Contact Lens Exams and Fittings
Contact lenses are a great alternative to wearing eyeglasses. Not all patients use contact lenses as their primary vision correction. Some patients wear contact lenses only on weekends, special occasions, or for sports. Contact lenses offer flexibility based on individual lifestyle needs.
Proper fit and understanding of contact lens safety and hygiene are essential for successful wear. A contact lens exam includes a comprehensive eye exam, prescription assessment, and measurements to determine proper lens fit.
The Importance of a Comprehensive Eye Exam
Regular eye exams help maintain eye health and detect developing conditions early. A comprehensive eye exam at Optique Family Vision Care evaluates eye health and vision quality. During this exam, the eye doctor determines your eyeglass prescription, but this alone is not sufficient for contact lenses. The doctor may also check for any eye health issues that could interfere with the comfort and success of contact lens wear.
The Contact Lens Consultation
Contact lens technology continues to improve comfort and accessibility. An initial step in the consultation is discussing lifestyle and health factors that affect lens selection.
Options include daily or monthly disposable lenses, as well as soft or rigid gas permeable (GP) lenses. If you have conditions such as astigmatism or dry eye, your eye doctor may recommend specific lens types or brands.
Inform your eye doctor if you are interested in colored contact lenses. Patients over 40 who have difficulty seeing small print may benefit from multifocal or monovision lenses.
Contact Lens Fitting
Contact lenses require individualized fitting. Your eye doctor will need to take some measurements to properly fit your contact lenses. Contact lenses that do not fit properly can cause discomfort, blurry vision, or eye damage. Here are some of the measurements your eye doctor will take for a contact lens fitting:
Corneal Curvature
To ensure proper fit, your doctor measures the curvature of your cornea. A keratometer measures corneal curvature to determine the appropriate lens fit. If you have astigmatism, the curvature of your cornea is not perfectly round. Therefore, a “toric” lens, designed specifically for an eye with astigmatism, would be best suited to provide the best vision and lens fit. In some cases, your eye doctor may use corneal topography to map the surface of your cornea in detail.
Pupil or Iris Size
Your eye doctor may measure the size of the pupil or iris using a biomicroscope, slit lamp, or manual tools. This measurement is especially important if you are considering gas permeable (GP) lenses.
Tear Film Evaluation
Dry eye is a common issue for contact lens wearers. If lenses are not kept hydrated, they can become uncomfortable and cause dry, irritated, or itchy eyes. If you have dry eye syndrome, your doctor will assess your tear film to determine if contact lenses are suitable.
The doctor evaluates your tear film by applying a dye and examining your tears with a slit lamp or a test strip. If your tear film is weak, your eye doctor may recommend lenses designed to retain moisture.
Contact Lens Trial and Prescription
After selecting lenses, the eye doctor may have you try them to confirm fit and comfort before ordering. The doctor or assistant inserts the lenses and evaluates fit, movement, and tear response after 15–20 minutes. If the lenses fit properly, your eye doctor will order them. Your eye doctor will also provide care instructions, including how to insert, remove, wear, and store your lenses.
Follow-up
Your eye doctor may request a follow-up appointment to confirm proper fit and eye adaptation. If you experience discomfort or dryness, you should visit your eye doctor as soon as possible. Your eye doctor may decide to try a different lens, a different contact lens disinfecting solution, or an adjustment to your wearing schedule.
Contact us today to schedule your contact lens exam and fitting.