviously you have missed the whole point in this communication. The point being: PLEASE DO NOT DISCONTINUE THE PRODUCTION OF THE ORIGINAL FOCUS DAY AND NIGHTS. I used the 6 boxes of lenses while having problems and thinking it was everything but the lens. I threw away the boxes as I emptied them. At the time I did not realize they were the problem. I do know they have an OK on them and they are also tinted blue. I liked these options but could not wear them. I communicated with my physician who was about to do surgery on my eye duct because he thought my eye was draining to fast to keep the contact wet was the problem. Fortunately I found an contact lens forum where people were discussing the change to the new optic air lens prior to surgery. They too were having the same symptoms as I. Many had change back to the Focus Day and Night and the symptoms ceased. I found the old focus online (which is what my physician prescribed) When received, I started to wear them and my symptoms stopped. Good thing I did not have the surgery that would not have resolved my problems. In the forum, http://www.lens101.com/focus-night-day/64173-air-optix-night-day-vs-old-focus-night-day.html one your customers stated they have had communications with you and you were considering keeping the old. My quest here is to ask you to PLEASE DO NOT DISCONTINUE THE PRODUCTION OF THE ORIGINAL FOCUS DAY AND NIGHTS. I am a long time customer and hope to continue. Sincerely, Jacquie Jones

Hello, coyotejones3.

I'm sorry to read about the problems you've been experiencing. It sounds to me like your approach was reasonable and rational. You did just what AmigaBonita recommended. I hope you are able to resolve this issue fairly quickly. I wonder if they will bring back the Focus Night and Day contact lenses?

dynaxfl · #38 (**permalink**) 12-19-2009, 01:03 PM

I'm so glad to find out i was not the only one has the problem with Air Optix N&D. I first got a trial pair in April and immediately I felt was not as comfortable as Focus N&D. I had to take out the lens after only a few hours. I then ordered a six month supply of Focus and now its running out. The good news is that Clearlycontact.ca still have Focus N&D in stock. I just ordered one year supply from them. If any of you are looking for the place to order Focus N&D, this might be a choice for you although I think they are more expensive than other places. Oh well, Canadians are always more expensive! Hopefully by next yr of this time, CIBA VISION will fix the problem!

LittleElvis · #39 (**permalink**) 12-21-2009, 01:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dynaxfl

I'm so glad to find out i was not the only one has the problem with Air Optix N&D. I first got a trial pair in April and immediately I felt was not as comfortable as Focus N&D. I had to take out the lens after only a few hours. I then ordered a six month supply of Focus and now its running out. The good news is that Clearlycontact.ca still have Focus N&D in stock. I just ordered one year supply from them. If any of you are looking for the place to order Focus N&D, this might be a choice for you although I think they are more expensive than other places. Oh well, Canadians are always more expensive! Hopefully by next yr of this time, CIBA VISION will fix the problem!

I'm hoping that CIBA Vision and the other contact lens manufacturers are watching this website. I would think it would be a gold mine of market research.

sbam · #40 (**permalink**) 12-28-2009, 09:16 PM

I received a trial of Air Optix Day & Night from my eye doctor last week for the same reason others did: the old Focus Day & Nights were discontinued. I took them out Friday after a road trip and was perplexed this morning when I put them back in as to whether the "OK" needed to be readable from the inside or the outside. After reading through this forum, I see that some of the issues I attributed to a long drive and other factors may actually be the result of the lens.

They don't feel uncomfortable really, but I have been getting a lot of mucus in my eyes that I never had before. The lenses get fogged up from it, so I have to take them out. When I first started using Focus Day & Night a few years ago, I did have really dry eyes for the first month or so and had to use drops regularly. Once my eyes adjusted, I never had a problem. I was thinking my eyes might need to readjust to these and was going to give them some time.

They tout the "OK" inversion indicator in their basic product description, but it was beyond frustrating to figure out which way it needs to be visible. I finally found the document below that says it needs to be readable from the outside (PDF page 16):
http://procare.cibavision.com/pdf/N&D%20PFG.pdf

My doctor did ask me a question during the exam…she said that some people have had trouble since they started engraving the lens and asked if that had been an issue for me. I said no since I do recall the old lenses being engraved with CIBA, but I’m wondering if the “OK” on the new version might be more what she was talking about since it’s a lot bigger. I’m going to make sure I have them in the right way now to see if that lessens my issues.

I unfortunately have a bunch of Flex account money I have to spend by the end of the year (my employer doesn't allow it to be used into the next year like most), so I am probably going to have to order them anyway.

coyotejones3 · #41 (**permalink**) 12-29-2009, 12:01 AM

sbam, I would ordering the "old" day & night if I were you. You can still find them on the net. I found mine at coastal contacts. The optic air were "kind of" find for the first day or so with some mucus but then it increased the longer I wore them. I went through 6 boxes (3 boxes per eye) since May 2009 until Nov 2009. My eyelids became so irritated they itched uncontrollably. I didn't realize it was the contacts. I blamed the pollen, the wind, the dust tired eyes and even the cleaning solution I was using and had used for years. After receiving the new "old Day and Night" contacts I put them in and after a couple of days of my eyelids healing, I have had no problems at all with them. I am on my third week with the same lens and only take them out occasionally to clean. The reason I realized what was really happening was because I was searching online for what side the OK was suppose to be and I ran accross this forum. What an eye opener (no pun intended). I think it is the "unique moisture agent that helps lubricate the lens for intial comfort" that is causing the adverse reaction to these lens. Ciba Vision states nothing has changed but admits there is a new "unique moisture agent". Ciba Vision has invited me to send them back so that they can analysis the lens in question but tell me how many of you retain the lens and boxes when you put new ones in?

KSCbase · #42 (**permalink**) 12-29-2009, 09:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coyotejones3

Ciba Vision has invited me to send them back so that they can [analyze] the lens in question but tell me how many of you retain the lens and boxes when you put new ones in?

Wow. A thread that's over 40 posts long. That's something you don't see every day.

This thread brings up a helpful tip. If you have a problem with a pair of contact lenses, don't throw them away because the eye doctor or--in this case, the manufacturer--may want to analyze them.

coyotejones3 · #43 (**permalink**) 12-29-2009, 05:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KSCbase

Wow. A thread that's over 40 posts long. That's something you don't see every day.

This thread brings up a helpful tip. If you have a problem with a pair of contact lenses, don't throw them away because the eye doctor or--in this case, the manufacturer--may want to analyze them.

That is good advice if you realize in time the cause of your problems is the contact.

timetraveler · #44 (**permalink**) 01-04-2010, 11:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bonus Oculus

I called CIBA VISION up, and they said they would take my complaint down.

I bet if a lot of us called their office, like Coke, they might consider bring the old product line back, and keep us as loyal customers. I know I will NOT buy the Air Optix Night & Day. I would rather get laser surgery than wear contacts that feels like it is contacting my eyeballs.

The main number for CIBA VISION is 1-800-875-3001. That goes to the Consumer Relations office, and is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The Global Headquarters office for CIBA VISION in Duluth, Georgia, USA, is at 1-678-415-3937.

I registered my complaint and put in my request to bring back the old faithful Focus Night & Day. I urge you to do the same. People in the past were able to back old Coke. We can bring back our beloved contacts now!

Who here has called CIBA Vision about Focus Night & Day? What was the result?

Bonus Oculus · #45 (**permalink**) 01-08-2010, 09:04 AM

I'm about had it with contacts. What advices do you have for eye surgery to correct near-sightedness?

KSCbase · #46 (**permalink**) 01-19-2010, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bonus Oculus

I'm about had it with contacts. What advices do you have for eye surgery to correct near-sightedness?

There is a section here in Lens 101 for eye surgery: http://www.lens101.com/eye-surgery.html Check out that section and see what they have to offer. If your particular questions were not addressed, go ahead and post your questions there.

I can tell you this. Laser surgery is a good option if your eyes are healthy. Lots of people have gotten their vision corrected safely and effectively with this type of surgery. Check this out: "LASIK is the most recent advance in laser vision correction. LASIK is an acronym for Laser Assisted In-situ Keratomileusis. Compared to the original laser PRK, the surface of the cornea remains largely intact so that LASIK patients are more comfortable and see better more quickly.

LASIK has been performed internationally for approximately 10 years. It was first performed in U.S. clinical trials in 1991. It is important to note that the major components of the procedure have a long history. Ophthalmologists have been reshaping the cornea for over 50 years, creating a protective layer of tissue for over 35 years, and using the excimer laser since the 1980s.

In 1996, the FDA acted on the data submitted and approved the laser for treatment of low myopia up to -6.00 diopters. In 1997, the FDA approved the laser for treatment of astigmatism up to -4.00 diopters." -- http://www.lasersurgeryforeyes.com/history.html

Cyan · #47 (**permalink**) 01-19-2010, 11:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bonus Oculus

I'm about had it with contacts. What advices do you have for eye surgery to correct near-sightedness?

I had LASIK in my left eye to correct severe astigmatism. Just to let you know, I'm back to wearing contacts in both my left and right eye. LASIK is not a cure-all all the time.

That being said, I'd like to share my Focus/Air Optix N&D story.

I started wearing N&D's in September. I wanted to love them but just couldn't. Unfortunately, they got foggy, and that is something that bothers me a great deal and is also the reason RGP's never worked for me. I also noticed N&D's felt like they had a piece of grit on them, something I never felt with other contacts, but something that seemed to diminish with N&D wear.

I told the store where I bought my lenses what was happening and they said that's been been a common complaint since the switch to Air Optix, the fogging up. They ordered me, no charge, 6 trial lenses for each eye. When they arrived I noticed the left lens was the same lot # as the ones I had problems with. I called CIBA and they offered to send another box to the store where I bought my lenses. They also sent me a postage-paid return envelope so I could return the problem lenses to them. When I finally got my lenses from CIBA the left was again the same lot # and had the same fogging-up issues. The right, although a different lot #, also fogged up.

I decided I was done with N&D's. I had another eye exam and this practitioner put me in a toric in one eye, a change from my previous prescription. I tried an Air Optix toric while at the office but it fogged up immediately. So, we tried Purevision. Guess what? No fogging up and no gritty feeling.

Needless to say, I'm no longer a CIBA customer and have switched to Purevision. Maybe some of you want to also try Purevision now that N&D is different. I also considered Oasys, but there are a number of people who are having allergic-like symptoms with those lenses (google for info). So, for me, Purevision it is!

LP39A · #48 (**permalink**) 01-19-2010, 02:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cyan

I had LASIK in my left eye to correct severe astigmatism. Just to let you know, I'm back to wearing contacts in both my left and right eye. LASIK is not a cure-all all the time.

That being said, I'd like to share my Focus/Air Optix N&D story.

I started wearing N&D's in September. I wanted to love them but just couldn't. Unfortunately, they got foggy, and that is something that bothers me a great deal and is also the reason RGP's never worked for me. I also noticed N&D's felt like they had a piece of grit on them, something I never felt with other contacts, but something that seemed to diminish with N&D wear.

I told the store where I bought my lenses what was happening and they said that's been been a common complaint since the switch to Air Optix, the fogging up. They ordered me, no charge, 6 trial lenses for each eye. When they arrived I noticed the left lens was the same lot # as the ones I had problems with. I called CIBA and they offered to send another box to the store where I bought my lenses. They also sent me a postage-paid return envelope so I could return the problem lenses to them. When I finally got my lenses from CIBA the left was again the same lot # and had the same fogging-up issues. The right, although a different lot #, also fogged up.

I decided I was done with N&D's. I had another eye exam and this practitioner put me in a toric in one eye, a change from my previous prescription. I tried an Air Optix toric while at the office but it fogged up immediately. So, we tried Purevision. Guess what? No fogging up and no gritty feeling.

Needless to say, I'm no longer a CIBA customer and have switched to Purevision. Maybe some of you want to also try Purevision now that N&D is different. I also considered Oasys, but there are a number of people who are having allergic-like symptoms with those lenses (google for info). So, for me, Purevision it is!

Thank you for sharing your experience, Cyan. I hope you finally have found comfortable and effective vision correction with Purevision.

There's a section here in Lens 101 about PureVision contacts. Perhaps you will find it useful or even make yourself useful.

AmigaBonita · #49 (**permalink**) 01-21-2010, 10:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AmigaBonita

That marking you're talking about is called an "inversion mark." They're usually very tiny. Is that the reason so many people find these contacts uncomfortable?

Does anyone have a picture of an inversion mark for Focus Night and Day contacts? I can't find one on line.

No inversion mark pictures yet?

josh · #50 (**permalink**) 02-08-2010, 10:20 AM

just went back to eye doc over discomfort from new air optics.... here is what i found out. Eye Dr said he has heard of this problem and believes it is being caused by inverted "ok" marker on contact..... gave me sample pair of Bosch & laumb 30 day continuios wear BIG DIFFERENCE. the old focus night & day did not have this marker.

Railfan · #51 (**permalink**) 02-08-2010, 11:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by josh

just went back to eye doc over discomfort from new air optics.... here is what i found out. Eye Dr said he has heard of this problem and believes it is being caused by inverted "ok" marker on contact..... gave me sample pair of Bosch & laumb 30 day continuios wear BIG DIFFERENCE. the old focus night & day did not have this marker.

Hi Josh. Welcome to Lens 101. It's always nice to get new members. I'm glad your story has a happy ending. Who knew that such a tiny little inversion marks could cause discomfort?

reditchy · #52 (**permalink**) 03-07-2010, 01:59 PM

I have exactly the same problem, I can't tolerate the new Air Optix Night & Day lenses. So I found some of the old Focus Night & Day online. These are old Focus Night & Day with expiry in 2014. I tried them on and they feel very similar to the new Air Optix Night & Day. In other words, they cause my eyes to get very red and itchy. The previous Focus Night & Day contacts that I had were expiry 2012 and felt perfect. I wonder if Ciba made a change to the coating or something IN SECRET to see if anyone would notice. Then maybe later, thinking everything was fine, changed the name along with dying it blue and adding the OK mark. Obviously, what is bothering me is whatever change they made to the original Focus Night & Day right before changing the name. The horrible part about this is that I don't have any wearable contacts, I thought that getting some of the old Focus Night & Day would temporarily solve the problem, but no luck. Has anyone else had this problem? I will probably try the Purevision, based on the review here and also because my wife uses them without issue. I would really like to get the original Focus Night & Day back, and have contacted Ciba, but we'll have to see if they do the right thing.

Goliath2001 · #53 (**permalink**) 03-08-2010, 08:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by reditchy

I have exactly the same problem, I can't tolerate the new Air Optix Night & Day lenses. So I found some of the old Focus Night & Day online. These are old Focus Night & Day with expiry in 2014. I tried them on and they feel very similar to the new Air Optix Night & Day. In other words, they cause my eyes to get very red and itchy. The previous Focus Night & Day contacts that I had were expiry 2012 and felt perfect. I wonder if Ciba made a change to the coating or something IN SECRET to see if anyone would notice. Then maybe later, thinking everything was fine, changed the name along with dying it blue and adding the OK mark. Obviously, what is bothering me is whatever change they made to the original Focus Night & Day right before changing the name. The horrible part about this is that I don't have any wearable contacts, I thought that getting some of the old Focus Night & Day would temporarily solve the problem, but no luck. Has anyone else had this problem? I will probably try the Purevision, based on the review here and also because my wife uses them without issue. I would really like to get the original Focus Night & Day back, and have contacted Ciba, but we'll have to see if they do the right thing.

Sorry to hear about your issues reditchy. I went to lens.com and looked up Focus Night & Day and here's what the site said:
"Ciba Vision has changed the brand name of Focus Night & Day to Air Optix Night & Day Aqua. During the transition period all orders will be shipped as either Focus Night & Day or Air Optix Night & Day Aqua."

It doesn't sound like the old switcheroo is fooling anybody, though.

I hope you're able to find some relief with the Purevision lenses. Let us know how it goes, okay? I wish you well.