Abstract: Embodiments of the technology relate to a contact lens having a core that is coated by a hydrogel layer, and to methods of making such a lens. The coated lens can include a rigid gas permeable contact lens. The coated lens can also include a hybrid silicone and rigid gas permeable contact lens. In one aspect, embodiments provide for a coated contact lens comprising a lens core with a water equilibrium constant of less than about 2% comprising an outer surface; and a hydrogel layer covalently attached to at least a portion of the outer surface, the hydrogel layer adapted to contact an ophthalmic surface, wherein the hydrogel layer comprises a hydrophilic polymer population of one or more species.

Abstract: This present invention discloses kits, solutions, and methods for regenerating a hydrogel coating on a hydrogel coated medical device. The solution comprises a first hydrophilic polymer and a second hydrophilic polymer. The reaction of the first and second hydrophilic polymers with the originally coated surface of the medical device forms an at least partially covalently crosslinked hydrogel layer. The solution may be part of a kit, wherein the first and second hydrophilic polymers are provided separately with or without the medical device included in the kit. The originally coated surface of the medical device has an initial thickness before use or wear and a second thickness before use or wear, the second thickness being less than the first thickness. Treatment of the hydrogel coated medical device with the solutions described herein increased the second thickness to approach a final thickness that is substantially equal to the initial thickness.

Abstract: Medical devices with a hydrogel layer covalently attached to a portion of the outer surface of the medical device are provided along with methods for applying the coating. The hydrogel layer can include a first polymer species comprising polyethylene glycol (PEG) and a second polymer species. Examples of the second polymer species include PEG and polyacrylamide (PAM). The first and second species can be at least partially cross-linked. Methods for forming the hydrogel coatings on the medical devices are provided including nucleophilic conjugate reactions, such as Click reactions.