Contact Lens Exams

Contact lenses are an effective alternative to eyeglasses. Not all patients use contact lenses as their primary form of vision correction. Each patient is different, with some wearing contact lenses only on weekends, for special occasions, or during sports. Contact lenses offer flexibility to match each patient’s lifestyle.

If you choose contact lenses, proper fit, comfort, and hygiene are essential. A contact lens exam includes a comprehensive eye exam, vision prescription, and measurements to ensure a proper fit.

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The Importance of a Comprehensive Eye Exam

Regular eye exams help keep your eyes healthy and detect early signs of eye conditions. A comprehensive eye exam at ProCare Vision Center evaluates your eye health and vision quality. During this exam, the eye doctor will determine your prescription for eyeglasses. However, this prescription alone is not sufficient for contact lenses. The doctor may also check for issues that could affect contact lens comfort and success.

Hard-to-Fit Contact Lens Patients

Even if another provider has told you that you can't wear contact lenses, we may be able to help. Specialty contacts are available for patients with dry eyes, severe astigmatism, and more.

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The Contact Lens Consultation

Advances in contact lenses continue to improve comfort and convenience. An early step in your consultation is discussing lifestyle and health factors that influence the best lens type for you.

Options include daily or monthly lenses, as well as soft or rigid gas permeable (GP) lenses. If you have conditions such as astigmatism or dry eye, your doctor will recommend lenses that support comfort and clear vision.

Let your doctor know if you’re interested in colored contact lenses. If you are over 40 and have difficulty seeing small print, your doctor may recommend multifocal or monovision lenses.

Contact Lens Fitting

Contact lenses require a customized fit. Your eye doctor will need to take some measurements to fit your contact lenses properly. Contact lenses that do not fit properly could cause discomfort, blurry vision, or even damage the eye. Here are some of the measurements your eye doctor will take for a contact lens fitting:

Corneal Curvature

To match the lens to your eye, your doctor measures the curvature of the cornea. A keratometer measures corneal curvature to determine the right lens fit. If you have astigmatism, your doctor may fit toric lenses designed to provide clear vision and proper alignment. In some cases, your doctor may use corneal topography to map the surface in greater detail.

Pupil or Iris Size

Your doctor may measure your pupil or iris using a slit lamp or other tools. This measurement is especially important if you are considering specialized lenses, such as gas permeable (GP) contacts.

Tear Film Evaluation

One of the most common problems affecting contact lens wear is dry eyes. If the lenses are not kept adequately hydrated and moist, they will become uncomfortable, and your eyes will feel dry, irritated, and itchy. If you have dry eye syndrome, your doctor will check that your tear film supports lens comfort. Otherwise, contact lenses may not be a suitable option.

During a tear film evaluation, the doctor uses dye or test strips to measure tear production and quality. If your tear film is weak, your doctor may recommend lenses that retain moisture better.

Contact Lens Trial and Prescription

After selecting lenses, your doctor may have you try them to confirm fit and comfort before ordering. The doctor or assistant inserts the lenses, then checks fit, movement, and tear response after 15 to 20 minutes. If the lenses fit well, your doctor will order them for you. Your eye doctor will provide care and hygiene instructions, including how to insert, remove, wear, and store your lenses.

Contact Lens Follow-Up Care

Your doctor may schedule a follow-up to check lens fit and how your eyes are adjusting. If you are experiencing discomfort or dryness in your eyes, you should visit your eye doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may recommend a different lens, solution, or wearing schedule.

Contact us today to schedule your contact lens exam and fitting.