If you or a family member are considering contact lenses for your vision correction, it’s essential to start with a comprehensive contact lens exam. Unlike a standard eye exam, a contact lens exam evaluates your eye health and determines the best lenses for your unique needs. Whether you're new to contacts or switching from glasses, understanding the process will help ensure comfort, clarity, and long-term eye care.
Below, our Coral Springs eye care team at Eyesite Vision Center discusses why you need a contact lens exam, what to expect from this exam, and more.
Why You Need a Contact Lens Exam
A thorough contact lens exam is crucial to find the right fit to ensure visual clarity and comfort every day. Because your contact lenses rest directly on your eye, a poor fit puts you at increased risk of long-term irritation and infection. During your appointment, your eye doctor for contact lenses will assess your prescription, measure your eye shape, and check for any underlying conditions that might affect lens wear. Once this is all done, our eye care team should have an accurate idea of which lenses will fit you best and provide the clearest, most comfortable vision.
The Contact Lens Exam Process
A contact lens exam includes the following steps:
- Prescription Check: The doctor will determine your correct prescription for clear, sharp vision.
- Corneal Measurements: Using advanced technology, your eye’s curvature is measured to ensure a proper lens fit.
- Tear Film Evaluation: This test checks if your eyes produce enough moisture for comfortable lens wear.
- Trial Lenses: You'll likely try a pair of contacts to see how they feel and ensure a good fit.
- Follow-Up: Your doctor may schedule a follow-up to make adjustments or address any concerns.
What Should I Know Before Buying Contact Lenses?
If you're wondering, "What should I know before buying contact lenses?", there are several key factors to consider:
- Prescription Accuracy – Contact lens prescriptions differ from eyeglass prescriptions. A proper exam ensures you get the correct fit and vision correction.
- Types of Lenses – There are daily, bi-weekly, and monthly disposables, as well as specialty lenses for conditions like astigmatism or dry eyes.
- Eye Health Considerations – Some individuals may need specific lenses for conditions like dry eye syndrome or allergies.
- Lifestyle Factors – Your daily routine influences the best lens choice. Active individuals may prefer daily disposables, while those looking for cost-effective options may choose monthly lenses.
How to Put Contact Lenses in Easily
One of the biggest challenges for new wearers is learning how to put contact lenses in easily. Here are some simple steps to help:
- Wash Your Hands – Always start with clean, dry hands to avoid introducing bacteria.
- Use a Mirror and Good Lighting – Position yourself in a well-lit area with a mirror to see what you're doing.
- Place the Lens on Your Fingertip – Ensure the lens is not inside out by checking for a bowl shape.
- Hold Your Eyelids Open – Use one hand to hold your upper lid and another to pull down your lower lid.
- Gently Insert the Lens – Look slightly upward and place the lens on your eye, then blink a few times to settle it.
Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Today
A professional eye exam is the best way to ensure safe, comfortable contact lens wear. Whether you're new to contacts or need a prescription update, scheduling an appointment with a trusted eye doctor for contact lenses is the first step toward clear, comfortable vision.